Overview
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to using NVivo to analyse qualitative and mixed-methods research projects.
Initially, we provide participants with the basic skills and knowledge needed to run a simple qualitative data-based study within the NVivo package, including effectively managing and analysing different types of data including text, image, audio, and video.
After the foundational training, the course progresses to the next level to perform more complex analyses, such as comparing the responses across different groups, incorporating demographic variables, integrating survey data for mixed method analysis within an NVivo project, and using NVivo for literature reviews. By the end of this course, participants will be able to use NVivo to manage, analyse, and report different types of research data in their NVivo project with confidence.
"Loved the opportunity to do an in person course and meet others doing research from around the country" [2025 attendee]
Meet your course leads
Dr Haleema Sadia is Lecturer in Education at the University of Manchester. She is the unit director of a unit called ‘Using NVivo for Qualitative and Mixed Methods Analysis', which is part of the MSc Research Methods, which has pathways in a number of disciplines such as education, human geography, international development and planning and environmental management.
Dr Pauline Prevett is Senior Lecturer in Education at the University of Manchester. She is the programme director for the above MSc in Research Methods and is a unit tutor on the ‘Using NVivo’ unit mentioned above as well as the unit director of MSc Research Methods units in approaches to qualitative data analysis and in research literacy and design. You can read about Pauline’s research and teaching interests at here.
Pauline and Haleema run a series of NVivo workshops for Research and Development at University of Manchester for PGR students using NVivo across the University of Manchester. They are also in the process of developing a web-based independent learning resource on using NVivo for the University of Manchester Library.
Course Aims
During this course you will:
- Apply a wide range of Nvivo features to develop a project and the course will help you to make informed decisions at every stage from project planning to reportage.
- Manage and use multimodal methods within a project, including visuals.
- Demonstrate and explain the methods in which NVivo can be employed in qualitative and mixed-methods data analysis.
- Develop practical skills in using NVivo for qualitative/ mixed methods studies and in literature review methodology.
- Understand the importance of rigorous and critical approaches to the visualisation of data and analysis.
- Situate the use of NVivo within wider parameters of research design and epistemology. This includes how multimodal NVivo projects can be set up and aligned with a research design including their philosophical stances (e.g. constructivism, critical realism)
Further course details
This NVivo course has structured sessions over five training days. It combines in-person instructor led discussions, live demonstration, video tutorials, guided exercises, and hands-on practice with relevant data set. Participants will have access to data resources and follow-up readings throughout the course. They are also encouraged to bring their own research data with them to work with during some parts of the sessions.
A key feature is its interactive step-by-step approach. Participants will engage in a group-based project to analyse a dataset in an NVivo project.
Structured Approach to Dataset Analysis in NVivo:
- We will take you step-by-step through the analysis of a dataset and you will have a chance to work with several different NVivo projects.
- We will cover setting up the project in NVivo, immersion in the data, gaining an overview of your dataset, developing an analysis and maintaining an audit trail, comparing categories or groups and presentation.
- The course has a strong focus on how to use NVivo, whilst emphasising the importance of maintaining synergy with the research design of the project and, hence, with its epistemology, methodology and methods.
This short video provides an introduction to our approach:
Further resources and recommended reading
Podcasts: Between The Data: Qualitative Research - Lumivero (Episode 9, 33, 34, 61)
Paul. Atkinson (ed.) (1996) Chapter 2: Concepts and Coding. In: Making sense of qualitative data : complementary research strategies . London ;; Thousand Oaks, Calif. :, SAGE. pp. 26–53.
Jackson, K. (2019) Qualitative data analysis with NVivo . 3rd edition. London, England ; Los Angeles [i.e. Thousand Oaks, Calif.] : London, England ; Los Angeles [i.e. Thousand Oaks, Calif.] : Sage Publications.
Who is most likely to benefit from attending?
PGR students, academics and researchers working in any discipline doing qualitative or mixed-methods projects with a significant qualitative element.
Any pre-requisites?
- Participants should have a basic understanding of approaches to qualitative data analysis. There is no need to have used NVivo before attending the course.
- Participants should bring their own laptop (with charging cable) and if possible you should bring an external mouse for your laptop.
- You will need to install Nvivo ahead of the course. Ideally this should be the full licensed version of either Nvivo 12 plus or Nvivo 14 (e.g. via your University IT services).
- The course leads can offer technical support with installation after registration to ensure a smooth setup if needed.
More details will be sent to attendees after registration.
Course Timetable
This course will run 30 June to 4 July 2025.
Course fee:
- Full price: £900
- PGR/reduced rate: £600
As well as PGRs, reduced fees are also available to those working within the voluntary, charity and community sector. We also have two bursary options available for those entitled to reduced fees. Please view more information on our page here to find out your eligibility and how to apply.
Book Your Place
Please purchase via our online store below before 20 June (payment by card only). If you any questions, or will have trouble purchasing by this date please get in touch with methods@manchester.ac.uk.
Any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on methods@manchester.ac.uk
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