Research methods courses can help you learn qualitative and quantitative analysis, survey design, data collection techniques, and statistical reasoning. You can build skills in critical thinking, hypothesis testing, and interpreting research findings across various disciplines. Many courses introduce tools like SPSS, R, and NVivo, that support analyzing data and visualizing results, enabling you to apply your skills in real-world research projects.

University of Amsterdam
Skills you'll gain: Qualitative Research, Scientific Methods, Statistical Analysis, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Research, Research Design, Sampling (Statistics), Research Reports, Science and Research, Interviewing Skills, Data Analysis, Data Collection, Research Methodologies, Social Sciences, Surveys, Quantitative Research, Statistics, Regression Analysis, Statistical Inference, R Programming
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

American Psychological Association
Skills you'll gain: Institutional Review Board (IRB), Data Visualization, Descriptive Statistics, Quantitative Research, Plot (Graphics), Data Literacy, Scientific Methods, Graphing, Research Design, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Probability & Statistics, Research, Statistical Inference, Statistics, Statistical Analysis, Surveys, Sample Size Determination, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Data Analysis, Research and Design
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Data Storytelling, Qualitative Research, Market Research, Quantitative Research, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Benchmarking, Data Presentation, Descriptive Statistics, Competitive Analysis, Interactive Data Visualization, Analytical Skills, Research Design, Market Dynamics, Data Analysis, Data Visualization Software, Statistical Reporting, Data Collection, Data Analysis Software, Microsoft Excel, R Programming
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

American Psychological Association
Skills you'll gain: Qualitative Research, Interviewing Skills, Case Studies, Research, Research Methodologies, Data Analysis, Data Collection, Social Sciences, Research Design, Psychology, Cultural Diversity, Analytical Skills, Anthropology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Surveys, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Focus Group, Quantitative Research, Qualitative Research, Data Synthesis, Market Research, Proposal Writing, Data Storytelling, Statistical Analysis, Presentations, Discussion Facilitation, Marketing Analytics, Marketing, Research Methodologies, Data Analysis, Data Visualization Software, Market Analysis, Business Research, Data Collection
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Skills you'll gain: Quantitative Research, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Descriptive Statistics, Data Analysis, Statistical Reporting, Statistics, Research Design, Statistical Analysis, Microsoft Excel, Research Methodologies, Research, R Programming, Data Presentation, Surveys, Data Collection, Data Ethics
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Excel Formulas, Microsoft Excel, Data Cleansing, Data Analysis, Data Import/Export, Spreadsheet Software, Data Wrangling, Data Quality, Pivot Tables And Charts, Google Sheets, Data Manipulation, Data Science, Information Privacy
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Queen Mary University of London
Skills you'll gain: Qualitative Research, Proposal Development, Market Research, Research Reports, Data Collection, Research Design, Research Methodologies, Analytics, Data Analysis, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Survey Creation, Statistical Analysis, Surveys, Correlation Analysis, Quantitative Research, Research, Science and Research, Market Analysis, Focus Group, Regression Analysis
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of California, Davis
Skills you'll gain: Surveys, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Quantitative Research, Statistical Analysis, Marketing Analytics, Market Research, Data Analysis, Marketing, Target Market, Market Analysis, Regression Analysis, Sample Size Determination, Quality Control
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Skills you'll gain: Data Collection, Research Design, Research Methodologies, Qualitative Research, Data Ethics, Quantitative Research, Data Integration, Data Presentation, Data Storytelling, Research, Report Writing, Surveys, Interactive Data Visualization, Stakeholder Communications, Presentations, Data Analysis, Data Management, Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Unsupervised Learning, SPSS, Applied Machine Learning, Machine Learning, Data Preprocessing, Machine Learning Algorithms, Statistical Analysis, Model Evaluation, Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Data Visualization
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Stanford University
Skills you'll gain: Descriptive Statistics, Statistics, Statistical Methods, Sampling (Statistics), Statistical Analysis, Data Analysis, Statistical Modeling, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis, Statistical Inference, Probability, Exploratory Data Analysis, Quantitative Research, Probability Distribution
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Research methods are systematic approaches used to gather, analyze, and interpret data. They are crucial for ensuring that research findings are valid, reliable, and applicable to real-world situations. Understanding research methods allows individuals to critically evaluate studies, make informed decisions, and contribute to knowledge in various fields. Whether in social sciences, health, or market research, mastering these methods equips you with the tools to explore questions and solve problems effectively.‎
A background in research methods can open doors to various career paths. Jobs in this field include research analyst, market researcher, data scientist, and academic researcher. Organizations across sectors, including healthcare, education, and business, seek professionals who can design studies, analyze data, and derive actionable insights. With the growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making, expertise in research methods is increasingly valuable.‎
To excel in research methods, you should develop a range of skills. Key competencies include statistical analysis, critical thinking, data interpretation, and familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Additionally, proficiency in software tools for data analysis, such as SPSS or R, can enhance your capabilities. Strong communication skills are also essential for presenting findings clearly and effectively.‎
Several online courses can help you learn research methods effectively. Notable options include the Understanding Research Methods course, which provides a comprehensive overview, and the Qualitative Research Methods course, focusing on qualitative techniques. For those interested in market research, the Market Research Methods and Data Analysis Certificate Specialization offers targeted training.‎
Yes. You can start learning research methods on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in research methods, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning research methods can be approached through various avenues. Start by enrolling in online courses that cover both theoretical and practical aspects. Engage in hands-on projects to apply what you learn, and consider collaborating with peers or mentors in research settings. Reading academic journals and participating in workshops can also enhance your understanding and keep you updated on the latest methodologies.‎
Research methods courses typically cover a range of topics, including the fundamentals of qualitative and quantitative research, data collection techniques, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations in research. You may also explore specific methodologies, such as mixed methods research or user research methods, depending on the course focus. This comprehensive curriculum prepares you to tackle diverse research challenges.‎
For training and upskilling employees, courses like the Application of Health Equity Research Methods for Practice and Policy and the Mixed Methods Research: Bridging Qualitative & Quantitative course are excellent choices. These programs provide practical skills and insights that can be directly applied in the workplace, enhancing the overall research capabilities of your team.‎