Course for PhDs and beyond

Fundamentals of Research Design

Course Description: In this course, participants will study the most important concepts, principles, approaches, and practices involved in the production of a rigorous, convincing research design. This course will enable participants to:

  • effectively communicate with other scholars about their research design choices;
  • effectively align their choice of methods (for data collection and data analysis) with their research question;
  • identify and reflect on the various tradeoffs involved in designing research;
  • develop a clear overview of the main research traditions in social science and legal research; and
  • assess the promises and limitations of combining different research methods, approaches or disciplines within the same research design.

Prior Requirements: None.

When: The course has 4 classes, on the following dates:

  • 20 November 2025, 14:00-16:00
  • 27 November 2025, 14:00-16:00
  • 04 December 2025, 14:00-16:00
  • 11 December 2025, 14:00-16:00

Maximum of external participants: The course has up to five spots available for staff from other universities.

Lecturer: Dr. Alexandru Voicu.

Registration deadline: Anytime before the start of the course. For questions and registration, please contact n.n.n.vandongen@uva.nl.

Extra information: The courses will be offered in English and in-person in the A building on the Roeterseiland Campus of the UvA.