Law in Practice: Rights and Justice, 15 Credits

Contents

The course deals with the relationship between law, legal theory and practice concerning human rights and vulnerability among individuals and groups. This includes theoretical and practical aspects and studies of legal advocacy and the work of NGOs. Based on themes such as rights, rule of law and access to justice, the course focuses on equality, inclusion, empowerment and accountability for individuals and groups in society.

The course provides the opportunity to independently and creatively identify and explore issues in collaboration with societal actors and thus contribute to social change.

Expected learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student shall have the ability to:
- demonstrate the ability to integrate knowledge of central concepts such as advocacy, vulnerability and social justice, in theoretical and practical contexts,
- explain and show ability to participate in discussion on the need of activism from different perspectives,
- show knowledge and understanding of critical methods on law in practice, and
- demonstrate the ability to verbally and in writing present and discuss conclusions and the knowledge and arguments behind them, in dialogue with different types of groups in an academic and professional context.
 

Required Knowledge

A minimum of 90 university credits in one main field of social sciences, including an individual essay carrying at least 15 university credits, and an introductory course in law carrying at least 15 university credits. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A/5. 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 is a full time on-line course in English. The course is taught entirely through an electronic Learning Management System where the student takes part in lectures, mandatory assignments and other learning activities. The studies are characterized by a high degree of independent and active search for knowledge, and critical reflection, both individually and in groups.

Examination modes

Examination takes place through fulfillment of two parts. The first is the completion of mandatory assignments such as forum discussions, papers and oral discussions or presentations, individually or in groups. The second part consists of the completion and defence of an individual research poster, and a discussion on another student’s poster.

For the first part the grades are Fail (U) or Pass (G). For the second part, as well as the entire course, the grades are Fail (U), Pass (G) and Pass with Distinction (VG). The whole course is not graded until the first part of the course is fulfilled.

​Transfers
Students have the right to apply to have a previous education or experience evaluated for transfer of credits. For more information, see: www.umu.se/utbildning/antagning/tillgodoraknande/