What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will acquire in-depth knowledge of a comprehensive range of quantitative research methods and analytical techniques. You will also gain practical experience with professional analysis software such as SPSS.
Specific research techniques covered may include sampling, questionnaire design, multivariate analysis (such as multiple regression), statistical inference, and hypothesis testing. Additionally, you will explore key concepts in research ethics and research philosophy—particularly positivism—and examine how these inform and support a robust quantitative research strategy.
Building on this foundation, you will apply your knowledge and skills to conduct a Master’s-level quantitative management investigation, focusing on a real-world problem or opportunity within your own organisation. The objective of this investigation is to formulate evidence-based recommendations, thereby demonstrating your ability to apply quantitative data collection and analysis techniques in a professional context.
How will I learn on this module?
You will engage in a diverse range of learning activities during the module. These will include formal taught sessions, individual supervision, online support workshops, tutor-directed study, and independent reading. Taught sessions are designed to be highly interactive, drawing on both your directed learning and professional experience.
Active participation will be a central feature of the module, both individually and within small groups or teams. Tutor-led sessions will adopt a workshop or seminar format, providing opportunities to practise and experiment with the methods and techniques introduced. This hands-on approach includes working with quantitative datasets and applying statistical analysis using software such as SPSS.
Given that the overarching aim of the module is to conduct a quantitative research investigation within your own organisation, you will also explore potential research areas and assess the feasibility of projects in your professional context and obtain formative feedback on your ideas before commencing the research stage of the module.
The learning and teaching philosophy is underpinned by critical reflection on academic knowledge, professional practice, and personal experience, alongside the explicit development of competence in quantitative research and analysis techniques.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported throughout by the module tutor, assisted by a team of research experts who will act as project supervisors. The block teaching sessions will deliver a blend of lectures, workshops, and seminars designed to develop your confidence and competence in designing and executing a quantitative management investigation.
All necessary teaching and support materials will be made available via a comprehensive eLearning Portal (eLP), including lecture content, workshop resources, and supplementary reading. You will also use statistical analysis software (SPSS) to process and interpret quantitative data and access to this is available under a university licence. An electronic reading list will guide your engagement with relevant texts, academic reports, conference papers, and peer-reviewed journal articles throughout the module.
To help refine and focus your investigation, you will receive formative feedback on your proposed research topic before beginning the project. Once your investigation is underway, you will be assigned an individual supervisor who will provide tailored guidance and academic support. Additional online support workshops will also be available to further assist you during the research process.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• [MLO 1] Demonstrate critical understanding of management research and how quantitative methods can be applied within the organisational context [PL02]
• [MLO 2] Identify an organisational problem or issue and design a quantitative research strategy to address it [PLO2]
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• [MLO 3] Carry out quantitative data collection and analysis relevant to your identified organisational problem [PLO 2,6]
• [MLO 4] Make recommendations for change and improvement based on quantitative research and analysis [PLO 2,6]]
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• [MLO 5] Demonstrate intellectual curiosity, exploring theory and research broadly and not merely in pursuit of tackling a specific problem [PLO 2, 6]
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment will take place through group discussions (including peer support), presentation of and reflection on proposed research topics, and piloting of research methods.
The summative assessment will comprise one component. This will consist of a 5k management investigation report which presents the results and recommendations of a quantitative research study carried out within your organisation.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
The Quantitative Management Research Project equips you with the essential knowledge and analytical skills required to undertake a quantitative management research investigation within your professional organisation. Taught sessions will incorporate practical, research-informed activities designed to support your understanding of how to design and implement an ethical, justified, and feasible quantitative research project which can add value to an organisation. Supervision sessions will support you to carry this out.
The module culminates in an individual investigation, carried out within your own organisational context, and supervised by a member of academic staff. Drawing on your analysis of quantitative data, the project will lead to the development of evidence-based recommendations addressing a clearly defined management problem or opportunity.
Assessment is through a single 5,000-word project report, which will identify the focus of your investigation, justify the selected research methods, present the analysis, and propose relevant, actionable recommendations.
Course info
Credits 30
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 2 years Part Time
Department Newcastle Business School
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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