This study surveys the current situation of English learning among non-major undergraduates at Thanh Hoa University of Culture, Sports and Tourism (TUCST) – a local university, aiming to identify key barriers and suggest solutions to enhance their language proficiency. A cross-sectional descriptive study with a self-report questionnaire was used to collect data from over three hundred full-time students. The data were processed using descriptive statistics and Pareto analysis to identify priority causes. The results show that most students are aware of the importance of English; however, their performance is is generally at an average level, with scores are around the 5–7 point. Listening and speaking skills are weaker than reading and writing skills. Self-study activities are irregular and of low duration, and participation in additional courses is limited. Learning materials are heavily dependent on internal textbooks. The survey identifies several objective and subjective factors that affect students' learning outcomes. Based on these findings, the study proposes recommendations for undergraduates, lecturers, and TUCST.