Majoring in information systems: Examining the factors affecting student choice

Despite the increasing demand for information technology professionals in the job market, the number of undergraduates pursuing information systems (IS) degrees is declining. To improve student recruitment, it is important to understand the mechanisms by which students choose to pursue an IS major. This study focuses on the socio-cognitive factors that promote or inhibit the development of student choice behaviors specific to the IS major. The study utilizes Social Cognitive Career Theory and serves two important purposes. First, it develops valid and reliable measures specific to the IS context via a rigorous instrument development process. Second, it empirically tests a research model that can explain and predict student choice behaviors. The findings suggest that the instruments exhibit excellent levels of reliability and validity. Computer self efficacy, outcome expectations, and student interest in IS were found to independently and cumulatively shape aspirations to choose the IS major. The findings and implications are discussed.