Graduates’ satisfaction with the health social work program at the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Background: Graduate satisfaction is an important indicator for evaluating the quality and relevance of professional education. The Health Social Work program at the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS) has provided professional training since 2003. However, evidence on graduates’ satisfaction with the program, practical training, learning environment, competencies, and labor market relevance remains limited. Aim: To assess the satisfaction of graduates of the Health Social Work program at the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among graduates of the Health Social Work program from 2007 to 2025. The study population consisted of 405 graduates, and 108 eligible participants were included in the analysis. Data were collected using a structured 65-item questionnaire covering general information, satisfaction with the profession and program, learning and practical training, and graduate competencies. Satisfaction was measured using a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, median, interquartile range, minimum, and maximum values, were calculated. Ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Review Committee of MNUMS on January 23, 2026 (No. 26/01-01). Results: Among the 108 participants, 15 (13.9%) were male and 93 (86.1%) were female, with a mean age of 29.8±5.3 years. Overall satisfaction with the quality of the Health Social Work program was 3.64±0.84. The highest-rated indicators were training and presentation skills among graduates (4.25±0.79), research skills (4.20±0.80), improvement of personal and professional skills (4.15±0.73), and teachers’ teaching methods (4.13±0.78). Practical training indicators ranged from 3.64 to 3.68. The adequacy of knowledge and skills for performing job responsibilities was rated 3.43±0.92. Regarding the learning environment, the assessment and examination system (4.05±0.68) and student workload (4.01±0.76) received relatively high ratings. In contrast, textbooks, handbooks, and other learning materials received the lowest rating (3.17±0.95), followed by classrooms, equipment, and learning conditions (3.41±0.94). The perceived alignment of the program with labor market needs was 3.39±1.00. Conclusion: Graduates generally reported positive satisfaction with the Health Social Work program. Teaching methods, research skills, and personal and professional competency development were highly rated, while practical training, learning resources, job-related knowledge and skills, and labor market relevance received comparatively lower ratings. Therefore, the program should strengthen practical and field-based training, improve learning resources and facilities, and align curriculum content more closely with workplace and labor market needs. Regular feedback from graduates and employers may further support program improvement.