Exploring research competency, self-efficacy and attitudes toward research among nursing students at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in 2025

Objective: To describe research self-efficacy, competency, and attitudes toward research among third- and fourth-year nursing students at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in 2025, with the goal of informing strategies to enhance research capacity in nursing education. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 220 nursing students who had completed a scientific research course. Validated scales measuring research self-efficacy, research competency, and attitudes toward research were administered via an online survey. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and path analysis were used to examine relationships among variables. Results: Students demonstrated good research self-efficacy (Mean = 3.43 ± 0.84) and positive attitudes toward research (Mean = 2.81 ± 0.91), while research competency remained moderate (Mean = 3.15 ± 0.70). Moderate correlations were observed between writing/evaluating research papers and attitude components (r = 0.291, p < .001). Path analysis confirmed that self-efficacy significantly mediates the relationship between research attitudes and competency (β = 0.710, p < .001), underscoring its predictive value. Conclusions: Despite positive attitudes and confidence, students lacked strong practical skills. Targeted educational interventions-such as mentorship, hands-on training, and curriculum integration-are recommended to bridge the gap between perceived ability and actual research competency, ultimately preparing students for evidence-based nursing practice.