AN ANALYSIS OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEEDS AMONG CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS: BASIS FOR CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

The purpose of this study was to analyze the English language needs of Criminology students, with a focused emphasis on their macro skills. Conducted at Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology, the study employed a needs analysis framework combining quantitative and qualitative data collection through a 60-item questionnaire and follow-up interviews with selected students. The objective was to assess the current level of speaking proficiency, explore students’ challenges and insights regarding oral communication, and propose a relevant English for Specific Purposes (ESP) syllabus. Findings revealed that speaking was the most challenging skill among the four macro language areas, with many students exhibiting low confidence, limited fluency, and difficulty adapting speech to academic and professional contexts. The results emphasized the urgent need for a context-based language program that integrates role-playing, simulations, and real-life communication tasks aligned with the criminology field. This study highlights the importance of addressing speaking skills development to ensure Criminology students are equipped with the communicative competence necessary for future law enforcement and legal professions. Keywords: Criminology Students, English Language Skills, Speaking Proficiency, ESP Syllabus, Needs Analysis