Career intentions and their influencing factors among medical radiography students at the University of Maiduguri

BACKGROUND: Career plays an exceptional and important part in the life of an individual, not only because it determines his or her level of income, but also because it affects his or her personality and perception of life. This study aimed to determine career intentions and influencing factors among medical radiography students. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among all undergraduate radiography students across all five levels at one institution. Data were collected via an online, self-administered questionnaire assessing career preferences, motivations, and influencing factors. RESULTS: Most respondents (91.65%) intended to work as clinical radiographers upon graduation. Ultrasonography (27.9%) was the most preferred career specialty, followed by general radiography (22.8%). Over half (57.6%) changed their specialty preference during their studies. Clinical posting experiences (42%) were the most significant influencing factor. Income potential (35.5%), job satisfaction, and career development were the key motivations. CONCLUSION: Most students have clear career intentions, with ultrasonography as the most preferred career choice. Career choice was strongly influenced by clinical experience and motivated by income potential and job satisfaction. Interest in research and lecturing was low. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Radiography programs should integrate dedicated career lectures and exposure to modalities, starting in the third year, to support career- informed decisions. There’s a need to strengthen the mentor-mentee relationship and allow flexibility of time to students across different specialties during clinical posting.