Designing and conducting MD/MPH dual degree program in the Medical School of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Many studies have focused on the need of healthsystems to educated physicians in the clinical prevention, researchmethodology, epidemiology and health care management andemphasize the important role of this training in the public healthpromotion. On this basis, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences(SUMS) has established MD/MPH dual degree program since theyear 2012.Methods: In the current study, Delphi technique was used. Bothqualitative and quantitative methods were applied in the Delphiprocess. The Delphi team members including experts withextensive experience in teaching, research and administration inthe field of educational management and health/medical educationreached consensus in almost 86% of the questionnaire itemsthrough three Delphi rounds. MD/MPH program for SUMS wasdesigned based on the items agreed and thematic analysis used inthese rounds.Results: The goals, values, mission and program requirementsincluding the period, the entrance condition, and the number ofunits, and certification were determined. Accordingly, the coursesof the program are presented in parallel with the MD educationperiod. MPH courses consist of 35 units including 16 obligatoryand 15 voluntary ones.Conclusion: Designing MD/MPH program in SUMS based onthe existent models in the universities in different countries,compatible with educational program of this university and needsof national health system in Iran, can be a beneficial measuretowards promoting the students’ knowledge and theoretical/practical skills in both individual and social level. Performingsome additional research to assess the MD/MPH program andsome cohort studies to evaluate the effect of this program on thestudents’ future professional life is recommended.Keywords: Medical education; Public health; Organization; Administration