Qualitative research in Indian postgraduate psychology and social work programmes: a study on curriculum content coverage and graduates’ perspectives

Abstract

ABSTRACTAlthough gaining prominence in recent years, the qualitative research paradigm appears less taught and minimally employed across disciplines. In this context, the present study attempted to understand whether the Indian postgraduate psychology and social work programmes adequately covered qualitative research content in their curriculum. In addition, we explored the experiences and perspectives of graduates on the curriculum and learning qualitative research during their Master’s. The study was conducted in two phases. First, we have undertaken an on-desk research involving content analysis of the curriculum of Master’s programmes in psychology and social work across 71 publically funded universities in India. The second phase included qualitative interviews with 33 graduates who had completed their Master’s degrees from the selected universities, and the data were analyzed thematically. Most universities did not have a separate course on qualitative research (N = 65), and the research methods were taught through a single course dominated by the quantitative approach. Qualitative content is minuscule in the course, covering basic topics across universities. Furthermore, four themes emerged from the perspectives of graduates: minimal qualitative content, lack of qualitative traditions, least experts, and misconceptions. This study implies the importance of a diversified curriculum with different research paradigms to strengthen students’ capabilities.