This module aims to provide students with a broad knowledge of a range of methodological and analytical skills, which they can apply in a variety of research contexts. The module is aimed at students who have no previous experience with qualitative analysis, but who have previously studied basic quantitative techniques such as regression analysis. The module complements the coverage of quantitative methods offered in PGM0620 (Empirical Methods).

The module firstly offers students a foundation in the basic principles of qualitative research methodology. It will provide students with an introduction to the major methods of qualitative data collection and analysis, explain how qualitative data are actively constructed and interpreted by the reseracher, and offer an appreciations of the practical and epistemological concerns raised by qualitative data collection. This will include a consideration of questionnaire design, interviewing techniques, survey design and qualitative data analysis. This will be complemented by coverage of econometric methodologies which can be applied in the context of PhD study in the social sciences. This will include advanced time series analysis, event study methodology and performance measurement. Practical sessions will provide insights to the application of the techniques, including the use of relevant software.