2009 Research for Development Graduate Program

The Research for Development Graduate program is a three phase academic program that is open to all graduate students at Seattle University. This program introduces students to the acquisition and application of participatory based research methods used by non-government organizations (NGOs) in the field of international development in developing countries. Click here for the program's main page.

Phase One: Spring Quarter

PUBM 593 (3 credits)
Applied Research for Non-government Organizations

PHASE ONE consists of a Qualitative Research Methods course. Students are introduced to various qualitative research methodologies, research paradigms, research question formulation, analysis of results and written presentation skills. Course content also includes practical aspects of writing field notes, carrying out field interviews and analyzing preliminary data information.

Phase Two: Summer Quarter

PUBM 595 (3 OR 6 credits)
Research for Development Internship

PHASE TWO is a summer internship for six weeks. Students are placed with NGOs in developing countries to be engaged in participatory research and evaluation as specified by their NGOs. Many NGOs are engaged in projects pertaining to issues of poverty reduction, health care, civil society governance, education, peace and conflict, migration and human rights. Internships are available in Africa and Southeast Asia.

Phase Three: Fall Quarter Research Consortium

PUBM 591 (1-3 credits)
Special Topics

PHASE THREE requires students to write a comprehensive paper of their research findings that includes a description of the project, data collected, and research outcomes. Students present their research findings at a Seattle University research consortium.