Localizing Global Trends: Examining Regional Influences on Student Choices and Diversity at Regional Public Universities

Regional public universities expand equitable access but may concentrate enrolment among nearby populations. This study analyzed the impacts of spatial accessibility, social influence, institutional attributes, global priorities, campus diversity, student choice and advocacy in regional public universities of Bangladesh. The number of respondents in a cross-sectional multi-site survey was 710, and the coverage of sites and academic fields was equal. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, Pearson correlations, multivariable ordinary least-squares models, and content analysis were used. The students' reason for enrolling was mostly proximity to home (41.27%), and the lowest was their current university (10.28%). Students appreciated diversity and international educational trends, but evidenced lower levels of inclusion and institutional integration. The constructs of academic and institutional pull and local–global alignment predicted commitment to choice, and inclusion satisfaction and choice strength predicted recommendation. To enhance diversity, institutional attractiveness and student advocacy, a combination of open enrolment and supporting a diverse group of students, seen in the academic programmes, the digital and research capacity of regional universities, their engagement with the world and their preparation for employment is required.