ESP Needs-Analysis-Based Syllabus for Islamic Banking Study Program: Key Principles and Model
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This study aimed to investigated the English language needs of students in an Islamic Banking study program as a basis for designing an English for Specific Purposes (ESP) syllabus that is relevant to academic and professional demands. Employing a needs analysis framework, the study adopted a qualitative descriptive approach supported by quantitative data. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to Islamic Banking students, semi-structured interviews with English lecturers and Islamic banking practitioners, and document analysis of the existing curriculum and course syllabi. The findings revealed that students require English primarily for understanding Islamic banking terminology, reading academic and professional texts, communicating with clients and colleagues, delivering presentations, and preparing written reports in Islamic financial contexts. Among the four language skills, reading and speaking are identified as the most critical, followed by writing and listening. The results also indicated a mismatch between the current General English–oriented syllabus and students’ actual target needs. Based on these findings, the study proposes an ESP syllabus model that integrates Islamic banking content, communicative tasks, and skill-based instruction aligned with workplace practices. This needs-analysis-based syllabus is expected to enhance learning relevance, student motivation, and graduate readiness for the Islamic banking industry.
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