Research Methods for Social Work

This course is designed to provide doctoral students a foundational understanding of basic research processes and methods. Topics covered in the course include: problem formation, use of theory, conceptualization, measurement, research design (including experimental, non-experimental, and observational designs), data collection, overview of qualitative and quantitative methods, the logics of causal analysis and inference, and writing research proposals and reports. Throughout the course, students will explore what it means to apply social work research methods to real world problems and settings, including an analysis of power inherent in research processes as well as anti-oppressive approaches. Students will be introduced to the language and major concepts of research methods, on which they can scaffold future methodological and analytic courses. Course assignments will provide students an opportunity to apply research concepts to their own substantive area of interest.