Components Related to Academic Achievement and Graduating in Time in Postgraduate Levels from the Perspective of Students of the Faculty of Medical Management and Informatics: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Postgraduate students are under increasing pressure to complete their studies within set time frames. This research aims to identify the components related to graduating in-time in the postgraduate courses of the School of Management and Medical Information Sciences of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences from the student's point of view. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in the first half of 2023. Participants were master's degree students entering the year 2013 and later, as well as doctoral students entering the year 2014 and later of the School of Management and Medical Information Sciences of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, who in the approved period had successfully completed their courses. The sampling method was convenient and included five students. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect research data, either face-to-face or by phone. Findings: The result of the research was 12 issues or subthemes, seven themes, and three main themes. Identified concepts were classified into the following three main themes: "pre-existing factors," "educational domain," and "personal characteristics." Conclusion: Graduating in-time postgraduate levels depends on various factors at the individual and university level. The research results can provide more understanding and knowledge of the mentioned factors and help educational planners plan more effectively, considering the different conditions of students and the heterogeneity of postgraduate courses. © 2024 Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.