Medicine as a New Undergraduate Degree: Motivations, Challenges and Expectations

ABSTRACT

There is, especially in Brazil, a lack of papers about people’s reasons for opting to study medicine after graduating in other areas. The aim of this study was to understand the reasons that lead a professional to embark on a new course, specifically medicine, the difficulties involved and professional expectations. A cross-sectional study with medical students already graduated in other areas, using a structured self-administered form with open-ended and closed-ended questions. Descriptive analysis of quantitative data and content analysis of qualitative data were performed. Of the 110 graduates enrolled during the studied period, 49% took part in the research. The predominant age was 29 to 33 years. Graduates enter the medical course in pursuit of greater personal and professional valuation not achieved with their first qualification, including, especially, better remuneration and employability. Although completing a higher education course brings benefits when starting a second one, there are also difficulties since many of the graduates have already established a family or need to work. In relation to expectations, despite the desire to achieve financial independence, specialization in medicine is usually the goal.

Students, Medical; Career Choice; Medical Education