Master of Health Science

Analyses and synthesises quantitative methodologies and statistical data analysis procedures. Develops research proposals to scientifically evaluate discipline specific health care practices. The content covers understanding and use of SPSS statistical software, preliminary data management techniques, quantitative data analysis theory and procedures, development of research questions, development of aims and hypotheses, application of research designs and methods and preparation of a detailed research proposal. Learning outcomes include demonstrate advanced expertise in managing, exploring, analysing, and interpreting quantitative data; demonstrate advanced knowledge of aims/hypotheses, research designs, evaluation strategies, and statistical analysis procedures as they relate to quantitative research projects and present work at the appropriate academic standard.

This 15-credit course is delivered via online lectures with direct contact with lecturers available by email, phone, or on-campus scheduled appointments. Assessment is by SPSS assignment and proposal assignment.

Analyses the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of qualitative methodologies and the application of congruent methods (internal consistency) in relation to issues of rigour, and ethical and socio-cultural-political considerations. Content includes qualitative research methodologies, planning a qualitative research proposal, incorporating te Tiriti o Waitangi within different qualitative methodologies, addressing inequities through research, issues related to the qualitative research process including sampling, data collection, safely and rigorously working with Māori data, organisation and analysis of data (including use of computer programs), methodological internal consistency, rigour, and ethical and socio-cultural- political issues and research grants and funding/opportunities. Learning outcomes include synthesise knowledge, understanding and skills that are necessary to enable the planning of a qualitative research study focussed on a discipline specific issue; apply Tiriti o Waitangi partnership principles when planning research; demonstrate internal consistency between topic, research question, aim, methodology and methods for a qualitative research project and critique literature in relation to research issue and methodology.

This 15-credit course is delivered online via lectures, group work, guided activities including readings and online activities. The course is assessed by written assignment (4000 words).

The 60-credit Practise Project involves the application of research methodology with respect to the conception, development, implementation, critical interpretation, and communication of scholarly research. The topic is normally selected in consultation with the programme leader/potential supervisor and approved through the faculty academic processes. Learning outcomes include formulate the research question or define the research issue, critically review knowledge relevant to the research, plan and implement research using the selected methodology and methods/tools that address the question or issue, provide a critical commentary on the research process and outcomes, reflect on and evaluate the significance of the research in the discipline area and present work at the appropriate academic standard.

A supervision agreement is developed mutually between student and supervisor(s) during the development of the proposal, including the Codes of Practice for supervision and research, and working within policies and processes for undertaking postgraduate research, including ethics.

The 90 credit thesis requires the application of research methodology with respect to the conception, development, implementation, critical interpretation, and communication of scholarly research. The topic will be applied to an HFE context, agreed in consultation with the programme leader/potential supervisor and approved through the faculty academic processes. Learning outcomes include formulate the research question or define the research issue, critically review knowledge relevant to the research, plan and implement research using the selected methodology and methods/tools that address the question or issue, provide a critical commentary on the research process and outcomes, reflect on and evaluate the significance of the research in the discipline area and present work at the appropriate academic standard.

A supervision agreement is developed mutually between student and supervisor(s) during the development of the proposal, including the Codes of Practice for supervision and research, and working within policies and processes for undertaking postgraduate research, including ethics.

The thesis is presented in the traditional thesis structure and includes chapters related to introduction, literature review, methodology/ methods, data analysis, discussion and conclusions. It fits within the word requirement of 20,000 (excluding bibliographies and appendices).