Medical studies at the University of Freiburg in retrospect - study conditions, study quality and skills acquisition from the perspective of graduates.

Background: As part of the MER Method: The surveys were conducted among graduates of human medicine at the Freiburg Medical Faculty 1.5 years after graduation. Participation was possible using paper and online questionnaires. The response rates were 36%-43%. Results: The study conditions were largely rated as good. There is a need for optimization, especially in the area of scientific work. The level of skills acquired was assessed as good to moderate. There were discrepancies between the level of competence achieved during the course of study and the level of competence required to start a career. Discussion: There is a need for development in terms of preparation for starting a career. Compared to the professionally required level of competence, self-assessment was worse in most competence domains. In Freiburg there are approaches to further promote the acquisition of skills during studies. In order to evaluate these developments and future changes in the context of studies, graduate surveys are relevant. Conclusion: Graduate surveys are suitable for generating data on the basis of which curriculum design can be carried out or which can be used to prepare for change processes. The surveys in Freiburg will therefore be continued and supplemented with new, needs-based questions.