qualitative research method course

• Student Login
• Instructor Login
• Areas of Study
• Art and Design
• Behavioral Health Sciences
• Business Administration
• Leadership and Management
• Project Management
• See the full list
• Construction and Sustainability
• Humanities and Languages
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Sciences and Biotechnology
• Chemistry and Physics
• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Health Advising
• Life Science Business and Biotechnology
• Online Sciences Courses
• Technology and Information Management
• Writing, Editing and Technical Communication
• Transfer Credit
• Transfer Credit Courses
• Online Learning
• Online Courses and Certificates
• Information Sessions
• Career Services
• Career-Development Courses
• Professional Internship Program
• Custom Programs
• For Universities and Organizations
• Academic Services
• Transcripts
• General Information
• Community Guidelines
• Course and Program Information
• Latest COVID-19 Information
• Online Course Policies
• Certificates, Programs and CEUs
• Concurrent Enrollment
• International Student Services
• Student Aid
• Disability Support Services
• Financial Assistance
• Voices Home
• Educator Insights
• Student Stories
• Professional Pathways
• Industry Trends
• Free and Low Cost Events
• Berkeley Global

Qualitative Research: Design, Implementation and Methods

DESIGN X440.2

Get an introduction to what qualitative research is, the types of qualitative research methods, the appropriate situations to apply qualitative methods, and how to conduct your own qualitative research. You learn to build a research protocol and use various techniques to design, conduct, analyze and present an informative research study.

At the end of the course, you are expected to conduct your own qualitative research study . To that end, you develop a research plan based on the given situation, collect data using qualitative methodologies , engage with various techniques for coding and analyzing qualitative data effectively, and present the data and insights in a manner that is best aligned with the goals of the research.

Prerequisites: None.

Course Outline

Course Objectives

• Understand what constitutes qualitative research, how it differs from quantitative research and when to apply qualitative research methods
• Identify and formulate appropriate qualitative research plans
• Apply qualitative research data collection techniques
• Develop coding schemes for analysis of qualitative data
• Present qualitative data to inform and influence

What You Learn

• Developing qualitative research questions
• Building a research protocol
• Observing, listening and probing: the core skills of a qualitative researcher
• Qualitative sampling and participant recruitment
• Understanding an overview of the qualitative data analysis process
• Communicating your findings, from summary to interpretation
• Presenting qualitative results

How You Learn

We are online! All of the design classes are conducted online and include video classes, mentor-led learning and peer-to-peer support through our student online platform, Canvas. 

• Reading assignments
• Quizzes at instructor’s discretion
• Small-group activities
• Homework assignments
• Capstone project

Is This Course Right for You?

This course is intended for students in the Professional Program in User Experience (UX) Design , or anybody interested in obtaining skills in qualitative research. You do not need preexisting research experience for this course. Our experienced instructors provide practical information, leverage their qualitative research skills and monitor your development along with peer-to-peer support on our student online platform.

Fall 2024 enrollment opens on June 17!

Thank you for your interest in this course!

The course you have selected is currently not open for enrollment.

Enter your email below to be notified when it becomes available.

Required Field

Get Notified

We're excited that you have chosen us as your education provider.

Once a section for this class is available, we will email you with enrollment information.

Your privacy is important to us .

Email Privacy Policy

Your privacy is important to us!

We do not share your information with other organizations for commercial purposes.

We only collect your information if you have subscribed online to receive emails from us.

We do not partner with or have special relationships with any ad server companies.

If you want to unsubscribe, there is a link to do so at the bottom of every email.

Read the full Privacy Policy

← Back to your information .

Session Time-Out

Privacy policy, cookie policy.

This statement explains how we use cookies on our website. For information about what types of personal information will be gathered when you visit the website, and how this information will be used, please see our Privacy Policy .

How we use cookies

All of our web pages use "cookies". A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers that we place on your computer or mobile device if you agree. These cookies allow us to distinguish you from other users of our website, which helps us to provide you with a good experience when you browse our website and enables us to improve our website.

We use cookies and other technologies to optimize your website experience and to deliver communications and marketing activities that are targeted to your specific needs. Some information we collect may be shared with selected partners such as Google, Meta/Facebook or others. By browsing this site you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy . You can revoke your voluntary consent to participate in monitored browsing and targeted marketing by selecting “Disable All Cookies” below.

Types of cookies we use

We use the following types of cookies:

• Strictly necessary cookies - these are essential in to enable you to move around the websites and use their features. Without these cookies the services you have asked for, such as signing in to your account, cannot be provided.
• Performance cookies - these cookies collect information about how visitors use a website, for instance which pages visitors go to most often. We use this information to improve our websites and to aid us in investigating problems raised by visitors. These cookies do not collect information that identifies a visitor.
• Functionality cookies - these cookies allow the website to remember choices you make and provide more personal features. For instance, a functional cookie can be used to remember the items that you have placed in your shopping cart. The information these cookies collect may be anonymized and they cannot track your browsing activity on other websites.

Most web browsers allow some control of most cookies through the browser settings. To find out more about cookies, including how to see what cookies have been set and how to manage and delete them please visit https://www.allaboutcookies.org/.

Specific cookies we use

The list below identify the cookies we use and explain the purposes for which they are used. We may update the information contained in this section from time to time.

• JSESSIONID: This cookie is used by the application server to identify a unique user's session.
• registrarToken: This cookie is used to remember items that you have added to your shopping cart
• locale: This cookie is used to remember your locale and language settings.
• cookieconsent_status: This cookie is used to remember if you've already dismissed the cookie consent notice.
• _ga_UA-########: These cookies are used to collect information about how visitors use our site. We use the information to compile reports and to help us improve the website. The cookies collect information in an anonymous form, including the number of visitors to the website, where visitors have come to the site from and the pages they visited. This anonymized visitor and browsing information is stored in Google Analytics.

Changes to our Cookie Statement

Any changes we may make to our Cookie Policy in the future will be posted on this page.

• Technical Help
• CE/CME Help
• Billing Help
• Sales Inquiries

Qualitative Data Analysis

This course provides an applied approach to qualitative data analysis through the lens of multiple methods and methodologies.

About this Course

The analysis of qualitative research data is a fundamental yet multifaceted process that requires careful attention to the unique qualities of qualitative research design. This course provides an applied, phenomenological approach to qualitative data analysis. It is designed for an interdisciplinary audience with examples taken from the nonprofit, commercial, and government sectors in the health and social sciences.

Undergraduate/graduate students, research staff, and IRB members in particular may find this course meaningful as an introduction to qualitative research methods.

Course Preview:

Language Availability: English

Suggested Audiences: Faculty, IRB Chairs, IRB Members, Research Staff, Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Organizational Subscription Price: $675 per year/per site for government and non-profit organizations; $750 per year/per site for for-profit organizations Independent Learner Price: $99 per person

Course Content

" role="button"> introduction to qualitative data analysis.

This module discusses the data analysis considerations shared by all qualitative methods and approaches this course covers. This includes the basic qualitative data analysis process and tools and the rigorous and ethical approaches to qualitative data analysis that apply across methods.

Recommended Use: Required ID (Language): 20971 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> In-Depth Interview Method

This module begins with an overview of the basic in-depth interview method and its variations. This provides the foundation for the core discussions concerning the distinctive aspects of the in-depth interview method that affect qualitative data analysis, including quality and ethical considerations.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20972 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> Focus Group Discussion Method

To provide a basis for the core discussions, this module begins with an overview of the fundamentals of the focus group method and its variations. This provides an understanding of the distinctive aspects of the focus group method that affect qualitative data analysis, including quality and ethical considerations.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20973 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> Ethnography

Understanding the ethnographic approach and its variations is important to the discussion of data analysis. For this reason, the module begins with an overview of ethnographic research and the distinctive aspects of ethnography that affect qualitative data analysis, including quality and ethical considerations.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20974 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> Narrative Research

This module provides an overview of narrative research and its variations. It provides an overview of narrative research, which serves as a foundation for the core discussions concerning the distinctive aspects of the narrative research approach that affect qualitative data analysis. The module concludes with a discussion of quality and ethical considerations.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20975 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> Case Study Research

Case study research and its variations are examined at the start of this module. Then, distinctive aspects of case study research that affect qualitative data analysis are explored, including quality and ethical considerations.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20976 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

" role="button"> Qualitative Content Analysis Method

This module reviews the basic Qualitative Content Analysis (QCA) method and its variations. It also discusses the distinctive aspects of the QCA method that affect qualitative data analysis and the quality and ethical considerations that QCA presents.

Recommended Use: Supplemental ID (Language): 20977 (English) Author(s): Margaret R. Roller, MA - Roller Research

Who should take the Qualitative Data Analysis course?

The suggested audience includes students, faculty, and staff that want to learn more about the basics of qualitative data analysis and one or more of the discussed methods.

How long does it take to complete the Qualitative Data Analysis course?

This course consists of one required module and six supplemental modules. All learners should complete module 1 and then complete the supplemental modules as needed (20-30 minutes each).

" role="button"> Why should an organization subscribe to this course?

Organizational subscriptions provide access to the organization's affiliated members. This allows organizations to train individuals across the organization on how to properly conduct qualitative data analysis.

" role="button"> What are the standard recommendations for learner groups?

This course is designed such that learners should complete the first module and then any following method modules as needed.

" role="button"> Is this course eligible for continuing medical education credits?

This course does not currently have CE/CME credits available.

Related Content

This course provides learners with an understanding of how to improve study design, collect and analyze data, and promote reproducible research.

Essentials of observational research protocol design and development.

Foundational course that orients and prepares learners to engage with the scholarly publication process in an informed way.

An in-depth review of the development and execution of protocols.

Privacy Overview

Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

• Study with us
• Short Courses in Qualitative Research Methods
• Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

Now available as an online or face-to-face course

View all our courses:

• Introduction to doing Qualitative Interviews
• Introduction to Analysing Qualitative Data
• Introduction to conversation analysis and health care encounters
• Learning with the book: an introduction to qualitative research methods for health research

This highly-regarded 5 day course will provide you with a good introduction to qualitative research methods using a combination of lectures, workshops and small group work, group discussions, and expert tutor feedback.

Delivered by qualitative experts, this training course will introduce you to a broad range of skills in qualitative research methods.

Designed to follow the research process, this course offers delegates a blend of expert lectures and interactive practical sessions on how to prepare to begin collecting qualitative data, exploring the underpinning philosophy and the use of social theory. Course participants will gain hands-on practical experience of different data collection methods. Participants are actively supported to develop their skills in qualitative data analysis, with a strong focus on thematic analysis. Throughout the course we consider core features of the research process such as reflexivity, and ethics and how to recognise and conduct ‘good quality’ qualitative research.

We think the best way to learn new skills is for you to be well supported by expert teachers and have a good opportunity to practice. Therefore, this course provides virtual practical sessions for participants to practise their interviewing skills, and analyse data. Participants have good opportunity to ask questions and receive individual feedback from tutors and will regularly work in smaller breakout groups with a dedicated expert tutor.

This course is particularly suited for people who are starting work on a project with a qualitative component, doctoral students at the beginning of their studies, and those who are thinking about using qualitative research methods for the first time. The course also provides a useful introduction or refresher for researchers, academics, or managers who are supervising students or undertaking qualitative research projects themselves. While this course is aimed at health and care professionals, and researchers, academics and postgraduate students working in health and care research, the skills developed on our course can be useful in many settings - so please ask us if you are unsure whether QRM is the course for you.

Teaching team

This course is led by a highly experienced and research-active teaching team. Our team have a range of specialities and skills spanning the breadth of qualitative research methods, ensuring that each session is led by a knowledgeable expert in the field. As well as being accomplished researchers, our team are skilled at communicating qualitative research methods in an accessible and clear way. Our tutors are friendly and approachable and will be available to offer delegates tailored feedback. Our participants regularly emphasise our teaching team as a highlight of this course.

This course will include: 

• Practical sessions focussing on data collection methods, including qualitative interviewing and focus groups
• Expert-led lectures on research ethics, underpinning philosophy, using theory in qualitative research to guide sampling, recruitment, designing topic guides and data analysis (including an introduction to the OSOP technique) and on quality in qualitative research
• Small group sessions to practise coding and using thematic analysis
• Access to a range of additional resources including pre-recorded videos and reading lists

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Have an understanding of different approaches to, and the underpinning philosophy of, qualitative research
• Understand the key issues around recruitment and sampling in qualitative research
• Have developed skills to draft an interview topic guide/schedule
• Have practical experience of conducting in-depth interviews
• Have developed skills to begin to analyse qualitative data using a thematic approach
• Be able to discuss ethical issues associated with conducting qualitative research
• Be able to appraise the quality of qualitative research
• Access to the online learning platform (CANVAS)
• Online access to slides and materials
• De-identified data for you to work on whilst developing your skills
• Experienced, approachable tutors who are research-active
• An optional social programme throughout the week, including a guest speaker.

Online Course

Date: 2024/25  

To be advised

Duration:  5 days Course fee: TBA Total places: TBA

Type:  Online Course

 If you have any questions and queries please   email us

In-Person Course

Date: 2024/25 To be advised

Duration:  5 days Course fee: TBA Total places:  TBA Type: Face to Face Course Venue:  TBA

“This has been the most enjoyable course / conference I have ever done…the clarity, structure, notes, examples, practical sessions were brilliant. I came away inspired and happy”

“This has been a fantastic week, an excellent combination of theory and practice. I feel much more confident to go back to work on my project. This should be an example to others of how to run a course.”

“There have been several Eureka moments this week – it has brought clarity to many areas I had previously found opaque and scary. Similarly, it has injected a huge, massive amount of enthusiasm into my attitude to my PhD and career. Also, the social element was brilliantly handled; felt very much that this group gelled well. Looking forward to working with and seeing many people here again. A brilliant course.”

Course Leaders

Lisa Hinton

Catherine Pope

Sue Ziebland

and expert tutors from the Medical Sociology & Health Experiences Research Group team 

Oxford Qualitative Courses

This highly-regarded programme is delivered in online and face to face formats to suit a range of learners.  We use a mixture of lectures and small group work, delivered by our team of qualitative researchers from the University of Oxford’s  Medical Sociology and Health Experiences Research Group . Our group has run these successful courses for almost twenty years alongside active involvement in qualitative research on a variety of different topics, ranging from studies of personal experiences of health conditions and of healthcare practice, to evaluations of organisational change. Our group also includes qualitative methodologists at the forefront of developing qualitative methods including conversation analysis and evidence synthesis.

Findings from our group’s research on patient experiences, together with supported video, audio and text extracts, have been compiled to form the multi-award winning  heathtalk.org   website and its sister site socialcaretalk.org . Our portfolio of research and expertise informs current local, national and international healthcare policy and research. 

The syllabuses of our qualitative courses draw on a wide range of expertise from within our research group, including the disciplinary areas of medical sociology, anthropology, and public policy. 

Receive our updates:

Our courses are popular and often sell-out quickly. To receive a bulletin of upcoming course dates, please register here . 

Got a question? Contact us:

Our friendly team are on-hand to answer your questions and queries

Email:     [email protected]

• UNC Libraries
• HSL Subject Research
• Qualitative Research Resources
• Training Opportunities: UNC & Beyond

Qualitative Research Resources: Training Opportunities: UNC & Beyond

Created by health science librarians.

• What is Qualitative Research?
• Qualitative Research Basics
• Special Topics

About this Training Opportunities Page

Training at unc's odum institute, qualitative certificate programs at unc, workshops: unc & beyond.

• Help at UNC
• Qualitative Software for Coding/Analysis
• Software for Audio, Video, Online Surveys
• Finding Qualitative Studies
• Assessing Qualitative Research
• Writing Up Your Research
• Integrating Qualitative Research into Systematic Reviews
• Publishing Qualitative Research
• Presenting Qualitative Research
• Qualitative & Libraries: a few gems
• Data Repositories

Why is this information important?

• Quite a few departments and institutes on campus offer training in qualitative methods, but they may be difficult to identify due to discipline specific terminology.

On this page you will find the following helpful resources:

• Information about training resources at the Odum Institute
• Links to UNC certificates that involve qualitative studies
• Links to area workshops that feature qualitative methods or concerns.

UNC's Odum Institute (for advancing social science teaching and research) maintains a  calendar of all training at the Institute, including including public, private, and credit courses and additional education opportunities .  Some courses require registration and may have associated fees. Examples of qualitative themed classes offered at the Odum Institute include:

• Executing Your Survey Research Project
• MAXQDA Hands-On Workshop
• NVivo Hands-On Workshop
• Visual Design: A Hands-On Approach

UNC offers many graduate certificates; here are some that are relevant to those interested in qualitative research. Even if you aren't interested in completing the coursework for a certificate, the curricula of these programs are good sources of information on qualitative-related courses taught at UNC. You can see a list of other certificate programs offered at UNC on the central Certificate Programs homepage .

Certificates Open to Graduate Students and Non-Degree-Seeking Students:

• Digital Humanities (Department of American Studies and Carolina Digital Humanities Initiative)
• Survey Methodology (Odum Institute for Research in the Social Sciences)

Certificates Open to Matriculating Graduate Students Only:

A program advisor will work with you to determine how to best structure your certificate based on your research and career goals. A maximum of 4 credit hours may be drawn from required coursework in your graduate program.

• Workshops related to participatory research
• Events related to participatory research

These links will take you to schedules of qualitative workshops offered or co-sponsored by various departments on campus. You may be able to find more by visiting the UNC Events page.

• Qualitative Data Analysis Camp
• Qualitative Writing Camp
• Mixed Methods Research: Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Methods
• Sort and Sift, Think and Shift: Let the Data be Your Guide
• Fundamentals of Qualitative Research
• Doing Qualitative Research Online
• Crafting Phenomenological Research
• Implementation Research: Using Qualitative Research Methods to Improve Policy and Practice
• 8 Criteria for Creating Quality in Qualitative Research
• Building a Codebook and Writing Memos
• All upcoming courses
• NC TraCS Qualitative Research Services (including training)
• << Previous: Special Topics
• Next: Help at UNC >>
• Last Updated: May 14, 2024 12:50 PM
• URL: https://guides.lib.unc.edu/qual

NCRM delivers training and resources at core and advanced levels, covering quantitative, qualitative, digital, creative, visual, mixed and multimodal methods

Join our mailing list

Receive monthly updates about our latest courses and resources

Short courses

Browse our calendar of training courses and events

Featured course

12-14 June 2024

Our resources

NCRM hosts a huge range of online resources, including video tutorials and podcasts, plus an extensive publications catalogue.

Online tutorials

Access more than 80 free research methods tutorials

Resources for trainers

Browse our materials for teachers of research methods

Methods News

What is agent-based modelling and how can it be useful for public health research?

Learn about UK education datasets at free webinar

Dad-shaped holes and opportunities in data about UK children

Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior

Qualitative science and methods training program.

QSMTP provides state-of-the-science training and mentoring in qualitative and mixed research methods to postdoctoral and faculty investigators in the health sciences.

• Research Core Facilities and Resources

The Qualitative Science and Methods Training Program (QSMTP) methods core, founded in 2017, provides state-of-the-science training and mentoring in qualitative and mixed research methods to postdoctoral and faculty investigators in the health sciences. Qualitative methods involve the use of in-depth interviews, focus groups, cognitive interviews, and/or other procedures to optimize methodological rigor and enhance data richness. Integration of qualitative and quantitative methods (“mixed methods”) is increasingly expected in successful patient-oriented research applications to the NIH and other sponsors.

Kate Guthrie, Ph.D.

QSMTP director  Dr. Kate Guthrie  is a Professor (Research Scholar) in the Departments of Psychiatry and Human Behavior in the Alpert Medical School and Behavioral and Social Sciences in the School of Public Health. Dr. Guthrie is also a Senior Research Scientist at The Miriam Hospital's  Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine . Dr. Guthrie has twenty-five years of experience conducting and supporting research projects in the areas of behavioral medicine and patient-oriented health research.

QSMTP provides scholars with:

• A didactic “Foundations in Qualitative Methods” seminar series, which provides attendees with theoretical and methodological knowledge of qualitative strategies that can be implemented in patient-oriented, grant-funded health research. No prior experience with qualitative research is  required. The seminar is currently co-taught by Dr. Guthrie and Dr. R. Rosen, who also serves as a consultant to Brown  University’s Advance-CTR’s Qualitative Research Support Services
• Weekly qualitative skills-building workshops, which are well-suited to investigators actively developing grants to conduct research with qualitative elements, and to investigators engaged in the development of their qualitative research protocols and procedures, preparing to initiate their studies, and/or collecting and analyzing their qualitative (or mixed methods) data
• Expert consultation for qualitative and mixed methods grant-writing and publication;  scholars in both the Foundations Seminar and/or Skills-Building Workshops can make individual appointments with Dr. Guthrie to address more detailed or time-intensive needs for their  research projects

All services are provided remotely.

QSMTP PARTNERS:  Academic and research units are invited to support the program via three-year commitments (academic year: July through June). This commitment secures seats for two scholars per year (postdoctoral fellows or faculty). QSMTP Partners are also eligible for additional seats at reduced fees per additional scholar. Please contact Dr. Guthrie to become a QSMTP Partner.

Is your organization interested in becoming a QSMTP partner? Register to attend an upcoming information session with Dr. Guthrie:

• Wed, May 22, 8-9 a.m. EST
• Thurs, May 30, 12-1 p.m. EST
• Wed, June 5, 4-5 p.m. EST
• Thurs., June 13, 9-10 a.m. EST

Register for an info session

INDIVIDUAL SEATS:  Postdoctoral fellows and faculty from non-Partner units may participate if there is space at a standard cost per seat. The number of scholars may be capped, with preference given to Partners, to ensure high-quality, hands-on  training and mentoring. Please contact Dr. Guthrie for relevant costs.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Sentio Scholarship in Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research Training

Sentio , in Latin, means to perceive, feel, or observe - the foundation for exploring individuals' experiences and narratives. The QSMTP’s Sentio Scholarship helps investigators develop their observational skills and curiosity into a proficiency with qualitative and mixed methods research. When funds and seats are available, the scholarship supports a postdoctoral fellow or faculty member from an eligible institution* to enroll in a QSMTP seminar and/or workshop for a period of one-to-two years.

*Individuals from the following institutions are eligible:

• Historically Black Colleges/Universities (HBCUs)
• Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs)
• non-R1  Doctoral Universities  ("Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity")
• Tribal Colleges and Universities
• International Colleges and Universities from middle- and/or lower- income countries

The application for the 2024-2025 academic year is now closed. Please check again in early 2025 for the next cycle.

Sentio Scholar Applies Qualitative Skills in Turkey and Nepal

Ceren Sönmez, Ph.D., the first Sentio scholar, has used her newly developed qualitative skills to study depression and anxiety among mothers in Turkey and depression among adolescents in Nepal.

Testimonials

“ Qualitative research was a whole new area of research for me. I have been funded to do quantitative research but my knowledge of qualitative methods was limited. With the QSMTP workshop I was able to appreciate the richness of qualitative data, its application in so many areas of medicine, and methodology. I then got funded through NHLBI to conduct a qualitative study. I could not have done this without Dr Guthrie's invaluable guidance and support. She is always available, is a great teacher, mentor, and sponsor, and has truly helped us in performing methodologically sound studies and offered our team of investigators additional flexibility on days that work for us. In short, she's an incredible methodologist and a wonderful teacher and I would do it again in a heartbeat. ”

I took Dr. Guthrie's program as part of my career development grant. It has shaped every aspect of my research career (in the use of technology to prevent and treat violence and related behavioral health problems) and my academic career (now as Academic Dean).

“ Participating in QSMTP and working with Kate are a key reason I was able to put together and get an NIH K award. ”

My current work is focused on iteratively revising an existing intervention to improve acceptability and strength of treatment effects for a new population. With my feet squarely in the quantitative space prior to starting my K23, the QSMTP seminar+workshop provided the ideal combination of didactic training and an open/collaborative environment where I could explore all of the ways that qualitative methodology can enhance the quality and impact of my research. This was crucial for executing my proposed research project but has also created space for me to think creatively about augmenting my research with qualitative/mixed methods in the future.

“ The QSMTP has been fundamental to better understanding qualitative work and gaining knowledge around best practices. QSMTP informed and guided my grant writing as well as the development of the agendas for in-depth qualitative interviews. Dr. Guthrie connected me with other personnel to practice my agendas in Spanish, which has been really helpful [in] tailoring the process to the needs of my project, which include interviews to Latinx caregivers around accessing mental health care and understanding the intergenerational transmission of trauma and the impact in Latinx parenting practice. ”

I attended Dr. Guthrie's workshop for a year while I was preparing my career development award and in the first months after funding. It has been an immense help to me in learning qualitative methods and applying them. I've since been able to obtain further NIH funding with qualitative aims. Dr. Guthrie provides hands-on guidance and is very available for questions and collaborations. Another benefit of the workshop is an opportunity to network with others at your institution who have similar interests but work in different departments or areas of the university. I highly recommend the QSMTP experience!

QSMTP offers such a rich learning environment. The workshop and seminar allow for the development of sound theoretical and foundational knowledge in qualitative skills, but also the hands-on, applied skills of designing, implementing, and analyzing qualitative data. Further, the rich environment of multidisciplinary peers allows for modeling of skills as well as vicarious learning. I learned so much in QSMTP that I never would have even known to ask! Further, having such a wealth of knowledge but also humor in Dr. Guthrie and my peers has greatly enriched my life as well as my work.

Dr. Guthrie brings rich expertise and enthusiasm to her course on qualitative research study design, data collection, and implementation. She provided me with foundational skills and personalized, weekly training in qualitative methods that allowed me to complete the initial qualitative aims of my NIMHD-funded K23 focused on developing and culturally tailoring an online behavioral weight loss intervention for sexual minority women.

Short courses

Qualitative Research Methods in Health

• 10am - 1pm each day

Cost: £1,500

Book a place.

Please email [email protected]  if you wish to apply for this course. The next course will start on 3 October 2024

This course aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to understand, design and conduct high quality qualitative research.

The course will help you:

• gain a clear understanding of the principles of qualitative research
• practise skills including interviewing, running a focus group, data analysis, and developing and presenting a research protocol

This course will be delivered online over 10 Thursday mornings from 3 October to 12 December.

This course is run by researchers from the UCL Centre for Excellence in Qualitative Research, within the Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health (PCPH).

Who it's for

This course is for: 

• Master's level students, PhD students and research staff who need to design and conduct a qualitative study
• those who wish to know how to assess the quality of qualitative research (e.g. funders, journal editors, ethical committee members etc.)

You don't need to have any previous experience of qualitative research, but you will need to do some preparation before each session.

Course content

Lead: Julia Bailey and Tom Witney

This workshop will help you understand the basis on which qualitative methodology is selected as a research approach.

• learn about the philosophical debates around qualitative research
• contrast qualitative and quantitative approaches
• discuss the place of qualitative research in health and medicine

You'll also critique a published paper of a qualitative study. This will help you reflect on a completed study and consider not only the methodological approach and selection of methods, but also practical aspects such as sampling, what counts as data, the position of the researcher, data analysis, and application of findings.

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop you'll be able to:

• describe key features of qualitative research
• explain the rationale for key features of qualitative research design 
• know when qualitative or quantitative study designs are appropriate 
• understand how ‘theory’ is relevant for qualitative research

Leads: Harpreet Sihre and Silvie Cooper

On this workshop you'll learn about qualitative research interviewing techniques and developing topic guides.

You'll explore structured, semi-structured and in-depth interview methods and their application, using real world examples. However, the emphasis will be on semi-structured interview techniques.

You'll also learn about and discuss:

• the importance of different communication styles and researcher reflexivity
• practical issues such as structuring questions, building rapport and dealing with challenging interviews

You'll be encouraged to think of an area of research around which you'll structure and produce a topic guide for use in a practical session. You'll also get the opportunity to practice your newly developed interviewing skills.

As far as possible, the workshop is tailored towards research that those attending are planning/doing.

By the end of this workshop you'll be able to:

• describe and distinguish between structured, semi-structured and 'in-depth' interviewing
• formulate and construct a topic guide
• apply and evaluate some key interviewing skills

Lead: Tom Witney and Fiona Aspinal

This workshop will introduce you to focus groups - a key qualitative research method.

You'll learn about the:

• different stages of the research process where focus groups can be used
• types of research questions that lend themselves to this approach
• practicalities of sampling, convening and conducting focus groups, including issues to consider when researching sensitive topics

You'll also practise your communication and group facilitation skills.

You'll be encouraged to think of an area of research around which you'll structure and produce a topic guide for use in a practical session.

• explain when and how to use focus groups
• design a topic guide for a focus group study
• organise and facilitate a focus group

Leads: Nathan Davies and Fiona Stevenson

On this workshop you'll discuss a range of ways of conducting qualitative data analysis and the rationales for different approaches.

You'll be encouraged to critically reflect on how decisions made throughout research affect the type and extent of analysis possible. The importance of decisions about transcription are also stressed.

You'll consider the place of data management software in qualitative analysis. You won't be taught how to use particular software packages, but you'll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using these.

You'll conduct a thematic analysis on a piece of data, and reflect on and consider the best approach for your own work.

Please note: this workshop does not provide training in the use of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis packages

• distinguish between different types of qualitative data analysis
• recognise the importance of decisions relating to transcribing, reflexivity, field notes, double coding and data management
• consider various approaches to analysis
• understand the principles and practicalities of conducting a basic thematic analysis
• evaluate the benefits of Computer Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis for your projects

Leads: Jane Wilcock and Stephanie Kumpunen

In this interactive workshop you'll plan your own qualitative study design.

You'll work on your own and in small and large groups, with an experienced tutor. You'll also have the opportunity for one-to-one and small group discussions and advice on qualitative study design.

The first day is spent planning your study in a structured way. On the second day you'll present your study design proposal to tutors and other students in small groups, and discuss research issues arising from the proposed studies.

• write clear research questions
• understand the principles of (and debates about) quality in qualitative research
• plan a qualitative research study, specifying the details of how a study will be carried out
• present a four-slide summary of your study design
• discuss the rationale for chosen study designs

Teaching and assessment

The course is highly interactive, involving a range of teaching techniques including group work, practical tasks and discussion.

It will be run with a mixture of synchronous, online learning (e.g. presentations, small group discussions) and asynchronous learning (pre-recorded videos, readings, preparatory writing/planning).

You'll receive help designing and planning your own qualitative research project. You'll then present your design proposals and receive feedback from course tutors and peers at the end of the course.

You'll be required to do some preparation before each session (reading and/or watching videos).

How to apply

To apply for this course you’ll need to complete a short application form.

Your application will be judged on your suitability for the course and how much you're likely to benefit. Priority will be given to people who are actively planning or conducting qualitative research.

Please email [email protected]  if you’d like to be added to the waiting list. When booking opens and there are spaces available for the course, you'll be emailed the application form.

Cancellation policy

Cancellations must be received in writing at least two weeks before the start of the event and will be subject to an administration charge of 20% of the course fee. Unfortunately, no refunds will be made within two weeks of the course date. Any refund will be made by UCL to you within 30 days of your cancellation and be paid to you in the same way as you paid for your order.

We reserve the right to cancel teaching if necessary and will, in such event, make a full refund of the registration fee. PCPH Events will not be liable for any additional incurred costs.

Further information

If you have any questions about the course content, please email Fiona Stevenson ( [email protected] ) or Julia Bailey ( [email protected] ).

For administrative queries, please contact Lynda Russell-Whitaker ( [email protected] ).

Course team

Julia Bailey - joint Course Director

Julia is an Associate Professor at the e-Health Unit at UCL and a sexual health speciality doctor in South East London. Her research interests include sexual health, e-Health, doctor-patient interaction, science communication and social science in medicine (qualitative methodologies). View Julia’s IRIS profile for more information about her work and publications.

Fiona Stevenson - joint Course Director

Fiona is a Professor of Medical Sociology and Co-Director of e-Health Unit at UCL. She’s currently Head of the Department of Primary Care and Population Health at UCL. Her research is broadly encompassed by the overarching theme of perceptions, communication and interactions about treatment. Her methodological expertise lies in qualitative methods, both in relation to thematic analysis of interviews and focus groups and conversation analysis of interactional data. She has expertise in conducting original research as well as implementing research findings into practice. View Fiona’s IRIS profile for more information about her work and publications.

Nathan Davies

Nathan is an Associate Professor and Alzheimer’s Society Fellow based in the Centre for Ageing Population Studies at UCL. His main research interests are in older adults, dementia, and supporting family carers. He's a qualitative researcher leading on several qualitative studies, which explore sensitive topics, including end of life care. In addition to experience of interviews, focus groups and various types of qualitative analysis, he has extensive experience of co-design, co-production and consensus-based methods. View Nathan’s IRIS profile for more information about his work and publications.

Jane Wilcock

Jane is a Senior Research Associate in the Centre for Ageing & Population Studies, UCL. Her main research interests are in dementia, ageing, emergent technologies and trials of complex interventions in primary care and community settings. A mixed-methods researcher, Jane has experience of a variety of study designs such as RCTs, interview and focus group studies, nominal group techniques and co-design of interventions. In addition, she is a methodology expert for the NIHR Research Design Service London. View Jane’s IRIS profile for more information about her work and publications.

Silvie Cooper

Silvie is a Lecturer (Teaching) in the Department of Applied Health Research at UCL. Her research interests include capacity building for health research, management of chronic pain, digital health, and patient education, using qualitative, mixed methods, and translational research approaches. Alongside her research, she designs and teaches on a variety of health and social science courses for undergraduates, postgraduates and professionals. Topics include research and evaluation methods, the social aspects of health and illness, and the impact of context, practice and policy on healthcare experiences. View Silvie’s IRIS profile for more information about her works and publications.

Harpreet Sihre

Harpreet formerly completed her PhD at the Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, where she researched the lived experiences of South Asian women with severe postnatal psychiatric illnesses using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. She then worked at the Unit of Social and Community Psychiatry on an NIHR-funded study researching accessibility and acceptability of Perinatal Mental Health Services.

Harpreet’s research interests encompass mental health, perinatal mental health, access to services and equality, diversity and inclusion, using qualitative research methods. Harpreet has taught on both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including small group teaching and lecturing at the University of Birmingham and Queen Mary University. View Harpreet’s IRIS profile for more information about her work and publications.

Tom is a Research Fellow at the department of  Primary Care and Population Health . He is a qualitative health researcher, with a particular interest in sexual health and relationship intimacy. His current work focuses on improving access to sexual health for trans and gender diverse people and supporting uptake of chlamydia retesting following a diagnosis. View Tom’s Iris profile for more information about his work and publications.

Fiona Aspinal

Fiona is based in the Department of Applied Health Research for the NIHR ARC North Thames as 'Senior Research Associate in Qualitative Methods Applied to Organisational Research in Health' where, as part of the ARC North Thames' Research Partnership Team, she helps to facilitate and support health and social care research with local, regional and national relevance. She is also the social care research lead for NIHR CRN North Thames.

Her areas of research interest are: Qualitative research and evaluation of complex health and social care interventions and organisations; The experience and outcomes of integrated care policy and practice for staff, service users and informal carers; Social and community health care for adults, including people with dementia; Social care research infrastructure/skills.

At UCL, in addition to the Qualitative Research Methods in Health short course, Fiona teaches on research methods and social science courses and modules, such as the BSc Population Health Sciences, the Medicine MBBS BSc and the Population Health MSc. She also supervises undergraduate and postgraduate students. View Fiona’s Iris profile for more information about her work and publications.

Stephanie Kumpunen

Stephanie is a THIS Institute Doctoral Fellow at UCL and a Senior Fellow in Health Policy at Nuffield Trust (a London-based health and care think tank). Her research focuses on the organisation of Primary Care and community-based health and care services.

Stephanie has led on a number of qualitative studies and mixed-methods evaluations. She has a particular interest in rapid qualitative approaches; namely rapid ethnographies that inform health and care service improvement. View Stephanie’s UCL profile for more information about her work and publications.

“The course is a really a great opportunity to read, reflect, discuss and share research, which is helpful for personal and professional development.” [Academic Clinical Fellow, Spring 2022]

“This session really helped me to organise my thoughts and put together a coherent plan for future research. It will make writing my protocol very easy!” [PhD Student, Spring 2022]

“It was such an excellent course. The information and materials provided were straight to the point and helpful, the working atmosphere was inspiring and constructive, and the tasks were interesting and activating. Thank you to all tutors!” [Clinical Research Programme Coordinator, Spring 2022]

“Great tutors, great reading material. It was very interesting to hear other peoples' experiences. Although this course was virtual, there were plenty of opportunities for interaction. I now have a better understanding and I am confident to run my study. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants an intro in qual research.” [Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow, 2021]

"I have a more clear understanding of the basics of qual methods, terminology and ways it may fit into my own research." [Researcher, 2019] 

Course information last modified: 22 Apr 2024, 13:33

Length and time commitment

• Time commitment: 10am - 1pm each day
• Course length: 10 weeks

Contact information

• Lynda Russell-Whitaker
• [email protected]

Related Short Courses

Course details

• Mon 04 Nov 2024 to 08 Nov 2024
• Mon 23 Jun 2025 to 27 Jun 2025

Qualitative Research Methods

Introducing qualitative research

This module will provide an introductory overview of the principles and practice of qualitative research. Students will explore how people make sense of their lives, and recognise ways in which qualitative research bridges the gap between scientific evidence and clinical practice by examining the attitudes, beliefs, and preferences of both patients and practitioners. Participants will be introduced to the concepts underpinning qualitative research, learn to collect data using fundamental methods, including observation, interview and focus groups and become familiar with the techniques of thematic qualitative data analysis.

The last date for receipt of complete applications is 5pm Friday 7th June 2024. Regrettably, late applications cannot be accepted.

The overall aims of this module are to enable students to:

• Use qualitative research in evidence based practice;
• Understand commonly used qualitative methodologies in health care;
• Understand the ways in which qualitative and quantitative approaches can be combined;
• Discuss the issues involved in systematic review and synthesis of qualitative research;
• Describe steps to design, data collection and analysis for a qualitative project;
• Use qualitative methods, including observation, interviews and focus groups;
• Conduct thematic qualitative data analysis;
• Write up qualitative research results.

Comments from previous participants:

"All tutors had both solid theoretical understanding of their topic and wide practical knowledge of the application of the approach being taught in practice. This course was a good mix of theory, opportunities to practice new skills, and application of theory into (one's own) practice."

Programme details

This module is run over an eight week cycle where the first week is spent working on introductory activities using a Virtual Learning Environment, the second week is spent in Oxford for the face to face teaching week (this takes place on the dates advertised), there are then four Post-Oxford activities (delivered through the VLE) which are designed to help you write your assignment. You then have a week of personal study and you will be required to submit your assignment electronically the following week (usually on a Tuesday at 14:00 UK Local Time).

Recommended reading

• Ziebland, S., Coulter, A., Calabrese, J. and Locock, L.(Editors). (2013) Understanding and Using Health Experiences. Improving patient care. Oxford: OUP.

Details of funding opportunities, including grants, bursaries, loans, scholarships and benefit information are available on our financial assistance page.

If you are an employee of the University of Oxford and have a valid University staff card you may be eligible to receive a 10% discount on the full stand-alone fee. To take advantage of this offer please submit a scan/photocopy of your staff card along with your application. Your card should be valid for a further six months after attending the course.

Dr Anne-Marie Boylan

Module coordinator.

Anne-Marie Boylan is a Departmental Lecturer and Senior Research Fellow based in the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be based on submission of a written assignment which should not exceed 4,000 words.

Academic Credit

Applicants may take this course for academic credit. The University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education offers Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) points for this course. Participants attending at least 80% of the taught course and successfully completing assessed assignments are eligible to earn credit equivalent to 20 CATS points which may be counted towards a postgraduate qualification.

Applicants can choose not to take the course for academic credit and will therefore not be eligible to undertake the academic assignment offered to students taking the course for credit. Applicants cannot receive CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme) points or equivalence. Credit cannot be attributed retrospectively. CATS accreditation is required if you wish for the course to count towards a further qualification in the future.

A Certificate of Completion is issued at the end of the course.

Applicants registered to attend ‘not for credit’ who subsequently wish to register for academic credit and complete the assignment are required to submit additional information, which must be received one calendar month in advance of the course start date. Please contact us for more details.

Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions.

Application

This course requires you to complete the application form and to attach a copy of your CV. If you are applying to take this course for academic credit you will also be required to provide a reference. Please note that if you are not applying to take the course for academic credit then you do not need to submit a reference.

Please ensure you read the guidance notes which appear when you click on the symbols as you progress through the application form, as any errors resulting from failure to do so may delay your application.

• Short Course Application Form
• Terms and Conditions

Selection criteria

Admissions Criteria: To apply for the course you should:

• Be a graduate or have successfully completed a professional training course
• Have professional work experience in the health service or a health-related field
• Be able to combine intensive classroom learning with the application of the principles and practices of evidence-based health care within the work place
• Have a good working knowledge of email, internet, word processing and Windows applications (for communications with course members, course team and administration)
• Show evidence of the ability to commit time to study and an employer's commitment to make time available to study, complete course work and attend course and university events and modules.
• Be able to demonstrate English Language proficiency at the University’s higher level . 

Accommodation

Accommodation is available at the Rewley House Residential Centre , within the Department for Continuing Education, in central Oxford. The comfortable, en-suite, study-bedrooms have been rated as 4-Star Campus accommodation under the Quality In Tourism scheme , and come with tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi access and Freeview TV. Guests can take advantage of the excellent dining facilities and common room bar, where they may relax and network with others on the programme.

IT requirements

Please ensure that you have access to a computer that meets the specifications detailed on our technical support page.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support

Sign up for course news

• MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care
• MSc in EBHC (Teaching and Education)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Health Research
• Postgraduate Certificate in Health Research

and also available as an accredited short course in Health Sciences

ME305: Qualitative Research Methods

Subject Area: Research Methods, Data Science, and Mathematics

Course details

• Department Department of Methodology
• Application code SS-ME305

Key information

Is this course right for you.

Applications are open

We are accepting applications. Apply early to avoid disappointment.

How to apply

The purpose of this course is to equip participants with the skills to be able to sensitively and critically design, carry out, report, read, and evaluate qualitative research projects, focussing on in-depth interviews and participant observation.

It is taught by qualitative research experts who have experience of using the methods they teach. It covers the full cycle of a field-based qualitative research project: from design, to data collection, analysis, reporting and dissemination.

The course has the dual aims of equipping students with conceptual understandings of current academic debates regarding methods, and the practical skills to put those methods into practice.

Hear from some of our alumni and discover why 98% of Summer School students would recommend us.

Prerequisites: The course assumes little or no knowledge of qualitative methods. There are no formal prerequisites, however, applicants should be at an advanced undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Level : 300 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees : Please see Fees and payments

Lectures : 36 hours

Classes : 18 hours

Assessment : One oral presentation (20%) and one 2,000 word essay (80%).

Typical credit : 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course is suited to students who wish to gain the necessary skills for qualitative research projects.

It is ideal for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates, as well as professionals with an interest in using qualitative methods to undertake social research.

This course will provide students with:

• A solid understanding of the core methods of qualitative data collection and analysis
• Critical skills in interpreting and evaluating reports of field-based qualitative studies
• Experience in putting qualitative skills into practice
• Realistic and practical teaching from established researchers who put these tools to use in their ongoing research projects

The fundamentals of my course are covered at my home institution, but the summer school course gives me an extra breadth into how the industry works. It’s been a really good experience in diversifying my skill set.

Jonathan Tam, Canada University of Leeds/Transport for London

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.

Dr Aliya Rao

Assistant Professor

Dr Chana Teeger

LSE’s Department of Methodology is an internationally recognised centre of excellence in research and teaching in the area of social science research methodology. The disciplinary backgrounds of the staff include political science, statistics, sociology, social psychology, anthropology and criminology. The Department coordinates and provides a focus for methodological activities at the School, providing methods training to students from across the School.

With the training in the core social scientific tools of analysis and research offered by the Department of Methodology, coupled with its numerous workshops in other transferable skills such as computer programming and the use of methods-related software, the Department of Methodology ensures that the School’s students and staff have the expertise and training available to maintain the School’s excellence in social scientific research. We also work closely with colleagues in the Departments of Statistics and Mathematics to cover advanced topics, including in the interdisciplinary area of social applications of data science.

Join our mailing list

Sign up to get more information

Related Courses

Course title: me306: real analysis.

A Unique Interdisciplinary Experience

This research methods-based graduate certificate is truly interdisciplinary, drawing on courses across seven different departments. The certificate is practical in nature and will train students in designing qualitative research studies to answer social science questions, engage in appropriate data collection methods, apply a variety of data analysis approaches, and learn the best ways to report research findings for individual audiences. Throughout all of these aspects, there is a focus on the latest research technologies.

Program information including curriculum and graduation requirements can be found in  the  ETSU Graduate Catalog .

Earn a Research Credential

This certificate provides a research methods credential for those working in academic, industry, non-profits or other venues that makes them uniquely qualified to conduct qualitative research studies for their employers.

What are the benefits of completing this certificate?

• improve graduates’ competitive status on the job market,
• assist students in degree programs that have limited room for advanced methodological training,
• allow students to benefit from faculty expertise in a variety of fields,
• enhance working professionals’ research design skills utilizing qualitative data collection and analysis methods.

This certificate can be completed alongside another graduate degree, or as a stand-alone program. Courses are offered fully online, fully in person or as a mix of the two.

Four Classes

Strengthen skills to answer research questions in the social sciences and health sciences..

1 Foundations Course | 1 Digital Qualitative Research Methods Course | 2 Advisor Approved Electives

View Courses

Steps to Apply

Step 1    Create your ETSU Application Account by choosing the "Sign Up" option

Step 2    Sign in to the ETSU Application Portal and select "Start a New Application"

Step 3    Choose "Graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "Certificate," term, then choose  Qualitative Research Methods  and complete the remainder of the form.

Take me to the application portal

Credits to complete this program: 12 credit hours Please note that enrollment in an on-ground course affects out-of-state student eRate eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website  ( www.sacscoc.org ).

A bachelor’s degree required for admission. However, the degree does not have to be in a specific discipline.

Courses for this program are offer in asynchronous or synchronous formats. Students have the flexibility to choose their course modality. There are four foundations classes to choose from and two digital methods classes to choose from, along with 13 elective courses.

This program does not have any on campus requirements at this time.

The time to completion depends on how many courses students take per semester. Most students complete the certificate in two to four semesters.

Students may begin in the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.

There are no scholarships for this certificate, specifically.  ETSU's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships offers scholarship information for all student levels. By submitting the Universal Scholarship Application, students can be considered for a variety of university scholarships. Learn more on the  ETSU Scholarship  website .  Students are also encouraged to visit the  Paying for Graduate School website  for information regarding ETSU graduate scholarships and other financial resources. 

The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's  Cost of Attendance  for more details. 

CRS 604 - Qualitative Communication Research Methods

• Find a course
• Undergraduate study
• Postgraduate study
• MPhil/PhD research
• Short courses

Entry requirements

• Financial support

How to apply

• Come and meet us
• Evening study explained
• International Students
• Student Services
• Business Services
• Student life at Birkbeck
• The Birkbeck Experience
• Boost your career
• About Birkbeck
• Contact Birkbeck
• Faculties and Schools
• ReciteMe accessibility

Qualitative Social Research Methods

Friday 04 october - friday 13 december 2024, 6pm-7.30pm.

10 sessions - Check class timetable

Students are charged a tuition fee for each module at enrolment. Module fees for students continuing on their programme in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. For more information, please see the College Fees Policy.

On our Qualitative Social Research Methods short course we introduce you to the theory and practice of a range of qualitative research methods and equip you with the skills needed to undertake independent qualitative research. You will learn how to critically reflect on different methods and assess which may be most appropriate for particular research puzzles and questions. You will also learn about performing data collection in a variety of settings in an intelligent and thoughtful manner.

We will cover:

• approaches to social research
• why we do qualitative research
• depth interviews
• focus groups and workshops
• observation and ethnography
• document analysis
• discourse analysis
• case studies
• analysing qualitative data
• using qualitative data analysis software (Nvivo).

This postgraduate-level short course is ideal if you are a professional working in research or a related role in the public sector or a nonprofit organisation. It may also make a valuable contribution to your Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Assessment is via a 3000-word essay (90%) and two online quizzes (10%).

15 credits at level 7

Most of our short courses have no formal entry requirements and are open to all students.

This short course has no prerequisites.

As part of the enrolment process, you may be required to submit a copy of a suitable form of ID .

International students who wish to come to the UK to study a short course can apply for a Visitor visa . Please note that it is not possible to obtain a Student visa to study a short course .

You register directly onto the classes you would like to take. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis - so apply early. If you wish to take more than one short course, you can select each one separately and then register onto them together via our online application portal. There is usually no formal selection process, although some modules may have prerequisites and/or other requirements, which will be specified where relevant.