Characteristics and motivational factors of candidates applying to the Master in Health Professions Education (MHPE) program.

Objective: To determine characteristics and motivational factors of applicants applying for MHPE program at a Public-sector University, Karachi. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study, conducted from September till October 2022, included all 60 applicants of MHPE program at Jinnah Sindh Medical University. The survey questionnaire was administered (google form) and comprised questions seeking demographic information, few questions with options to select and 34 statements to be responded on 5-point scale. One open-ended question asking motivational factor/s. Data was analyzed using SPSS and independent sample Results: 48 participants responded, mean age was 35.8 ± 7.3 years, with predominantly males (81.3%), graduates of medical and dental programs (n = 29), and employed in medical education departments (n = 36). Most of the applicants wanted to join the program to improve their teaching skills, especially psychomotor skills teaching (96%) and educational research [90%]. Majority (64.6%) learned about the program through peers, whereas 29.9% independently chose to pursue the program. Their primary motivation stemmed from their inability to secure admission elsewhere and the belief that minimal effort was needed to acquire the degree (mean score 4.58 ± 0.87 and 4.42 ± 0.94), respectively. For medical and dental graduates, comparable responses emerged, displaying a statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05). However, there was mutual disagreement regarding the program's structure and faculty as motivating factors. Conclusion: Primary motivations to earn an MHPE degree were to improve teaching skills. Motivations to apply to this particular program was the failure to be accepted elsewhere and the perception that minimal efforts were needed to complete this program. The program goals and purpose need to be better propagated along with changes in the admission processes in order to encourage those individuals to apply who are motivated to pursue medical education as a career.