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Different research methodology in masters dissertation and Phd

B

If you use a quantitative methodology in your masters dissertation, would this pose a problem in pursuing a Phd with a qualitative based research proposal (both research projects are in the field of financial management). Also would you consider approaching a supervisor in your research area who has published lots using different methodology to that you envisage using.

C

I used qualitative methodology in my Masters, and mixed methodology in my PhD (with the qualitative elements being completely different to the ones used in my Masters). It involved a fair bit of learning, but was worth it to tailor the methodology to the topic. It is possible to approach a supervisor who has the topic in common with you but not the methodology, although supervisors may feel more comfortable taking on a project that's within their existing field of experience. In my case, I sought external support (from specialised research groups) with my methodology, as I wanted to use an approach my supervisors hadn't used.

C

Just to add: if you want to use qualitative approaches with a mainly quants supervisor, try to establish their understanding of and attitude to qualitative work, as some don't have a lot of faith in it and may look at it through a quants lens!

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