Relationship Between Students’ Perceptions of Doctoral Value and Satisfaction with University Services in Kenyan Universities in the Post–COVID-19 Era

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between doctoral students’ perceptions of the value of their programmes and their satisfaction with university services in selected Kenyan universities in the post–COVID-19 era. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 63 doctoral students using a structured questionnaire. Perceived doctoral value was measured using a modified multidimensional value scale, while satisfaction with university services was assessed using the SERVPERF instrument. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s product–moment correlation and Kendall’s tau-b correlation. The findings revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between perceived doctoral value and satisfaction with university services (r = .264, p < .05). Kendall’s tau-b analysis further confirmed a moderate positive association (τb = .21, p < .05). Students who perceived greater value in their doctoral programmes reported higher satisfaction with the quality, reliability, and responsiveness of university services. The results underscore the importance of strengthening functional, social, and emotional value dimensions within doctoral education to enhance institutional effectiveness and student experience in the post–COVID-19 context.