Pharmacy postgraduate education transformation: pharmacist preferences for microcredentials

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Continuing Professional Development
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Traditional postgraduate pharmacy programs may not meet the evolving needs of practicing pharmacists.
• There is a growing interest in flexible and modular educational formats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and learner preferences for micro-credentialing in postgraduate pharmacy education in New Zealand.
• To assess pharmacist demand for micro-credentials and their willingness to pay.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to practicing and intern pharmacists in New Zealand.
• The survey identified learner preferences for educational delivery, demand for micro-credentials, and cost thresholds.

Main Results:

• 430 responses were analyzed, indicating significant interest in micro-credentials.
• 88% of participants preferred a stacked micro-credential program over traditional courses.
• Interest, skill development, and career advancement were key motivators, with a preference for lower cost ($300 NZD per micro-credential).

Conclusions:

• Pharmacists in New Zealand are receptive to micro-credentialing as an alternative to traditional postgraduate study.
• Micro-credentials offer a promising avenue for flexible and targeted professional development in pharmacy practice.