66. Content and Thematic Analysis in Healthcare Research

About this lesson

In this module, we explore two widely used and accessible methods of qualitative analysis: content analysis and thematic analysis. Both approaches offer systematic ways to analyze interviews, documents, and other forms of qualitative data in healthcare and social research.

You’ll learn how content analysis allows for structured categorization of both manifest and latent content, often with potential for quantification. We also break down thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six-step approach, to help you identify patterns of meaning, define themes, and connect findings to research questions and practice.

Whether you’re analyzing policy texts, patient interviews, or focus group transcripts, these methods provide practical tools to uncover rich, meaningful insights in a structured and transparent way.

What You’ll Learn

• The differences and overlaps between content and thematic analysis
• How to develop coding schemes for categorizing or interpreting qualitative data
• Braun and Clarke’s six steps for conducting thematic analysis
• Semantic vs. latent themes and how to approach each
• Techniques for naming, refining, and organizing themes in healthcare research

These approaches are ideal for students, clinicians, and researchers who want accessible, rigorous tools for analyzing qualitative data across a range of health and social science settings.

Perfect For

• Public health and health science students
• Nursing, psychology, and social science researchers
• Mixed methods scholars and applied health professionals
• Anyone seeking clear, usable qualitative analysis strategies

Lesson notes

Full written notes for this lesson are in production. Until they publish, watch the video above and use the summary on this page as your study guide.