Examining Postgraduate Theses Using Qualitative Research Methods in the Field of Health Management

Aim: To examine methodological characteristics and research trends of postgraduate theses using qualitative methods in the field of health management.Methods: The YÖKTEZ database was searched using the keywords “health institution management” and “qualitative.” A total of 98 theses were identified. Theses were evaluated through document review, content analysis, and grouped under three categories: Thesis Identity, Research Design, and Analysis Process.Results: Most theses were written in Turkish. Phenomenology and case study were the most common designs. Purposeful sampling was frequently used. Semi-structured interviews were the main data collection tool. Participant numbers ranged from 3 to 251. Interview periods ranged from 10 to 730 days. Content, descriptive, and thematic analysis were the most preferred methods. Many theses did not report pilot studies, researcher role, or validity and reliability procedures.Conclusion: Future theses should clearly report sampling and design choices, improve transparency in data collection and analysis, and give greater attention to trustworthiness in qualitative research.