This Qualitative Research Methods course aims to enable students to explore the purpose and appropriate use of qualitative research methods in public health. The course introduces basic principles of conducting research using interviews, focus groups and observation and explores issues around the analysis of qualitative data.

The course is delivered over the latter half of semester one and the first half of semester two.

A 3,000 word written assignment.

To enable students' developed understanding and acquisition of principal skills in relation to qualitative research methods relevant to public health practice.

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Critically appraise qualitative research designs relevant to public health.

Analyse the assumptions that underpin the qualitative research paradigm and its methodologies in relation to the evidence base of modern public health practice.

Critically compare the practical and methodological challenges associated with a range of qualitative methodologies and methods.

Propose qualitative research designs in response to public health knowledge gaps.

Effectively code, categorise and analyse qualitative data generated through the application of one methodology.

Critically analyse the role of qualitative research in the developing evidence base of public health practice.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.