Motivations for University of Ilorin Students to Study Mass Communication

Abstract

Journalism and mass communication education play an important role in media development. However, existing studies tend to focus on curriculum and industry needs, often ignoring the views of the students who are at the centre of the learning experience, especially in non-Western contexts. Understanding student motivations is necessary for bridging the gap between academic training and professional aspirations in a changing media landscape.  This study seeks to examine the motivations to study mass communication among 100 level students at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. The study employs a qualitative research approach, using email-based surveys to collect data from 65 first-year students in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Ilorin. Data were analysed using thematic analysis, identifying key patterns in students’ motivations. Findings show that students choose to pursue mass communication due to a combination of factors, including early exposure to journalistic activities and the media, admiration for media personalities, desire to use media for social change, and the recognition of mass communication as an influential and dynamic field. Also, students express a desire to have a voice, inform the public, and contribute to important discussions. Their motivation comes from the belief that media can help shape behaviour, drive social change, and aid in self-expression. The findings from this study can be used to tailor education programmes to meet the needs and ambitions of future mass communicators.