Influence of motivational and demographic factors on performance in the medical course: a prospective study.

A questionnaire was completed by students entering the University of Queensland (Australia) MB BS course in 1983 and 1984 (n = 399). It contained wide-ranging questions regarding the decision to enter medicine, including how, why and when the decision was reached. Demographic data were also collected. All but two students have now completed their involvement with the course. The most important determinant of qualifying MB BS was geographical, metropolitan students doing so in greatest proportion. High levels of course performance were predicted by father's occupation, and being aware of a widely held attitude, namely that it would be a pity not to enter medicine if able to do so. Several gender differences are noted. Finally, it was noteworthy that the predictive aspects of questionnaire responses did not lessen as students progressed through the course.