Sociology of Globalization and Migration, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The aim of the course is to build students' critical understanding of globalization, migration, and the relationships between them. It addresses these topics in the context of other important features of societies, such as the character of their welfare state and patterns of recent social change. The course is divided into four themes, each relating globalization and migration to topics such as neoliberalism, institutions, public attitudes, and the experiences of immigrants. The exact themes and corresponding course materials are updated annually to reflect recent developments in the field.

Expected learning outcomes

In regards to comprehension and knowledge, on successful completion of the course, the student will have:

• gained knowledge of sociological perspectives concerning globalization, the welfare state, and international migration
• developed a broad understanding of the important questions, major themes, and research areas that lie at the intersection of globalization, the welfare state, and international migration

In regards to ability and proficiency, on successful completion of the course, the student will have:

• developed research skills such as identifying new and important research questions, locating and synthesizing relevant academic research, distinguishing between reliable and unreliable information, and pursing evidenced-based explanations of phenomena
• gained experience thinking analytically and communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, sociological theories, arguments, and concepts related to globalization, international migration, and welfare state systems

Concerning the logic of inquiry, on successful completion of the course, the student will have:

• gained greater knowledge of appropriate methods used to help answer research questions
• attained an increased awareness of how social science may inform practices in civil society, government, and certain occupations

Required Knowledge

90 credits in a main field of study within the social sciences including a thesis of 15 credits, or equivalent eligibility. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course consists of lectures and seminars and will focus on and provide many opportunities for active student participation. To complete course assignments students must have access to a computer, internet, and applications available for free download.

Examination modes

All seminars are compulsory. Students are required to come prepared to discuss course materials in each seminar. Performance on short weekly papers or presentations will also factor into student grades. Students will be assessed individually and receive a corresponding grade. The Swedish grading system states that the following grades may be awarded: Pass with Distinction (väl godkänd), Pass (godkänd) or Fail (underkänd). For comparison of grades, Umeå University has decided that the ECTS Grading Table (EGT) shall be used. International students' home university is responsible for any translation into their local grading system.

For each examining part of the course is a regular examination given with a second reexamination within two months after the regular examination. For examinations performed in May and June is the first reexamination offered within three months of the regular examination. In addition to this is a third reexamination given within a year after the end of the course. Examination based on the same course plan as the regular examination is guaranteed within two years after the earlier course plan has ceased to be valid or the course is no longer given (see rules for grades and examination on basic and advanced level, Dnr: FS 1.1.2-553-14). A student who has failed two tests for a course or a part of a course is entitled to have another examiner appointed after a written request to the head of department. 

Deviations from the form of examination in the course plan can be made for a student who has pedagogical support due to disabilities. Individual adjustment of the examination form shall be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form is adjusted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes of the course plan. After a request from the student shall the course coordinator, in consultation with the examiner, quickly decide on the adjusted form of examination. The decision is then to be reported to the student.  

Transfer of credits
In order to transfer credits to a corresponding course at Umeå University, students have the right to submit previous education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in the profession for evaluation. Application for transfer of credits is submitted to the Student Centre / Examinations. More information on transfer of credits is available on Umeå University's student website, www.student.umu.se, and the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). A refusal for transfer of credits may be appealed against (Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 12) to the University Appeals Board. This applies whether the entire application or part of the application for transfer of credits is refused.