Abstract
Background: The pharmacy education system in South Korea has changed from four-year degree program to two-year pre-pharmacy program plus four-year professional degree program (a total of six years) since 2009. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess final year student's satisfaction on this new pharmacy education system and to explore factors related to student satisfaction. Methods: A paper-and-pencil survey instrument was administered to all final year pharmacy students at four universities located in South Korea during September of 2014. The self-administered questionnaire contained 39 items. In part 1, the quality of education with regards to school utilities, education system, human resources, and communication domains were measured. In part 2, overall satisfactions with the new education system were asked to students. Responses were recorded on a seven point Likert scale. Results: A total of 207 students were participated in this study. Students showed low satisfaction on school utilities and standardization of education while they displayed high level of satisfaction on the quality of the faculty members and preceptors at clerkship sites. Factor analysis showed that education service was the most significant factor that affects students' satisfaction followed by facilities, standardized education, communication, administration, pharmacy practice (p<0.05). Conclusion: The qualification of faculty and preceptors ranked number one in students' satisfaction and it was the most significant factor. School facilities were found to be the second most significant factor in students' satisfaction while students displayed poor satisfaction. The study results might need to be reflected in future education planning to improve students' satisfaction.