Graduate School of Public Policy
Graduate School of Public Policy
Graduate School of Public Policy

Exploring Qualitative Methods for Policy Research
The program is intended for post-graduates and faculty members of local Universities interested in social science research in general and public policy research, analysis, and evaluation in particular.
NU Graduate School of Public Policy
About the Programme
The program provides a comprehensive introduction to qualitative research methods, beginning with an overview of different research designs and the process of selecting appropriate analytical tools tailored to specific research questions. The initial sessions will help participants understand the critical importance of matching research objectives with suitable methodologies.

As the program progresses, participants will delve into a variety of qualitative research methods, with hands-on practice integrated into each session. These methods include case study and comparative analysis, action research, discourse analysis, focus groups, and interviews. Each method will be explored in depth, allowing participants to understand the nuances of how and when to apply these techniques in real-world policy research scenarios. Practical exercises during the training will reinforce learning, providing participants the opportunity to directly apply their newly gained knowledge through structured in-class practice.

By the end of this intensive three-day program, participants are expected to have developed a strong foundation in conceptualizing and executing qualitative research projects, equipping them with the necessary skills to conduct robust research independently. A key feature of the training is the practical lab work, where participants will gain hands-on experience using Nvivo software to analyze qualitative data.
  • Date and Duration
    2025, for 3 days
  • Format and Language
    offline, training is conducted in Russian
  • Programme Fee
    fees are currently being finalized;
    sign up to be notified as soon as it's available!
What you can gain?

By the end of the program, you will be able to

  • understand the nature of research and types of research designs;
  • be able to identify the research topic and formulate research question;
  • learn qualitative methods including case study, action research, and discourse analysis;
  • learn sampling techniques and approaches to conducting interviews and focus groups;
  • practice analyzing and coding qualitative data using Nvivo software.
Who can join?

  • Researchers in government and quasi-government institutions responsible for conducting policy research, evaluation, and analysis;
  • Academics and faculty members, as well as postgraduate students specializing in social sciences, political science, public administration, or public policy;
  • Consultants and professionals working on public sector or social science research projects that demand qualitative analysis;
  • NGO and think tank researchers involved in policy research, program evaluation, and advocacy efforts.
  • Dr. Dina Sharipova
    Associate Professor and Vice Dean for Research, NU Graduate School of Public Policy (NU GSPP)
    Dr. Dina Sharipova received her Ph.D. in Political Science from Indiana University, Bloomington, in 2013. Prior to joining NU GSPP she worked as a Research Director of the College of Social Sciences, (KIMEP University, 2016-2018) and served on the board on the Board of the European Society for Central Asian (2016-2019). Currently, Dr. Sharipova is a member of an Editorial Board for Central Asian Survey. Dr. Sharipova has taught courses on Research Design and Methodology, Advanced Qualitative Methods, Ethics in Public Policy, and other. Her research interests include nation and state-building, formal and informal institutions, identity politics, and social capital and well-being in Central Asia.
  • Dr. Zhanibek Arynov
    Assistant Professor, NU Graduate School of Public Policy (NU GSPP)
    Dr. Zhanibek Arynov first joined the School as a Postdoctoral Scholar in July 2019. Dr. Arynov obtained a Ph.D. degree in International Relations from the University of St. Andrews, UK. His research interests include Central Asian geopolitics, Kazakhstan’s foreign policy, EU-Central Asia relations, and international identity, image and perception studies. He is currently working on a project related to the legitimacy and (de)legitimation of international organizations with a specific focus on the Eurasian Economic Union.

    Prior to joining NU GSPP, Zhanibek Arynov served as a Senior Expert of the Program of Eurasian Studies, Institute of World Economics and Politics (IWEP), a think-tank based in Astana, Kazakhstan.

If you have any questions, contact

Zhanar Ismailova, Senior Manager, Executive Education
Graduate School of Public Policy Nazarbayev University

Tel.: + 7 (7172) 70 64 62
Email: execed.gspp@nu.edu.kz