Qualitative Research Methods

Online Certificate Program

ETSU Online

A Unique Interdisciplinary Experience

This research methods-based graduate certificate is truly interdisciplinary, drawing on courses across seven different departments. The certificate is practical in nature and will train students in designing qualitative research studies to answer social science questions, engage in appropriate data collection methods, apply a variety of data analysis approaches, and learn the best ways to report research findings for individual audiences. Throughout all of these aspects, there is a focus on the latest research technologies.

Program information including curriculum and graduation requirements can be found in the ETSU Graduate Catalog.

Earn a Research Credential

This certificate provides a research methods credential for those working in academic, industry, non-profits or other venues that makes them uniquely qualified to conduct qualitative research studies for their employers.

What are the benefits of completing this certificate?

  • improve graduates’ competitive status on the job market,
  • assist students in degree programs that have limited room for advanced methodological training,
  • allow students to benefit from faculty expertise in a variety of fields,
  • enhance working professionals’ research design skills utilizing qualitative data collection and analysis methods.

This certificate can be completed alongside another graduate degree, or as a stand-alone program. Courses are offered fully online, fully in person or as a mix of the two.

Four Classes

Strengthen skills to answer research questions in the social sciences and health sciences.

 

1 Foundations Course | 1 Digital Qualitative Research Methods Course | 2 Advisor Approved Electives

View Courses

Steps to Apply

  • Step 1 - Create your ETSU Application Account

    Step 1   Create your ETSU Application Account by choosing the "Sign Up" option

    Create your ETSU Application Account

  • Step 2 - Sign into the ETSU Application Portal

    Step 2  Sign in to the ETSU Application Portal and select "Start a New Application"

    Sign in

  • Step 3 - Complete the Remaining Fields

    Step 3   Choose "Graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "Certificate," term, then choose  Qualitative Research Methods and complete the remainder of the form.

    select domestic/international

    select certificate

Apply Today!

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Cost

Credits to complete this program: 12 credit hours
Please note that enrollment in an on-ground course affects out-of-state student eRate eligibility.

TN Residents *eRate Out of State
$672 per credit hour $835.50 per credit hour $1,513 per credit hour
- The *eRate applies to students living out of state and taking all web-based courses.
- Additional fees may be required.
- Visit the Paying for College page to read more about costs and financial aid options.
- The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What accreditations apply to this program?

    East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website  (www.sacscoc.org).

  • Do students need to have a background in this field? 

    A bachelor’s degree required for admission. However, the degree does not have to be in a specific discipline.

  • Are the courses for this program asynchronous or synchronous?

    Courses for this program may be offered in synchronous or asynchronous format depending on the semester and instructor. There are four foundations classes to choose from and two digital methods classes to choose from, along with 13 elective courses.

  • Does this program have any on campus requirements?

    This program does not have any on campus requirements at this time.

  • What is the time to completion?

    The time to completion depends on how many courses students take per semester. Most students complete the certificate in two to four semesters.

  • When can I start? 

    Students may begin in the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.

  • Are scholarships available?

    There are no scholarships for this certificate, specifically. ETSU's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships offers scholarship information for all student levels. By submitting the Universal Scholarship Application, students can be considered for a variety of university scholarships. Learn more on the ETSU Scholarship website. Students are also encouraged to visit the Paying for Graduate School website for information regarding ETSU graduate scholarships and other financial resources.