Main Field of Study and progress level:
Sociology: First cycle, has only upper-secondary level entry requirements
Grading scale: Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail
Responsible department: Department of Sociology
Contents
The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to the field of social policy, which will be discussed both theoretically and empirically. The course begins by discussing how we may understand social policy and the welfare state. What makes welfare states and their attainments interesting and important to analyze? And why does this need to be done in a comparative way? Special emphasis is put on the characteristics of welfare policies and family policies in Sweden. The development and distinctiveness of the "Swedish Model" is analysed in an international context.
All lectures and seminars are held in English.
Expected learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course, the student will:
be able to analyze and systematize different theoretical approaches to understanding social policy regimes
be able to apply these concepts, terms and methods to empirical research questions
have a deeper understanding of the Swedish welfare system.
Required Knowledge
Basic eligibility
Form of instruction
The course content is delivered through lectures, seminars, individual and group work.
Examination modes
The examination consists of two parts. Students are expected to hold one group presentation. Additionally, students will write an individual essay on a relevant research question. In order to be awarded a Pass grade for the course as a whole, the student must pass both parts of the examination and attend all compulsory sessions indicated in the course schedule.
Academic credit transfer
Decisions relating to academic credit transfers are made on a case-by-case basis. For further information about this contact the study advisor. See also Umeå Universitys set of rules and academic transfer regulations.
Literature
Valid from:
2009 week 36
Korpi Walter Faces of Inequality: Gender, Class and Patterns of Inequalities in Different Types of Welfare States Included in: Social politics Champaign, Ill. : Published by the University of Illinois Press in cooperation with the Swedish Council for Social Research : 1994- :
Olsen Gregg M. "Re-modelling Sweden: The Rise and Demise of the Compromise in a Global Economy Included in: Social problems Buffalo, N.Y.,c 1953- : 1953- :
The welfare state reader Pierson Christopher, Castles Francis Geoffrey 2. ed. : Cambridge : Polity : 2006 : xi, 492 s. : ISBN: 0-7456-3555-5 (inb.) Search the University Library catalogue
