Program Overview

Qualitative Research Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Qualitative Research is a 15-credit course sequence that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications and field-based experiences. Although this certificate is housed in the College of Education, students from all disciplines are welcome to apply.

Admissions

To be considered for regular admission, an application must include:

• Statement of Purpose focusing on the student’s goals in pursuing a Qualitative Research certificate
• Writing sample, involving qualitative research, submitted directly to the department for faculty consideration
• Student must either be enrolled in a doctoral program or have a master's degree

It is recommended to apply after successful completion of either BER 630 Qualitative Case Study Research or BER 631 Inquiry as Interpretation: Qualitative Research I with a grade of B or better.

Curricular Requirements

The following courses are required:

• BER 632: Reflect Resist: Qual II (3 hours)
• BER 633: Ethics & Aesthc: Qual III (3 hours)
• BER 687: Field Work Educ Research (3 hours)
• TWO elective BER Qualitative Research courses, which may include:
  • BER 630: Qual Case Study Research
  • BER 634: Narrative Inquiry
  • BER 635: Materialist Theories in Qual
  • BER 636: Qualitative Interviewing
  • BER 637: Arts-Based Research
  • BER 638: Social Justice in Qual
  • BER 695: Spec Top in Ed Research (with a qualitative research focus) Total Hours: 15

Certificate Completion Requirements

To complete the certificate, students must:

1. Complete all course requirements listed above, with a grade of B or better, and successful completion of BER 687 Field Work Educ Research
2. Present a capstone in the Department of Educational Studies Annual Southeastern Universities Graduate Research Symposium (SUGRS)

Time Limit for Certificate Completion

Coursework must be completed within six (6) years.