The rapid growth and expansion of Master of health professions education (MHPE) programs: A mixed-methods study of international curricular trends and guidelines for programs

Abstract

Purpose This study explores international trends and standards of Master’s degree programs through a comprehensive environmental scan and focus group interviews to understand curricular structure, content, program director expectations, educational context, and future directions. Method Authors conducted a two-phase mixed-methods sequential explanatory design to conduct the environmental scan (phase 1), and subsequently conducting focus groups (phase 2) with program directors. A population list of Master’s programs was used to generate a sampling frame, considering the geographic region (continent) and institution type (university, organization, public institution). Qualitative data were coded to analyze the breadth and depth of courses. Three one-hour virtual focus group interviews were conducted with ten program directors. Results The population list of 159 Masters programs worldwide was used to create a sample for analysis in the environmental scan (n = 46 Masters programs), representing programs from North America, Europe, Australia, and South Africa. Most programs (39%) delivered their courses online, with 20% exclusively offering an in-person program. Focus group participants indicated expectations of graduates, context in which they learn, as well as future directions for improving health professions education graduate programs. Conclusion Program directors should consider programmatic aims, localized needs, and quality/standard of the program in designing Masters programs, with individualized growth opportunities for learners.