Abstract

The study sought relationship between self-concept and attitude to course of study in relation to academic achievement among students in tertiary institutions in Katsina state, Nigeria. Questions raised lead to the generation of hypotheses like self-concept was not significantly related to academic performance and that self-concept was not a better predictor of academic performance than attitude to course of study. The study utilized the correlational survey designed using APDI, ACS and AA instruments to collect data that was analyzed using Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient and regression analyses. With p-values of .000, hypotheses 1 – 3 were not accepted respectively. But, a β = .070, t = 24.203, p < .05 lead to the conclusion that attitude to course of study is a better predictor of academic achievement. Among recommendations made were that counsellors, and parents should employ means of motivating students to develop more positive attitudes towards what they learn for the maximum achievement of their educational aspirations. Tertiary institutions should help students to develop more positive self-concept through appropriate counselling measures as this will greatly help in easing whatever academic, personal-social or/and career challenge(s) that they may face in the course of their studies.