This course provides an introduction to the use of qualitative research methods in public health. Students will gain experience in the use and application of qualitative research methods including participant observation, in-depth and key informant interviewing, focus group discussions, systematic data collection, and document analysis. Students examine different qualitative methods and techniques and learn how they can be used alone or in conjunction with quantitative methods. The course also includes attention to topics such as credibility, transferability, dependability, triangulation, site and resource identification, sampling methods, and interview and focus group guide design. Students will focus a semester-long project on a topic of their choice. Students will gain experience with basic data analysis, including coding and memoing and development of data displays. At the end of the course, students will present the results of their research and propose next steps for future research on their topic.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the MyBU Student Portal for the most up-to-date course information.