The opinion of Master’s degree graduates in Public Health, Warsaw Medical University on their career path plans

Abstract

Introduction. Although statistical data demonstrate a systematic decrease in the interest in Public Health among student applicants, growth in the importance of public health professionals in the health system is increasingly recognised. Master’s degree graduates in Public Health, Warsaw Medical University have a broad spectrum of possibilities when choosing their career path. The present study aimed to analyse plans for further education and career path among Master’s degree graduates from the Public Health Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, Warsaw Medical University.

Materials and methods. The study involved 86 graduates (women constituted 83% of all) from the second-cycle degree programme in Public Health at the Public Health Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, Warsaw Medical University. The study enrolled second-cycle degree students who graduated in the academic year 2015–2016. Mean age of the study population amounted to 26.88 years (min. 24; max. 52; SD 4.540). The study used a questionnaire developed by the authors at the Department of Teaching and Education Outcomes, Faculty of Health Sciences, Warsaw Medical University, based on the list of educational outcomes adopted by the resolution of Warsaw Medical University Senate. Students filled in the questionnaire after graduation while receiving the certificate evidencing completion of the programme in the Dean’s Office

Results. Most respondents graduated from the second-cycle degree programme in Public Health (n = 67.78%) specialising in Management (n = 49.57%). Over 80% of graduates did not intend to commence a third-cycle degree programme (doctoral course). Most study participants worked during their studies (n = 61.71%) and their job was related to the area of public health (n = 37.43%). Graduates saw themselves in a job that is consistent with their major (n = 60.70%), in public sector (n = 33.38%) and in managerial positions (n = 23, 27%).

Conclusions.
1. There is a need to show students as early as during their educational cycle a wide range of employment options they have after graduation, for instance by recommending summer internship places.
2. A summer internship database for students should be developed at Warsaw Medical University in order to help Public Health students enter the health system.