Abstract
Clinical pharmacy is an evolving discipline that plays an important role in optimizing patient care and medication therapy. In Saudi Arabia, transformative changes under Vision 2030 emphasize the importance of clinical pharmacists in improving healthcare outcomes. However, the transition from academic training to professional practice is accompanied by challenges, including insufficient practical training, systemic barriers, and evolving job market demands. This study aims to explore the career aspirations, motivations, preparedness, and barriers faced by fifth- and sixth-year of Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) students at Umm Al-Qura University, providing insights into the factors guiding their career paths. A qualitative study was conducted between November 2024 and January 2025. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview process with an open-ended questionnaire administered electronically to 105 students. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the qualitative data, identifying recurring patterns and themes. Students expressed a preference for hospital and pharmaceutical company careers, influenced primarily by financial stability, career growth opportunities, and work-life balance. However, barriers such as high workloads, unclear clinical pharmacist roles, and limited professional recognition discouraged many from pursuing hospital-based clinical pharmacy careers. Most participants indicated a strong interest in further education and specialized training to enhance their professional readiness. Academic and internship experiences played a pivotal role in shaping career preferences, highlighting the importance of experiential learning in bridging the gap between education and practice. This study highlights the aspirations and challenges faced by Pharm.D students, emphasizing the need for educational reforms and systemic improvements to better align academic training with workforce demands. Addressing barriers and enhancing practical training opportunities are essential to fully integrate clinical pharmacists into Saudi Arabia's healthcare system, supporting Vision 2030's objectives. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and healthcare leaders shaping a resilient and future-focused clinical pharmacy workforce.