Perceived educational value of sociology among undergraduate allied health sciences students in Chennai

This study aimed to assess the perceived usefulness of the sociology course among undergraduate Allied Health Sciences (AHS) students in Chennai, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 240 undergraduate AHS students who were in their third and fourth years at a medical college and hospital in Chennai. The Perceived Usefulness of Sociology Course (PUSC) scale was developed and validated by the investigator and administered using Google Form. In addition, a 10-point numerical rating scale was used to assess the overall satisfaction with the sociology course. Among the 240 students, 62% were female students and 54% were studying in fourth-year. The mean score for the PUSC was 57.49 ± 9.15 and ranged from 15 to 75. Overall, 62% of the students had a high level of perceived usefulness of the sociology course. No significant differences were observed in gender and year of study. One hundred and twenty-three (51%) students rated their satisfaction with the course as high, highlighting its perceived effectiveness in meeting learning objectives in the Allied Health Sciences curriculum. The study showed that undergraduate AHS students had a positive perception of the sociology course, recognising its value. They valued its role in understanding the applied social determinants of health and improving patient interactions.