Evaluation of Performance Indicators of the Department of Nutritional Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Internal evaluation is a systematic process for identifying, collecting, and analyzing valid, relevant, and up-to-date data regarding the performance of an academic unit. Objectives: This descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated key performance indicators, including educational, research, and organizational metrics, in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. This internal evaluation, conducted during the academic year 2025, aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the department’s current status to inform future quality improvement initiatives. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in the Department of Nutrition at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. The total eligible population comprised 22 participants, including 1 manager (4.5%), 6 faculty members (27.3%), 10 students (45.5%), and 5 graduates (22.7%). Data were collected using internal assessment questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 and categorized as unfavorable (scores of 1 - 1.66), relatively favorable (scores of 1.67 - 2.32), or favorable (scores of 2.33 - 3). Results: The internal evaluation showed that all assessed domains were rated as favorable. The mean scores for the domains were as follows: goals, organizational position, management, and organization, 2.54; educational courses and curriculum, 2.55; faculty members, 2.50; students, 2.46; teaching and learning process, 2.50; educational facilities and equipment, 2.63; theses, 2.65; and graduates, 2.76. The overall mean score for the department was 2.57, indicating a favorable status for the nutrition department. Conclusions: The Department of Nutrition at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences achieved a favorable performance level in 2025, with a mean score of 2.57. Continued improvement is recommended through innovative teaching, infrastructure upgrades, and regular evaluations. These findings may help inform educational decisions and enhance the university’s overall quality.