Barriers to and factors influencing the pursuit of pharmacy student research

Abstract Introduction The objective of this study was to identify perceived barriers and factors influencing student pursuit of research during pharmacy school. Methods A voluntary, paper-based or electronic questionnaire was administered to all pharmacy students at a private college of pharmacy in mandatory courses during the 2016–2017 academic year. Survey questions collected information pertaining to demographics, factors influencing student pursuit of research, and barriers to pursuit of research. Participation was incentivized with gift cards. Results A total of 623 students completed the survey (79% response rate). The average respondent was female (69.1%), 25-years old (IQR 23–26 years), employed (69.9%), and had a prior degree (66.6%). During pharmacy school, 27.3% of respondents pursued a research project. Of students not pursuing a research project during pharmacy school, the amount of interest to complete a project differed significantly between professional years (P  Conclusions Students report additional information regarding research opportunities would positively influence their decision to pursue research while in pharmacy school. Future studies should evaluate strategies to familiarize students with the research process.