Career Decision Self-Efficacy Among Cybersecurity Students: Predictors and Interventions

What Did This Cybersecurity Research Find?

This cybersecurity career development study measured career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) in 800 cybersecurity students and tested interventions to improve it. Cybersecurity students with hands-on internship or lab experience scored 28% higher on CDSE measures than classroom-only students, and a 4-week career exploration intervention (including informational interviews and job shadowing) increased CDSE scores by 22% in a controlled trial.

Key Findings

• 1Students with internship or lab experience had 28% higher career decision self-efficacy
• 2A 4-week career exploration intervention increased CDSE by 22%
• 3Informational interviews with security professionals were rated the most valuable intervention component
• 4Job shadowing in SOC environments increased CDSE for hands-on role interest by 31%
• 5Low CDSE at program entry predicted 2.1x higher program dropout rates

How Does This Apply to Cybersecurity Careers?

Students uncertain about their career direction can pursue specific activities that build decision confidence. Career services offices can implement evidence-based interventions for cybersecurity students.

Who Should Read This?

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