GCGT Research Intensive

Learn classic grounded theory while designing your research study.

The Glaserian Classic Grounded Theory Research Intensive (GCGT-RI) is for researchers who want to learn GCGT by applying it to the development of their own independent research study. Participants will work through the methodology step by step while making the research design decisions needed to develop a research prospectus.

Apply for the Next Cohort

AT A GLANCE

Format

12 virtual sessions over 12 or 24 weeks

Investment

$900 USD

Experience

No prior experience required

Entry

Application

Focus

Research design & Skill development

Outcome

Independent GCGT research prospectus

Environment

Small supportive peer learning cohort

Instructor

Expert instruction

Struggling to get started with classic grounded theory?

If you're new to classic grounded theory, you may be:

Unsure how to design a study that aligns with CGT principles
Confused by conflicting grounded theory approaches
Struggling to turn your idea into a research prospectus
Worried your methodology won’t hold up under review
Delaying your study because you don’t feel confident

This is where many researchers get stuck.

A Clear, Structured Path from Beginner to Research-Ready

This 12-session research intensive gives you a guided, step-by-step process for designing a classic grounded theory study and developing a research prospectus.

You won’t be left figuring things out on your own. Each week builds toward a clear outcome—so you make steady, meaningful progress.

What you will do:

Learn the principles and procedures of Glaserian classic grounded theory.
Develop your research study step by step.
Learn basic open coding, memoing, and constant comparison.
Make methodological decisions appropriate to your study.
Develop a research prospectus ready for the next stage of your research.

However, you do not have to be a beginner to take the GCGT Research Intensive. Experienced grounded theorists also find the systematic approach useful in designing their next study.

By the End of GCGT Research Intensive, You Will Have:

A Research Prospectus

A prospectus that explains a research design aligned with classic grounded theory

A Defensible Study Design

Aligned with classic grounded theory principles & ready for review

Practical Skills

Practice with open coding, memoing & constant comparison

Clarity Moving Forward

Confidence about how classic grounded theory will guide your proposed study

You won’t just learn the methodology.

You will be taking the first steps in preparing your study.

Next Step: Email RTM To Schedule a call to learn more or apply now

Email to Schedule Call Apply for next cohort

Where can I go from here?

After completing the Intensive, you can continue independently, join the GCGT Research Lab, or apply to the GCGT & GA Research Fellowship.

GCGT-RI graduates who are accepted into the Fellowship receive a 20% off the first-year tuition for the Fellowship.

Financial assistance: Available upon request.

Apply Now

Learn from an Expert in Classic Grounded Theory

Kara L. Vander Linden

Dr. Vander Linden is an interdisciplinary researcher, educator, mentor, and lifelong learner. She is the founder and executive director of the Institute for Research and Theory Methodologies (RTM) and the Director of the Glaser Center for Grounded Theory. Dr. Kara Vander Linden also teaches research and supervises classic grounded theory dissertations at Saybrook University. She has been supervising grounded theory research for over 20 years.

Dr. Vander Linden earned a doctorate in education from Fielding Graduate University (Santa Barbara, CA) with specializations in grounded theory, grounded action, and higher education leadership. She earned a master’s in special education from the University of North Carolina (Charlotte, NC) and a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from Queens University (Charlotte, NC).

FAQs

Do I need prior experience?

No. This is designed for beginners, but also useful for those with experience in grounded theory.

How much time per week?

It varies depending on how much you have thought through your research topic, but you should expect to spend 60-90 minutes in the live, virtual sessions and 3–5 hours on average between sessions. This is weekly in the 12-week version or spread over 2 weeks in the 24-week version.

Will I complete my prospectus?

Yes, the program is structured to guide you through it step by step.

Is this live or self-paced?

There are live, virtual sessions.

Will I receive feedback?

You will receive verbal feedback during the group calls.

Ready to Design Your Study and Begin Your Research?