Motivations to obtain a PhD abroad and return upon completion, Experiences from Hué, Vietnam

Abstract

While developing countries increasingly seek to have their students study overseas, Western economies also see the advantage in attracting international students, as they hold several for institutions and countries. Individuals from diverse backgrounds prioritize motivations for international student mobility differently according to the economic situation, culture and education opportunities meaning that research on mobility cannot be separated from the sociocultural context in which it takes place. Not only does the country of origin differentiate the students’ orientation, but also the decisions on whether to return home. This research has a special focus on Vietnam, where education has always played a central role in the culture and society. The goal is to provide an in-depth understanding of the motivations of the individual Vietnamese university lecturer to obtain a PhD abroad and return upon completion, as well as how these motivations are influenced. In addition, the personal and professional impacts on the lives of the individuals were examined. The research relies on an in-depth analysis of the stories of individuals and is qualitative in nature. The findings will be used to encourage and direct future research on the topic and to initiate the discussion of potential solutions to problems in relation to international student mobility. Information from this research can help institutional leaders to set priorities more effectively, design effective policy responses, and to create further guidelines and principles in future development projects involving international student mobility.