Opinion among undergraduates about oral and maxillofacial pathology as an MDS career option: A questionnaire survey

Abstract

Background: The level of importance given to Oral Pathology and Microbiology as a career option has been decreased. Multiple academic factors are responsible for the sameObjective: To assess the attitude of undergraduate Dental Students on selecting Oral Pathology and Microbiology as a career option.Materials and methods: A digital survey was carried out among undergraduates from final year till internship where their interest in pursuing MDS in Oral pathology and microbiology was surveyed. There were 200 study participants based on convenience sampling technique.Result: Maximum study participants were interested in pursuing MDS in clinical branches whereas only 2.5% were interested to pursue career as MDS in Oral pathology and microbiology.Conclusion: Overall attitude of Final year under graduates and Intern dental students towards Oral and maxillofacial pathology as a MDS option was low. This subject was not of much interest during their Undergraduation days and majority are interested to opt clinical branch as a MDS career option.