Course-related extra curricular activities of M. Pharm undergraduatestudents at the University of Portsmouth

Little is known of the quality or extent of the pharmacy-related experiences of pharmacy students during their vacations. Such information would be valuable in assessing its relevance to the undergraduate curriculum and in future course design. This study surveyed course-related, extracurricular activity (CRECA) of all M. Pharm undergraduates during a single academic year (August 2002 – July 2003). The overall response rate to the questionnaire was 64.8%.The majority of respondents had completed at least one period of CRECA, mainly during the summer vacation, and most were completed in a community or hospital setting. A major motivation for student choice of activity was gaining a specific workplace experience relating to their chosen career pathway (.80%); the rate of pay was of less importance (,36%).Workplace activities became more sophisticated passing from stage 1 to 4 (corresponding with year 1 – 4 of the course),although range of activity and contact with healthcare professionals and other students were already significant at stage 1.CRECA helped to confirm the student’s career choice in approximately 80% of cases, and 90% had a better understanding of the pharmacist’s role after completion. More than 75% of respondents at all stages thought that CRECA should beQ1incorporated into the M. Pharm. The advantages and disadvantages of the programme are discussed.