BS Psychology Shifters: A Study on Academic Adjustment and Motivations at a Private College in Iloilo

Background: Students who change degree programmes may need to negotiate differences in academic expectations, social relationships and personal goals. Aims: To explore the academic adjustment experiences and reasons for shifting among students enrolled in the BS Psychology programme at a private college in Iloilo City. Study Design: A qualitative descriptive research design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, involving BS Psychology students who had shifted from another academic programme at the same institution. Data were collected through face-to-face or online interviews, depending on participants’ preferences. Interviews were conducted after institutional permission and ethical clearance had been obtained. Methodology: Purposive sampling was used to select participants who shifted from one academic programme to BS Psychology at the same institution. Seven (7) students participated in individual semi-structured interviews conducted in English, Filipino, or Hiligaynon. Results: The findings revealed seven (7) major themes: (1) Academic Programme Motivations; (2) Personal Career Influences; (3) Personal Agency; (4) Psychological Development; (5) Academic Social Adaptation; (6) Social Adjustment; and (7) Emotional Well-Being. Conclusion: Shifting to BS Psychology was influenced by students’ desire to pursue a programme that better aligned with their interests, motivations, and future aspirations. Although the transition presented academic and social challenges, participants described experiences of adjustment, personal development, and renewed motivation. These findings highlight the importance of understanding students’ reasons for shifting and providing appropriate academic and social support to facilitate their adjustment to a new programme.