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This one-week short course, run by the Refugee Law Initiative (RLI), covers research methods and ethics relating to the interdisciplinary study of refugees and forced migration. For full information visit the Research Methods in the Refugee and Forced Migration Field Short Course page.
 

This intensive research methods course provides high-quality training in methodology and ethics, by drawing on the extensive teaching experience and networks of the RLI. The course is aimed primarily at early PhD students working on forced migration issues in the fields of social and political sciences and law. Nevertheless, it is also pertinent to early career researchers, humanitarian and development workers, civil society, and consultants working on issues relating to displaced persons.


The course will:

  • Introduce you to qualitative and quantitative research methods, with a special focus on their applications in refugee and forced migration contexts
  • Expose you to recognised best practice and ethical standards related to the study of forced migration
  • Develop your intellectual and independent research skills so you will become more confident in designing and running your own research projects

Apply


Places are limited and offered on a first come basis. To apply for a place, simply email your CV with a cover email to RLIMethods@sas.ac.uk by 4th February 2024.

We will then send you a payment link.

The University accepts Visa/Mastercard/Maestro/Solo (UK only)/Visa Debit. No other credit cards (e.g. American Express) can be accepted. If you have an issue with payment, please contact the RLI Team.

Once registered you will have access to the course’s Virtual Learning Environment:

See key information about the course, including overall approach and course structure

  • Optional introductory texts
  • Online forum to start engaging with fellow students
  • Links to take free online courses: the UOL Understanding Research Methods and the RLI’s ‘Refugees in the 21st Century’, and SAS’ ethics short course

Course Programme

This course comprises 10 modules (two per day). The course will give you a strong grounding in qualitative research methods and the fundamentals of quantitative research methods. Each module introduces a core area of research methods in social science, with particular focus on application in the refugee/ forced migration contexts.

The first half of the course introduces fundamental research principles and design in the social sciences, particularly focused on forced migration contexts. This includes the ethical considerations that must be taken into account when conducting research with refugees, and different forms of interviewing.

The second half of the course explores further research methods and tools with particular application in the refugee/forced migration context. This includes advanced qualitative research techniques such as oral history and participant observation, and quantitative research methods such as surveying and sampling. In addition to methods of data collection, this part of the course will also consider how to analyse data and the writing up of your research. In the final module, you will be provided with an opportunity to present your preliminary research proposal and receive feedback from your tutor and fellow students.


Entry Requirements

No specific academic qualifications are required to register for the course.

You will need a good standard of English to complete the course. Suggested level:

  • (IELTS) International English Language Testing System - overall score of 7.0 with at least 6 in reading.
  • (TOEFL) iBT Test of English as a Foreign Language with an overall score of 95 or above, including 24 attained on the reading skills sub-tests and 25 attained on the speaking sub-test and 22 attained on the listening sub-test.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (at grade C or above).
  • Computer requirements: You will need to bring a laptop/tablet with you to the course. We suggest a minimum basic computer competency because your study resources are accessed via a VLE.

Fees

The fee for the Research Methods in the Refugee and Forced Migration Field Short Course is:

  • Standard | £1,100
  • SAS/UoL PhD Students/RLI Affiliates/ those with a displacement background | £950

Please note:

  • Bookings cannot be made for individual days of the courses. Attendance is for the full five days
  • Bookings are non-refundable once course materials have been shared
  • The fee does not include accommodation or food
  • You will need to bring a laptop/tablet with you to London