TITLE:
Determinants of Entrepreneurial Intention among Young Graduates in Saudi Arabia: A Theory of Planned Behavior Approach
AUTHORS:
Wafa Mbarek
KEYWORDS:
Entrepreneurial Intention, Theory of Planned Behavior, University of Hail, Personal Attitude, Perceived Behavioral Control, Subjective Norms, Saudi Arabia, Gender Differences
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Industrial and Business Management,
Vol.16 No.11,
November
4,
2026
ABSTRACT: This study examines the determinants of entrepreneurial intention among 144 Master’s students enrolled in Economics, Management, and Business Administration at the University of Hail, Saudi Arabia, using the Theory of Planned Behavior. Survey data were analyzed using correlations and multiple regression models. Personal attitude and perceived behavioral control were positively associated with entrepreneurial intention, whereas subjective norms were not a statistically significant predictor in the reported regression. Perceived behavioral control was also positively associated with personal attitude. Although these associations are consistent with a possible indirect pathway, a formal mediation test is required to establish an indirect effect. The study highlights the potential importance of entrepreneurial attitudes and perceived feasibility in graduate entrepreneurship education. Its single-university, nonprobability sample limits generalization to other universities or populations.