Oxford Qualitative Courses: Short Courses in Qualitative Research Methods

The University of Oxford's expert-led programme of short courses in qualitative research methods has now moved to an online format, with the continuing aim to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to design, conduct, and interpret qualitative research.

Our courses are particularly suited to those who are planning or working on projects with a qualitative dimension, our aims are to:

• Equip health professionals, researchers and policy makers with an understanding of the different methodological approaches to qualitative research
• Support development of core skills in interviewing, running focus groups (whether virtual or face to face), conducting ethnographic observation, and data analysis.
• Combine the latest theory with the experience, knowledge and enthusiasm of our research-active tutors
• Extend knowledge and skills through our specialist courses in NVivo, qualitative evidence synthesis, and observation and ethnography

This highly-regarded programme, led by Dr Charlotte Albury will be delivered online for the 2021 academic year, using a mixture of blended learning and face-to-face virtual group work, by a team of qualitative researchers from the University of Oxford’s Medical Sociology and Health Experiences Research Group . Our group has run successful interviewing and analysis courses for over ten years alongside active involvement in qualitative research focusing on personal experiences of health conditions.

Many of the findings from our group’s research, together with supported video, audio and text extracts, have been compiled to form the multi-award winning patient experience website heathtalk.org. Our group has recently expanded to include qualitative researchers studying health services and care delivery, and methodologists at the forefront of developing qualitative methods. Our portfolio of research and expertise informs current local, national and international healthcare policy and research. 

The syllabuses of our qualitative courses draw on a wide range of expertise from within our research group, including the disciplinary areas of medical sociology, anthropology, and public policy. 

Teaching team

Our courses are led by a highly experienced and research-active teaching team. Our team have a range of specialities and skills spanning the breadth of qualitative research methods, ensuring that each session is led by a knowledgeable expert in the field. As well as being accomplished researchers, our team are skilled at communicating qualitative research methods to people in an accessible and clear way. Our team are friendly and approachable and will be available to offer tailored feedback during the course. Our participants regularly emphasise that our teaching team are a highlight of our courses.

Who are OUR courses for?

Our courses are suited to a wide range of professions, including:

• Health professionals
• Undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Academics and researchers
• Marketing and communications professionals
• Health advisers
• Education professionals