Bridging the Gap: How a Brief Intervention Narrowed Equity Gaps in Graduate School Knowledge
Abstract
College students majoring in psychology often lack knowledge concerning the amount of education required for their desired career goals. For example, many psychology majors do not realize the necessity of attending graduate school to pursue certain careers. The current study sought to assess the effectiveness of a brief intervention designed to increase knowledge about post-baccalaureate education and careers in psychology and other related fields. Forty-eight psychology undergraduate students attended a graduate school information session in the Spring of 2023. During the session they received information about various graduate degrees in psychology and how to prepare application materials. All students completed a knowledge test and career decision-making scale before and after the session. Results showed a significant increase in knowledge about graduate school and career self-efficacy after the session. The session was especially beneficial in reducing knowledge equity gaps based on racial identity and generation status. These findings underscore the potential of brief, cost-effective interventions to enhance career readiness. Educational institutions, especially those who primarily serve students from underrepresented backgrounds, should consider implementing similar programs to support students pursuing careers in psychology or related fields that require post-baccalaureate education.
Keywords
psychology students, career preparation, graduate school
Bridging the Gap: How a Brief Intervention Narrowed Equity Gaps in Graduate School Knowledge
CASB 103
College students majoring in psychology often lack knowledge concerning the amount of education required for their desired career goals. For example, many psychology majors do not realize the necessity of attending graduate school to pursue certain careers. The current study sought to assess the effectiveness of a brief intervention designed to increase knowledge about post-baccalaureate education and careers in psychology and other related fields. Forty-eight psychology undergraduate students attended a graduate school information session in the Spring of 2023. During the session they received information about various graduate degrees in psychology and how to prepare application materials. All students completed a knowledge test and career decision-making scale before and after the session. Results showed a significant increase in knowledge about graduate school and career self-efficacy after the session. The session was especially beneficial in reducing knowledge equity gaps based on racial identity and generation status. These findings underscore the potential of brief, cost-effective interventions to enhance career readiness. Educational institutions, especially those who primarily serve students from underrepresented backgrounds, should consider implementing similar programs to support students pursuing careers in psychology or related fields that require post-baccalaureate education.