Graduate Certificate in Qualitative Studies
The Carter Thought Lab plays an integral role in the Graduate Certificate in Qualitative Studies program, an opportunity for any UNC-Chapel Hill graduate student interested in conducting methodologically sound, rigorous, evidence-based qualitative research. Students in the program are given the opportunity to learn from a variety of techniques from faculty members across campus and tailor the focus of their studies towards their individual research and career goals.
Certificate candidates are required to participate in Lab‑sponsored activities, which bring students together in a collaborative environment to apply and deepen their qualitative research training.
In addition to access to qualitative software, the Lab offers three structured activity pathways that support student engagement — an essential component of the Certificate. Students will also have the opportunity to attend any guest lectures, workshops, and discussion groups facilitated as part of the Lab.
Certificate Founder & Co-Director: Sherick Hughes, Ph.D.
Certificate Co-Director: Stephanie Anne Shelton, Ph.D.
Student Engagement Pathways
Research-Oriented Engagement
Students may participate in research-oriented activities connected to I-SEEC Change, the overarching vision of the Lab.
Teaching-Oriented Engagement
Students may develop mastery of specific software tools and demonstrate that expertise by teaching the software through workshops, within courses, and/or to small groups interested in learning the software.
Service-Oriented Engagement
Students may contribute to the development of an online repository of teaching ideas, practices, units, and exercises appropriate for introductory qualitative research methods courses.
A Proud Part of the UNC School of Education
The Carter Thought Lab and Graduate Certificate in Qualitative Studies are a part of the vibrant research community within the UNC School of Education. The School’s interdisciplinary, mission‑driven environment supports students in developing meaningful research, collaborating across fields, and producing work that has real impact in educational settings.
Explore Related Work
Learn more about the Interpretive Research Suite and Bruce A. Carter Qualitative Thought Laboratory’s research and collaborative projects.