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. 2008 Dec 11:8:59.
doi: 10.1186/1472-6920-8-59.

Determinants of career aspirations of medical students in southern China

LingBing She  1 , BingLi Wu, LiYan Xu, JianYi Wu, PiXian Zhang, EnMin Li
Affiliations
Free PMC article

Determinants of career aspirations of medical students in southern China

LingBing She et al. BMC Med Educ. .
Free PMC article

Abstract

Background: With recent changes in both the Chinese medical system and compensation of medical doctors, the career aspirations of Chinese medical students have become more diverse. Shantou University Medical College has conducted evaluations and instituted programs to enhance student preparedness to enter a variety of medical careers.

Methods: A survey was conducted with 85 students to evaluate medical career aspirations and their association with family background, personal skills, English language proficiency, and interest in biomedical research, which were considered as possible factors affecting their career interest.

Results: Chinese students aspire to traditional as well as nontraditional medical careers. A significant minority of students are now interested in nontraditional careers such as medical teaching or research. However, poor proficiency in the English language and lack of computer skills may limit their academic and career opportunities.

Conclusion: Career aspirations have changed among medical undergraduates. Although many wish to pursue a traditional clinical doctor career, many are interested in research and teaching careers. Factors such as family background, personal characteristics, school mentoring, and extracurricular support may play a role.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Career aspirations of medical students.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Financial conditions of medical students. A. Monthly monetary allowance from family. B. Student monthly allowance by career aspiration.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Scientific characteristics of the students. A. Student interest in basic science by career aspirations. B. Students' laboratory skill classified by career aspiration.
Figure 4
Figure 4
English skill level for medical students, as assessed by the College English Test.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Student computer skills classified by career aspiration.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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