SOC 6150

Qualitative, Survey, and Mixed Method Approaches to Policy Research

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Introduces students to theories and methods of data collection techniques such as in-depth interviews, ethnography, focus groups, and surveys as well as mixed-method approaches used in policy and evaluation research. Addresses the strengths and weaknesses of various methods and the design of qualitative and mixed-method studies. Covers epistemology, ethics, induction and deduction, measurement, validity, and triangulation. Also discusses more concrete issues such as gaining access to a field site, developing a qualitative interview guide and survey questionnaire, conducting a qualitative interview, managing data, and assessing data quality. (MPA-DA, MPA-DATSCI, MPA-TPA)

Enrollment Priority Enrollment limited to: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students. Master of Public Administration (MPA) students may enroll with instructor approval. Recommended prerequisite: previous course in social science research methods.

Program Requirements (MPA-DA, MPA-DATSCI, MPA-TPA)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2024FA, 2022FA, 2021FA

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