Graduate Studies as Part of a Career Path for Saskatchewan Pharmacy Students

Abstract

Undergraduate pharmacy students at the University of Saskatchewan were surveyed to assess their interest in graduate training and the potential factors influencing the decision to pursue further studies. Approximately 275 copies of the survey were distributed to students across all four years of the undergraduate pharmacy program, with 191 questionnaires completed and returned (response rate of 69.5%). Nearly 90% of respondents were satisfied with their decision to study pharmacy, although many were looking forward to completing their education. Approximately two-thirds had not considered graduate studies in a pharmacy-related field. Several reasons for this were given by each student, with the time required for further study being the main drawback. Desire for patient contact and to practice as a pharmacist were also common reasons, suggesting that students may assume undertaking graduate studies automatically leads to laboratory work. Responding students tended to overestimate program costs and saw less demand for pharmacists with advanced training.