Quantitative Research and Analysis

Gain an understanding of the methods and concepts of quantitative research, knowledge of data sources and a critical understanding of why we use quantitative approaches.

Key facts

  • Module codeNURP005
  • Start date The next intake will be confirmed in March 2024.
  • Duration11 weeks
  • Credit value SCQF 20
  • SCQF level Level 11
  • Fees 2023-24: £778.
  • Mode of study part time
  • Delivery online

Overview

Quantitative methods and approaches are central to healthcare research. They explore such questions as the incidence and prevalence of disease, and are drawn on to analyse the results of randomised controlled trials or to explore the views and attitudes of the general population or specific population groups via large surveys.

The module will explore:

  • approaches to quantitative research;
  • organising and using quantitative data;
  • developing analytical skills using software provided by the university.

Flexible learning

This short course forms part of the MRes Health Research (Online). You can study other stand-alone continuing professional development (CPD) short courses from this degree:

If you’re interested in studying more than one module from this course, please email our Admissions team at postgraduate.admissions@stir.ac.uk to discuss your course of study.

Entrance requirements

The module is suitable for professionals from a wide range of health and social care backgrounds, as well as students from other academic disciplines.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

  • IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) 56 overall with a minimum of 51 in each sub-skill.
  • IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

See our information on English language requirements for more details on the language tests we accept and options to waive these requirements.

Objectives

By the end of the module we aim for students to be able to demonstrate:

  • an understanding of the methods and concepts of quantitative research;
  • knowledge of data sources;
  • a critical understanding of why we use quantitative approaches;
  • a proficiency in the use of statistical software for analysis of data;
  • an ability to communicate findings clearly and concisely;
  • an ability to apply knowledge of methods to analysis.

Structure and content

This module:

  • provides an accessible introduction to quantitative analysis;
  • includes both theoretical and practical content;
  • uses lectures and reading to explain the theory behind the use of statistics;
  • gives you the opportunity to carry out guided analysis with support through podcasts, worksheets and Q&A sessions via real-time online seminars.

You will be encouraged to consider how the application of quantitative research methods can be utilised in your own area of practice.

Delivery and assessment

The module will be delivered using a range of online approaches that may include webinars, podcasted lectures and other activities such as reading, quizzes and discussion boards.  

There is a single assessment for this module. The assessment will provide a means for you to demonstrate critical understanding of the use of quantitative data, proficiency in using spreadsheets and a statistical computing package, and will develop your ability in communicating numerical information and creatively applying quantitative research to a research question.

Module coordinator

Dr Emma France

Employability

Most of our students are already working in health or social care prior to commencement and remain employed throughout the duration of their studies.

Our students develop a wide range of transferable skills during their study that make them attractive to other employers, eg:

  • team working;
  • IT skills;
  • literature searching;
  • critical appraisal;
  • presentation skills;
  • writing and data analysis.

Career opportunities

The MRes Health Research is designed for students who wish to pursue a variety of different careers in health where research is a core component. Students wish to make a contribution to applied research in a range of contemporary health and social contexts.

Most of our students are employed as health professionals whilst they study part-time with us. When they complete their studies most students will stay in their clinical speciality but use their enhanced research skills/knowledge in their roles e.g. by conducting their own research or service evaluations.

Some students wish to use their Masters study as preparation for a PhD. Our students have been very successful in gaining recognition for their research work and for winning funding for PhD study.

What next?

Contact us

If you have any questions about entry requirements for our continuing professional development and short courses, contact our Admissions team.

For all other questions, please use our enquiry form.