Qualitative Research in PA

The course is divided into five sections: (1) Introduction to the logic of empirical qualitative research in Public Administration, (2) Research design and case selection in qualitative studies, (3) Data collection methods in qualitative research (e.g., interviews, focus groups, document analysis and ethnographic observation), (4) Qualitative data analysis techniques (e.g., thematic analysis, coding and process tracing), (5) Interpretation and presentation of qualitative research findings.

Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on the connection between research questions, methodological choices, and empirical results.

This course provides students with the theoretical grounding and methodological tools needed to design and conduct qualitative research in the field of Public Administration. Emphasis is placed on understanding the logic of qualitative inquiry, exploring diverse data collection and analysis methods, and applying these approaches in an independent research project.

In presence

The course combines lectures to introduce students to foundational concepts and key literature, with interactive components such as the critical review of existing studies, hands-on exercises, and presentations from guest speakers. Several sessions will also be dedicated to individual or group work aimed at supporting the development of students' research projects.

The final grade is composed of:

• Two quizzes testing the knowledge of core theoretical concepts in qualitative research (30%).
• The preparation of an individual written qualitative research project to be discussed during an oral exam  (70%).