Objective: The aim of this study was to understand the preferences of final year dentistry students in postgraduate
specialization and explore the factors which influence them in making decisions regarding their future in pursuing postgraduate
studies.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was carried out between August 2017- January 2018 at four dental colleges across
Karachi, including, three private sector and one public sector institution. A multiple choice, closed-ended questionnaire
consisting of 8 statements was prepared and distributed among all the final year BDS students. 225 used and 200 student
responses were recorded. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 and Chi Square was applied to achieve the results.
Results: 81% of the respondents were females. 79% were in the age range of 22-23years. 63% age of students had parents
that came from a professional background. 75% of the total respondents wanted to pursue postgraduate studies. The link
between the age of the student, gender and the willingness to pursue postgraduate studies was found to be insignificant
whereas with parental profession, it was significant (p value=0.016). 60% students believed that they had received enough
specialty exposure and encouragement from their institutions to be able to decide on their postgraduate plans. The first
choice of specialty for 28% students was Oral Surgery followed by Orthodontics and Endodontics for 22% respondents.
The second choice of specialty for the students was Operative Dentistry for 30% of the students followed by 17% who
preferred Orthodontics. The rest were divided among the other subjects. 36% of the students cited their aptitude for a
specific field as the most common factor for affecting their decision on specialization. 28% cited job status/ prospects and
financial reasons as the factor most likely to influence their decision on specialization.
Conclusion: According to the study, there was no significant association between the age, gender and the preferences of
the student towards postgraduate specialization. However, parental occupation was bound to play a role. The choices of
the students as regards specialty selection and influencing factors are varied. As the trend towards postgraduate specialization
in dentistry is gaining momentum, it is imperative to research this area more for better planning and allowing students to
make informed decisions.