In this study, we examine the factors that motivate or discourage Pharmacy students at the University of Barcelona from pursuing a doctoral degree, with a focus on how research subjects within the syllabus influence their decision. Given the declining number of Pharmacy graduates who enrol to doctoral studies, our goal is to identify the underlying reasons and, if possible, encourage interested students to enrol in a PhD.

To gather opinions from students during the 2024–25 academic year, we surveyed two groups: 3rd year students, who are midway through the degree, and 5th year students, who are nearing graduation from the five-year program. We designed a 12-question multiple-choice survey and administered printed questionnaires in person on the day of the final semester exam to maximize participation. In total, 339 3rd year and 161 5th year students completed the survey. We analysed the results to identify general patterns among students but also to discern differences between the two groups.

Our findings reveal that 30% of third-year students remain uncertain about their post-graduation plans, a figure that drops to 14% among final-year students. Additionally, 31% of fifth-year students are inclined to pursue postgraduate studies such as a master’s degree, compared to only 18% of third-year students. Interest in pursuing a PhD is notably low, with only a 1.63% of students.

Concerning their employment prospects, only about 2% of students express a desire to work in academia, 20% aim to work in a pharmacy, 44% in industry, and 29% in research (with 22% in industry and 7% in public institutions). Although only 2.1% intend to build a career based on a PhD, a 29% express an interest in research, indicating a gap in awareness regarding the need of a doctoral degree for research careers and highlighting an opportunity to promote PhD pathways among Pharmacy students.

Regarding research subjects within the curriculum, a 57% of students have either considered or already participated in them. A majority (76%) believe these subjects enhance problem-solving skills or improve job prospects, while 16.6% view them as a first step to then follow postgraduate studies or a PhD. When asked if research subjects could motivate to pursuing a PhD, 90% agreed as they provide an opportunity to explore and deepen their engagement with research. On the other hand, 97% of students believe that their average grade plays a crucial role in their eligibility for a PhD program.

When considering motivations for undertaking a PhD, 40% of students think that holding a doctoral degree facilitates access to more specialized positions in the job market, and 37% are driven by a passion for knowledge generation. Only 13% view a PhD to improve their social standing, and 2.5% want to do a PhD because they prefer to continue studying. On the other hand, the main barriers to do a PhD include a lack of personal alignment with an academic career (36%) and the extended time required to complete a PhD program (31.6%). Additionally, insufficient financial support is a significant concern, with 23% of third year and 31% of fifth year students identifying low salaries as the main obstacle.

The findings of this study will be used to guide curricular improvements, increase student awareness, and foster academic debate to encourage more Pharmacy students to consider a PhD career.

Keywords: PhD, motivations, guidance, research subjects, professional development.