Qualitative Research and Analysis

A minimum of a second class Honours degree (2:1 preferred) or equivalent. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

• IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
• IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

• Critically discuss theoretical issues central to the conduct of qualitative research and design.
• Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the qualitative research process including strengths and limitations of such approaches.
• Demonstrate skills in qualitative analysis, including the use of analytical software (QSR NVivo).
• Demonstrate an ability to generate explanatory theory and report qualitative results.

This online module provides an overview of a range of qualitative methods and approaches and you will develop skills in qualitative analysis.

There are three study units:

1. Epistemology and qualitative research
2. A range of analytical approaches
3. Writing up and reporting qualitative analysis.

Students are supported via virtual classroom teaching sessions when they will be able to see analytical techniques demonstrated and can take part in guided discussions.

You will be guided through the module’s three units via structured materials that lead the students through the podcasts and highlight essential reading. Online teaching sessions in the virtual classroom will be used to demonstrate techniques of qualitative analysis using QSR NVivo software. Students will work together on their first piece of analysis and present their results in an online session. They will then continue to conduct analysis on sample transcripts, learning the use of the software (provided by the university) via online support sessions.

The module will be delivered using a range of approaches, including - webinars, podcasted lectures and other activities such as reading materials and discussion boards.

Dr Erica Gadsby

Qualitative research and qualitative analysis are central aspects of health research. They are particularly valued ways to seek the views and experiences of patients as well as those delivering or organising health services. Qualitative approaches are also increasingly used to add nuance and understanding to randomised controlled trials.
You’ll develop a wide range of transferable skills during this module that will boost your career opportunities, including:

• Team-working – working with peers to do a group task
• IT skills – developing skills in using QSR NVivo, qualitative analysis software that is one of the industry standards
• Presentation skills – presenting the results of your analysis in a team presentation
• Qualitative data analysis – using real data to develop your skills
• Writing skills – writing up the results of your analysis