ASTARINA, AFRI and Satria, Benni and Murni, Dewi (2026) STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF THE ROLE OF ENGLISH IN DETERMINING THEIR CURRENT MAJORS AND CAREERS. S1 thesis, Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji.

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Abstract

This study aims to explore students’ perceptions of the role of English in determining their current choice of degree programme and future careers amongst second-semester students on the English Language Education programme at Raja Ali Haji Maritime University. The study is motivated by the importance of English as an international language that plays a key role in the worlds of education and work. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five participants selected using purposive sampling, supplemented by a questionnaire distributed to 35 second-semester students. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis, whilst questionnaire data were analysed descriptively to support the interview findings. The research findings indicate that students hold a positive perception of the role of English in determining their degree programme and preparing for their future careers. The research findings identified five main themes, namely: (1) English is one of the factors influencing the choice of the English Language Education programme as it is considered important for academic and career prospects; (2) English is perceived as a vital asset that supports career readiness and enhances competitiveness in the workplace; (3) personal experiences, such as work experience and observing the needs of the workplace, shape students’ positive perceptions of the importance of English; (4) students face various obstacles in learning English, particularly regarding vocabulary, grammar, tenses and speaking skills, yet they believe these obstacles can be overcome through consistent practice; and (5) English is viewed as a professional competence that supports career development, broadens employment opportunities and enhances readiness to meet the demands of the global workplace. Based on these research findings, it can be concluded that students hold a positive perception of the role of English in determining their future degree programmes and careers. This perception encourages students to continue improving their English language skills as a foundation for tackling academic, professional and workplace challenges in the era of globalisation.

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