A Study on Students' Perception Towards Professional Courses (CA/CS/CMA) with Reference to Coimbatore City

Abstract Professional courses such as Chartered Accountancy (CA), Company Secretaryship (CS), and Cost and Management Accountancy (CMA) are vital career pathways that offer specialized knowledge and prestigious employment opportunities. Despite their significance, these courses face declining enrolment trends and increased dropout rates, especially among students in semi-urban and urban regions. This study aims to explore the perceptions, motivations, and barriers influencing students' decision-making regarding the pursuit of CA, CS, and CMA courses in Coimbatore City. The research adopts a descriptive design and utilizes a structured questionnaire to gather primary data from higher secondary school and undergraduate students across various educational institutions in Coimbatore. The study examines factors such as awareness levels, perceived difficulty, societal and parental influence, financial constraints, availability of coaching facilities, and career aspirations. Statistical tools such as percentage analysis, chi-square test, and factor analysis are employed to interpret the data and derive meaningful insights. Findings reveal that while students recognize the value and prestige associated with professional courses, a significant proportion are deterred by factors like lengthy course duration, low pass percentages, financial burden, and lack of proper guidance. Additionally, misconceptions about the difficulty level and limited awareness about career scope also act as key deterrents. The study concludes that strategic interventions are needed to enhance awareness, simplify the learning ecosystem, and provide financial and academic support to aspiring students. Career counselling programs, early exposure to professional opportunities, and government-accredited support systems can play a pivotal role in reducing the psychological and logistical barriers faced by students. This research contributes to the understanding of educational preferences in a rapidly developing urban centre and provides insights that can aid policymakers, educational institutions, and professional bodies in making these professional courses more accessible and appealing. Key words: Professional Courses, Student Perception, Career Barriers, CA/CS/CMA, Awareness and Guidance.