HMGK03291U AMIS: Researching Migration - Methodological Approaches

Volume 2025/2026
Education

Advanced Migration Studies

Content

This course introduces key methodological debates in migration studies through lectures and hands-on engagement with a range of research methods. We will explore approaches such as participant observation, interviews, and historical analysis to examine how migration can be studied interdisciplinarily. Experts from various fields will share insights from their research practice and current projects. Throughout the course, we will critically reflect on our own positionality, the strengths and limitations of different methods and units of analysis, and ethical dilemmas such as working with vulnerable groups and individuals or handling sensitive data. Combining readings, lectures, discussions, and practical workshops, this course equips students with the tools to conduct migration research critically and self-reflexively while developing their methodological skills according to their interests.

 

Exam code: HMGK03291E

Literature

Allen, William L., and Carlos Vargas-Silva, eds. 2024. Handbook of Research Methods in Migration. Second edition. Edward Elgar Publishing.

A complete literature list will be made available at the start of the semester.

This course is only available to Full Degree Students at Advanced Migration Studies and Erasmus Students visiting through an agreement with Advanced Migration Studies (EuMIGS Partners).
Lectures, group activities and 'laboratory workshops'.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Class Instruction
  • 56
  • Preparation
  • 203
  • Exam Preparation
  • 130
  • Total
  • 389
Written
Oral
Individual
Continuous feedback during the course of the semester
Feedback by final exam (In addition to the grade)
Credit
15 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Requirement to attend classes under invigilation
Type of assessment details
2022-curriculum:
Take home-assigment, set subject, following active class participation. 4-5 standard pages. One week is given to complete the assignment.

The active class participation consists of 2-4 group-based semester assignments of 2-3 standard pages each.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Exam period

December/January

Re-exam

Conducted in the same manner as the original exam.

Exam in case of non-approved active student participation:
Take-home assigment with a set subject. 16-20 standard pages. One week is given to complete the assignment.
 
Criteria for exam assesment