MOTIVATING FACTORS INFLUENCING THE SHIFTING OF PROGRAMS AMONG FORMER MARINE TRANSPORTATION STUDENTS

Abstract

Program shifting in maritime education is a growing concern, driven by complex academic, economic, and psychological challenges. This study aimed to determine the motivating factors influencing former first-year Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) students at the Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) to shift to other degree programs during Academic Years 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. Utilizing a quantitative-descriptive design anchored in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), data were collected via a validated structured survey from 50 purposively sampled former BSMT students. The analysis employed frequency distribution, weighted mean, and Kruskal-Wallis/Mann-Whitney tests to evaluate demographic profiles and the psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The demographic data revealed that shifting students are predominantly 20-to-22-year-old, first-born males (92%) from lower-middle-income urban families (74%). While autonomy and competence were acknowledged as significant motivators, the need for relatedness—specifically, the value of relationships within the program (M = 4.26)—emerged as the strongest psychological catalyst for attrition. Furthermore, while the fundamental need for autonomy and competence remained universal across demographics, significant differences in relatedness were observed based on gender ( p = .026 ) and birth order ( p = .041 ), highlighting distinct socialization and support needs among these groups. Ultimately, the decision to abandon the maritime track is primarily catalyzed by unmet interpersonal and social needs rather than solely academic or financial pressures. To effectively mitigate student attrition, maritime institutions must implement targeted, evidence-based career guidance models that prioritize peer support, mentorship, and deep psychological integration.

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