PharmD students’ perceptions of their education and future career: A cross-sectional study in Batna, Algeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46542/pe.2026.261.291305Keywords:
Algeria, Career perception, PharmD student, Pharmacy education, Student motivation, Teaching methodAbstract
Background: As pharmacy education globally shifts toward patient-centred care, Algeria introduced the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) in 2011 to modernise clinical training. This study explores the perceptions, motivations, and career expectations of PharmD students at the University of Batna 2 in Algeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 407 PharmD students using a 37-item electronic questionnaire. The survey assessed sociodemographics, motivations, satisfaction with pharmacy education, preferred learning and assessment methods, and career aspirations. Descriptive statistics were employed to identify key trends.
Results: The cohort was mainly female (83%), with 85.6% choosing pharmacy after their baccalaureate results, and only 29.5% listing it as their first choice. There was significant dissatisfaction with the theory-practice balance (1.44±0.59/5). Only 34.6% completed an internship, and 35% recommended increasing practical training. Career outlook was pessimistic regarding local employment (1.86±0.82/5), with 63% intending to emigrate, primarily to Germany and Canada. While 75% plan to specialise—mainly in medical biology (30.7%) and industrial pharmacy (23.1%)—community pharmacy was undervalued.
Conclusion: The findings highlight a disconnect between the PharmD curriculum's theory and practical application, with limited clinical exposure and perceived local opportunities contributing to a high "brain drain." Urgent reforms are needed to modernise training, align curricula with workforce needs, and implement policies to retain pharmacy graduates in Algeria's healthcare system.
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