The professional socialisation of the University of Malta accountancy students : a survey

Abstract

Professional socialisation is defined as being a subconscious process whereby individuals internalise behavioural norms and standards and develop a sense of identity and commitment towards a profession. Students transform into professionals who understand deeply the values, attitudes, and behaviours of the profession. The success of professional socialisation is achieved through a continuous life-long process of formal and informal interactions with professionals and educators during students' education, where one learns the knowledge, skills, rules, norms and values which are particular to the profession. Therefore, an understanding of such process is important for higher education in order to achieve its goals. This dissertation seeks to identify, understand and evaluate the various factors that influence the professional socialisation process of the University of Malta accountancy students. It also applies two popular models: Cohen Model of the Professional Socialisation Process (1981); and Weidman, Twale and Stein Graduate Socialisation Framework (2001), in order to evaluate to what extent accountancy students are being professionally socialised in relation to such models. Furthermore, this study illustrates the conclusions reached and includes possible recommendations that could enhance the professional socialisation process of the University of Malta accountancy students.