Abstract
BACKGROUND: The field of nutrition and dietetics is evolving, requiring continuous education and professional development for dietitians to maintain competencies. Pursuing postgraduate studies is a popular method to fulfill these requirements and enhance knowledge and skills. However, several challenges and barriers to postgraduate education exist. Research on these enabling and dissuading factors in a Thai context remains limited. This study aims to explore factors influencing Thai dietitians’ intentions to pursue postgraduate studies in nutrition and dietetics. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted with 30 dietitians working in hospitals and related settings across Thailand. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and in-depth interviews guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior. Thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes. RESULTS: Themes were categorized into four domains: attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and program characteristics. Positive attitudes included personal goals, career advancement, increased income, and skill development. Subjective norms included the influence of colleagues, supervisors, and family. Perceived behavioral control included time, financial, and travel constraints, and language barriers. Preferred program characteristics included relevant content, hybrid learning, and practical research opportunities. CONCLUSIONS: Thai dietitians are motivated by personal and professional growth, career advancement, and knowledge enhancement, but face challenges such as time constraints, financial burdens, and language barriers. To support their professional growth, postgraduate programs should balance theory and practice, offer flexible learning options, and provide comprehensive support systems. These findings can inform the development of tailored graduate programs and serve as a foundation for similar initiatives in other Southeast Asian countries with developing dietetics professions. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-025-08247-8.