Watson Institute for International StudiesBrown University

Research Methods

Most coursework for the IR concentration is done in the social sciences, which employs quantitative (formal models, computer analysis of quantitative data, and statistics) and qualitative (case studies, ethnographic studies, interviews) techniques of analysis. Concentrators should have basic literacy in social science research methods and skills in order to perform well in courses required for the concentration. IR concentrators must satisfactorily complete one of the following qualitative or quantitative methods courses prior to graduation (prior to senior year is recommended). Students interested in the honors program must have completed the research methods requirement no later than their 7th semester.

  • APMA0650
  • APMA1650
  • ANTH1940
  • PHP1320
  • ECON1620
  • ECON 1630
  • EDUC1100
  • EDUC1110
  • HIST1972E
  • POLS0500
  • POLS1600
  • PSYCH0090
  • SOC1020
  • SOC1050
  • SOC1100

Essential Statistics
Statistical Inference I
Ethnographic Research Methods (AN 148)
Social Science Research in Health Care
Introduction to Econometrics
Econometrics I

Introduction to Qual. Research Methods
Introductory Statistics for Education Research

Word of Mouth: Orality & Memory Historiography & Doc. Film
Foundations of Political Analysis
Political Research Methods
Quantitative Methods in Psych. (CG 9)
Methods of Social Research
Methods of Research in Organizations
Introductory Statistics for Social Research

Note: AP, IB, or A-level credits may not be substituted for the IR research methods requirement. Students with this background should take a higher level methods course or balance their background with a different type of methods course (i.e., quantitative vs. qualitative).

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