Analysis of Curriculum Settings and Attitudes of Teachers and Students in Clinical Pharmacy Majors in Chinese Higher Education Institutions

Wang Xin, Sun Peibei, Jing Shi^*

School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College

Abstract：

Objective This study aims to understand the perspectives of teachers and students on curriculum settings in clinical pharmacy programs in Chinese higher education institutions. Method Using online and offline questionnaires, data were collected from four stakeholder groups: fourth-year clinical pharmacy students, clinical pharmacy students with internship experience, university teachers, and university and departmental administrators. The data were statistically analyzed regarding their views on curriculum design, practical teaching, and career intentions. Result Nearly half of administrators (49.6%) believed that disease-oriented approaches should be the core courses. Current practical teaching is predominantly hospital-based. Regarding the career choice of becoming a clinical pharmacist after graduation, 23% of fourth-year clinical pharmacy students expressed strong intention, whereas only 7.4% of interned students affirmed that they would definitely pursue this career. Conclusion Curriculum design for clinical pharmacy majors must balance discipline-oriented and disease-oriented approaches. Continued efforts are needed to implement educational reforms related to medical competencies, enhance students’ career alignment with the profession, and increase their professional identity.

Key Words：

pharmaceutical education; clinical pharmacy major; curriculum setting; practical teaching; attitudes