This course will provide intermediate level instruction in the use of qualitative methods in health services research, clinical research, policy, and medical education research. It is intended as part of a suite of qualitative methodology courses available to IHPME students. Students who are in the initial to mid stages of designing and conducting their thesis research will be exposed to intense instruction related to issues in field research, including: study design; data collection; analysis; and writing. Students will be expected to come to class prepared to actively engage in group discussions and to discuss their own thesis work. Students who complete this course will be able to begin conducting qualitative research.

Objectives: after completing this course, students will: 1) Be able to choose and apply the various philosophical foundations, traditions, and methods grouped under the rubric of "qualitative research" and appreciate the complexity of doing qualitative research. 2) Have experience with and able to apply the main techniques used for gathering qualitative data. 3) Have experience with and be able to apply the different analytic strategies used in qualitative research, including coding and development of themes. 4) Have experience with and be able to write up the results of a qualitative study.