Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: Internal evaluation of departments makes it possible to judge the quality and to achieve the goals of educational system. In the academic educational system, the purpose of education is to create appropriate and increasing changes in the system’s product (i.e. students). The aim of this study was to determine the educational and research status of the Department of Occupational Health of Qom University of medical sciences and to offer reform strategies for improvement of the quality of education and research in the department of Occupational Health.

Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Occupational Health of Qom University of Medical Sciences in academic year 2010-2011. Internal evaluation was accomplished based on a standard framework of criteria and indicators. Data gathering was done through 5 valid and reliable 3-point scale questionnaires (for students, head of department, faculty members, graduates, and employers) and using a checklist of educational and research facilities. The data analysis was performed through descriptive statistics.

Results: The Department of Occupational Health was in a desirable condition in terms of facilities and equipment, and in other components, was at a relatively desirable level. In general, the results showed that the internal evaluation of the department with a score of 2.02 was at a relatively desirable level.

Conclusion: According to the results of this study, although the result of internal evaluation of the department was at a relatively desirable level, more complete reforms must be undertaken in the Department of Occupational Health in order to reaching a desirable level of education and research.