Conference PaperThe Impact of a Targeted Scholarship Program on Cybersecurity Career Development: An Analysis Through the Lens of Social Cognitive Career Theory and Career IdentityPusey, Portia; Kaleem, Faisal; Swanson, KyleThe demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to outpace supply, necessitating effective educational and workforce development programs. This exploratory study analyzes the influence of a scholarship and support activities on participants' career development through the theoretical frameworks of Social Cognitive Career Theory and career identity literature. Findings suggest that the Metropolitan State University Cyber Defenders Program bolstered participants' self-efficacy beliefs related to their academic and career pursuits, fostered positive outcome expectations regarding cybersecurity careers, and strengthened their career goals and engagement. The scholarship itself and peer interactions emerged as key supports. While overall results are positive, areas concerning perceptions of diversity within the field and the ease of finding employment warrant further exploration.IEEE CARS 20252025-10-2910648337https://doi.org/2030663National Science Foundation