Qualtrics supports a wide range of academic research project types — from simple surveys to complex experimental designs. To help you choose the right setup and get started quickly, here are common Qualtrics project types used in university research, what they do, and what students need to launch them. For more detailed setup guides, search each project type in the Qualtrics Support site.

Standard Surveys (cross-sectional quantitative studies)

• What it is: Online questionnaires for measuring attitudes, behaviors, or demographics at one time point.
• Key Qualtrics features: Survey builder, question randomization, metadata capture, response quotas.
• Quick-start: Use the “Standard Survey” template, enable anonymous responses if needed, and export CSV/SPSS for analysis.

Experimental Designs & Randomized Trials

• What it is: Studies that use random assignment, between‑/within‑subjects conditions, and stimuli presentation.
• Key Qualtrics features: Randomizer, block randomization, embedded data, survey flow, display logic, timing/stimuli support.
• Quick-start: Use the “Experiment” template, test randomization in preview, and include automated debrief pages.

Conjoint & Choice Modeling

• What it is: Preference elicitation studies where participants choose between alternatives with varying attributes.
• Key Qualtrics features: Conjoint module, choice-based conjoint setups, forced-choice question types, utilities export.
• Quick-start: Start from the Conjoint template, pilot with a small sample to validate attribute levels, and export utilities for analysis.

Mixed-Methods Projects (combined quantitative + qualitative)

• What it is: Surveys with open-ended items plus follow-up interviews or focus groups.
• Key Qualtrics features: File upload, long-text responses, branching to capture consent for follow-ups, contact list for scheduling.
• Quick-start: Build survey with follow-up consent logic and use secure file uploads for documents or recordings.

Behavioral & Implicit Measures (timing, reaction tasks)

• What it is: Tasks measuring response times, implicit associations, or behavioral choices embedded in surveys.
• Key Qualtrics features: Timing question types, JavaScript customization, third‑party integrations for advanced tasks.
• Quick-start: Use timing question blocks, pilot on multiple browsers/devices, and store raw timing data for analysis.

Qualitative Data Collection (interviews, focus groups, transcripts)

• What it is: Scheduling, consent capture, post-session surveys, and file uploads for transcripts or recordings.
• Key Qualtrics features: File upload fields, contact list scheduling, secure storage options.
• Quick-start: Use the “Interview/Focus Group” template and route recordings to approved secure drives.

These are just a few of the most common ways students and researchers use Qualtrics to power their projects. Which setup have you used, or what challenges are you running into? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to learn from your experience!