Comparative Social Policy, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the field of social policy. The course provides an overview of the main theories and empirical developments in welfare state and social policy analysis. Major and updated topics (e.g. aging societies, globalization or immigration) are discussed. 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 a comparative, international perspective.

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

Course meetings will take the form of lectures and seminars and include both group and individual work. All coursework is in English. Lectures and seminars will be held in English.

Examination modes

The examination consists of two parts.In seminars, students will present work in groups. 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.

International students will be graded in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Grading decisions are based on an assessment of the individual student’s performance. In case of a student being awarded a “fail” grade, she or he has the right to be re-examined in a form and at a time agreed upon in consultation with the examiner.

Students have the right to be re-examined up to five times per course. Examination and supplementary examination based on the syllabus outlined here can be guaranteed for up to two years after the start of the course. If a student is awarded a “fail” grade on at least two consecutive attempts of the examination of the course or course component, she or he has the right to request a new examiner. The director of studies should be consulted in such circumstances.

Other regulations

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 University’s set of rules and academic transfer regulations.