Research Methods

Module Description

This module is designed for learners who want and need to gain understanding of research approaches and skills and gain an ability to deploy research methods in their studies or in professional lives. In particular, this module will aid those who have to conduct research as part of their postgraduate studies and it is for those who feel they would like additional support for self-improvement.

This module is a comprehensive introduction to research methods and will cover broad topics:  the fundamentals of doing research, research methods, research design, data collection, and data analysis. In discussing each topic, the ethical implications of research will be covered. Research is a craft, and like any other craft, it takes practice to do it well. Therefore, this module places the student experience at the centre of our endeavours by engaging learners in a range of robust and challenging discussions and exercises. Learners will have opportunity to learn by doing in all aspects of the course—in class meetings, online classroom, and out-of-class assignments.

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course must possess one of the following:

• Level 6 Degree and 3 years’ work experience;

OR

• a Level 5 diploma or higher diploma and 5 years’ work experience in a supervisory or managerial role.

Preference is given to applicants having a Level 6 degree in a discipline related to the study programme and a minimum of 3 years’ work experience in management.

Target Audience

The target group focuses primarily on public administration practitioners, managers and officials from ministries, local authorities and public and private bodies, public leaders and CEOs from the public and private sector, policy practitioners from the private sector and civil society organisations.

How you’ll be assessed

This is a part-time programme and will typically take 30 months to complete. The programme comprises a total of 10 modules. The method of assessment is assignment-based.  

The course comprises:  

• 6 lectures per module; 
• 3-hour lectures (evening); 
• 12 hours of online content per module, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.