Criminology Internship Experiences in Relation To Self-Efficacy and Career Readiness

Abstract

The development of professional competencies, self-efficacy, and career readiness is a critical aspect of preparing criminology students for the workforce. This study examined the relationship between internship experiences, self-efficacy, and career readiness among Bachelor of Science in Criminology students from two tertiary schools in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, with 120 interns who completed their internship during the 2024–2025 academic year serving as respondents. Data were collected through validated researcher-developed questionnaires measuring internship experiences, self-efficacy, and career readiness, and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Findings revealed that internship experiences were generally high, with interns reporting meaningful tasks, supportive supervision, ample learning opportunities, and high perceived value. Self-efficacy was also rated high, encompassing task-specific confidence, problem-solving confidence, and learning self-efficacy. Career readiness was similarly high, with strong ratings in professionalism and work ethic, teamwork and collaboration, leadership and initiative, and career management. Correlation analysis indicated very strong, positive, and statistically significant relationships between internship experiences, self-efficacy, and career readiness.