Abstract/Summary

In the context of globalization and the increasing need for language learners to develop language skills for specific purposes, this paper considers students' motivations to learn, in relation to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Drawing on data collected via an on-line survey of 112 undergraduate and graduate students undertaking ESP/FS courses at a University in Kazakhstan, this paper suggests that factors connected to employability and future professional careers were highly relevant in explaining the respondents' high levels of language learning motivation. However, whilst students were very motivated to learn ESP/FS, the quality of course content, curriculum design, as well as the expertise of the teachers, were also very relevant in explaining extrinsic motivation. In developing language learning further it will be important to make explicit the value of programmes of this type so as to ensure that all levels of language learners are motivated to learn