Why do women pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science?

Abstract

Context: Computer science, even now, attracts a small number of women, and the proportion of women in the field decreases through advancing career stages. Consequently, few women progress to Ph.D. studies in computer science after completing master's studies. Empowering women at this stage in their careers is essential, not just for equality reasons, but to unlock untapped potential for society, industry and academia. Objective: This paper aims to identify students’ career assumptions and information related to Ph.D. studies focused on gender-based differences. We propose a program to inform female master students about Ph.D. studies that explains the process, clarifies misconceptions, and alleviates concerns. Method: An extensive survey was conducted to identify factors that encourage and discourage students from undertaking Ph.D. studies. The analysis identified statistically significant differences between those who undertook Ph.D. studies and those who did not, as well as statistically significant gender differences. A catalogue of questions to initiate discussions with potential Ph.D. students which allowed them to explore these factors was developed. These were structured into a Women's Career Lunch program where students can explore and discuss the benefits of Ph.D. study. Results: Encouraging factors towards Ph.D. study include interest and confidence in research arising from a research involvement during earlier studies; enthusiasm for and self-confidence in computer science in addition to an interest in an academic career; encouragement from external sources; and a positive perception towards Ph.D. studies which can involve achieving personal goals. Discouraging factors include uncertainty and lack of knowledge of the Ph.D. process, a perception of lower job flexibility, and the requirement for long-term commitment. Gender differences highlighted that female students who pursue a Ph.D. have less confidence in their technical skills than males but a higher preference for interdisciplinary areas. Female students are less inclined than males to perceive the industry as offering better job opportunities and more flexible career paths than academia. Conclusions: The insights collected from the survey facilitated the development of a questions catalogue structured into the Women Career Lunch program to help students make a more informed decision concerning whether they should pursue a Ph.D. in computer science. Localised versions of this program, in 8 languages, were created to support its adoption in different countries and assist in mitigating the female under-representation challenge.