This syllabus is valid: 2006-05-01
and until further notice
Course code: 2SV020
Credit points: 7.5
Education level: Basic level
Main Field of Study and progress level:
Political Science: first cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Grading scale: VG Pass with distinction, G Pass, U Fail
Responsible department: Department of Political Science
Contents
This is an intensive course designed primarily for international students interested or specializing in political science to be taken at the beginning of their studies at Umea. The course is normally followed by North American Politics in Comparative Perspective given by Professor Milner in the next period.
Form of instruction
This course introduces the student to the main approaches to comparative politics. By comparing and contrasting different institutional arrangements, we try to understand why countries differ in their policy choices and why similar policy choices can result in different outcomes. Students will be introduced to the methodologies used for assembling and analyzing relevant data, using especially Swedish/Scandinavian sources. In 2006, the discussion of elections and parties will take the form of a case study of the Swedish election campaign and its result (the election will take place on Sunday, September 17th).
By bringing the current political debate (and perhaps one or more of the political leaders contributing to it) to the classroom, the students will learn about the political life around them. Moreover, by paying special attention to EU linked issues in the campaign, we will also gain insight into current challenges facing Europe.
The course is given in the form of a mix of lectures and seminars.
Examination modes
Each module (moment) ends with an examination. The type of examination varies. Both written and oral examinations covering sub-course literature and lectures may be used. Final grades may also be based on research papers, other written assignments, oral presentations, and participation in seminars. Final course grades, which include all sub-courses, are awarded once all examinations and other obligatory written and oral work has been submitted. Three grades can be awarded: fail, pass, and high pass.
Students who fail an examination may take a retest. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, students may not retest more than a maximum of 4 times. A student has the right to request a new examiner if he/she fails two sub-course examinations (i.e. an examination and a retest). In such cases students should contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies (Studierektor).
A student has the right to an examination based on the course and literature described in this document for a period of two years after he/she first registered for the course.
7. Transferring credits
The Director of Undergraduate Studies or Assistant Director of Undergraduate Studies (Studierektor) makes decisions about transfer credits for a module or course. Students who want to transfer credits should submit a written request to the Director of Undergraduate Studies. The request should specify which sub-course or course the request applies to. An official transcript should also be submitted. The transcript must include the following information: where and when the course was given, the discipline and level of the course, total course credits and grade received. A syllabus describing the course and listing required reading should be submitted with the request. Where applicable, written research papers should also be submitted.
Other regulations
Course evaluations are administered at the end of each sub-course.
Literature
Valid from:
2006 week 18
Bale Tim European Politics: A Comparative Introduction Basingstoke : Palgrave Macmillan : 2005 :
