A qualitative enquiry into dental students’ perceptions of dentistry as a career choice in the State of Qatar

BACKGROUND: Career choice is a complex, multifaceted process affecting all aspects of life. Motivational factors of aspiring dentists are crucial to inform institutions and aid with the admission process. The aim of this study was to explore undergraduate dental students’ perceived motivation for their career choice in the first dental institution in the State of Qatar to bridge the gap in knowledge in this area. METHODS: Homogeneous purposive sampling technique was employed to collect data from all year 2 and year 3 undergraduate dental students to gain a deeper insight into their motivation of career choice. An explorative qualitative method using face-to-face focus group sessions were utilized. All focus groups were conducted in English and contained a moderator and observer. A topic guide was used to ensure data collection standardization. Participants’ views were recorded and filed notes obtained. Data was transcribed and analysis performed utilizing an inductive thematic approach. RESULTS: A total of 34 students (89.5%) from year 2 and 3 participated in the focus groups. Data analysis revealed six main themes emerging from this study namely; altruism and patient care, family influence factors, childhood aspirations, hands-on practical skills, professional and social status, and the opportunity to reconsider and transfer. Based on frequency, altruism, opportunities to learn hands-on practical skills and professional status appeared to be the main drivers influencing students’ choice of dentistry as a professional career. CONCLUSION: This qualitative study presents the first national study providing insightful information regarding current undergraduate dental students’ decision process in relation to their profession selection, and shows that opportunities to provide patient care seems to be the key to motivation. There was also a strong inclination towards performing hands-on practical tasks as a dentist, and developing a professional status. Interestingly, financial reward did not feature as a motivational factor in this study. The study highlights the influence of socio-cultural and economic factors on choosing dentistry as a career. This data could help dental institutions better understand future applicant’s motivations to join dentistry and assist with the academic recruitment/admission process and targeting students with a potential to excel in the profession.