Microcredentials (MCs) are brief, focused courses that certify an individual’s attainment of particular skills or knowledge. Pharmacy schools are well-positioned to support the continuing professional development (CPD) of pharmacists by incorporating MC-based training within their curricula. This study aimed to investigate pharmacy professionals’ perspectives on the necessity and feasibility of MC programs worldwide. A total of eleven semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with pharmacy practitioners, policymakers, and academic staff across seven countries. Participants were recruited via purposive sampling to capture insights from diverse pharmacy sectors. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using a general inductive approach. Interviewees viewed MCs in pharmacy as a forward-thinking approach aligned with the increasing digitalisation of the field. They noted that MCs offer accessible opportunities to acquire skills and knowledge relevant to pharmacy practice and can serve as an alternative route to fulfilling traditional CPD requirements. Many participants suggested that universities are well-suited to deliver MCs; however, challenges such as recognition, time constraints, and resource limitations were highlighted as potential obstacles to uptake and implementation. The study sheds light on pharmacy practitioners’ and academics’ views on MCs and their potential contribution to pharmacy education and practice. These findings can inform the development of MCs suitable for global CPD purposes. The study is particularly timely given the exploration of alternative teaching and learning models triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
