Students from low-income families represent a vulnerable population in higher education that demands attention. Pharmaceutical universities globally must establish robust financial aid initiatives to support the growth and achievement of economically disadvantaged learners. In China, institutions have actively experimented with subsidized education models, achieving notable progress alongside certain challenges that offer valuable insights. This research suggests an approach to elevate the core competencies of underprivileged pharmacy students within a development-focused aid framework. The investigation focused on clinical pharmacy undergraduates from a specialized pharmacy institution as participants. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was adopted, involving initial quantitative data via questionnaires, followed by qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. Information from both phases was merged and analyzed statistically.
The survey produced 397 valid responses, predominantly from females (73.8%), mostly undergraduates (89.67%), and originating from rural regions (73.81%). Five respondents took part in subsequent in-depth interviews. Integrated findings revealed: (a) financial support—high satisfaction levels among recipients regarding monetary aid; (b) psychological aid—interviewees largely indicated that scholarships markedly boosted their self-esteem and drive; (c) academic mentoring—aid recipients expressed distinct career goals and a pronounced demand for advanced professional training; and (d) career support—many sought targeted guidance on job planning and professional pathways. Financial aid programs in pharmacy higher education institutions should be expanded to alleviate the economic concerns of disadvantaged clinical pharmacy students via direct funding, foster ethical development through mental health support, enhance general knowledge and scientific proficiency, and build theoretical and hands-on skills via instructional guidance. By embedding employment support within pharmacy curricula, the professional capabilities of clinical pharmacy graduates can be strengthened, thereby advancing reforms in tertiary pharmacy education and raising the standard of pharmaceutical talent cultivation.
