DROPOUT IN HIGHER EDUCATION

CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES IN THE PERCEPTION OF MANAGERS OF EXACT SCIENCES PROGRAMS

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges and management strategies adopted by the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) to address student dropout in Exact Sciences programs, from the perspective of managers and former managers (department heads and program coordinators). Interviews were conducted with eight professionals from the Physics, Mathematics, Meteorology, and Chemistry programs, focusing on identifying the causes of dropout and evaluating institutional actions aimed at student retention. Among the main factors identified are students’ socioeconomic vulnerability, the high cost of living in Florianópolis, the complexity of the courses, gaps in prior education, facilitated admission policies, the devaluation of the teaching profession, mental health challenges, and the absence of integrated institutional policies. Despite initiatives such as PIAPE, tutoring programs, scholarships, psychological support services, and mentoring actions, the interviewees perceive these measures as isolated and characterized by low participation rates. The results indicate the urgent need for long-term strategic planning, with multisectoral actions, systematic student monitoring, greater faculty sensitivity, and the strengthening of pedagogical and psychological support policies. The study contributes to the debate on student retention in higher education and provides guidance for improvements in university management.