Qualitative Research Methods for Nutrition

Course Description

NUTR 310 teaches principles and practical skills of qualitative inquiry in an interactive seminar format. Participants will learn how to design and carry out qualitative research through weekly background readings and written assignments, critical case-study discussions, and practical class exercises. They will also take part in the design, implementation, analysis, and evaluation of a local qualitative research project that involves practical, hands-on experience. The first part of the course will focus on the foundations of qualitative inquiry, qualitative methods, their strengths and challenges, standards for quality, and tools for critical assessment of insights derived from these methods. The second part of the course will be dedicated to learning how to design qualitative studies, including data collection, data management strategies, and approaches to data analysis. Participants will gain practical experience by developing and implementing a small research study, which will include the elements of research design, field-note documentation, participant observation, in-depth interviews, focus groups, visual methods, analysis, and writing/dissemination. Students should have exposure to research methods in social or health sciences prior to enrollment in this course. Prerequisites: NUTR 207 or NUTR 206 and either NUTR 204 or NUTR 210 or instructor consent.

Basic Enrollment Requirements: Unofficial Transcript - Bachelor's + 3.0 GPA. You will be contacted after registration for required evidence of immunization. 

Instructor Approval: During registration, you will be asked to explain how you meet the pre-requisites for this course and to describe any relevant experience. The instructor will use this information to confirm your enrollment or will otherwise be in touch with you. 

Refund Policy: The refund policy for Courses at Tufts offerings is dependent on the course length. Please refer to the section details to confirm any exceptions to the standard refund policy. The refund policies are viewable here: https://universitycollege.tufts.edu/policies#Refunds 

Remission Eligible: Yes; all university policies apply.