Course content

In this course we discuss how patterns of development in modern societies create new social inequalities and hence new challenges for the welfare state, at the national as well as the international level. Both theoretically and empirically, we investigate the changing interaction between the welfare state, the family and the labour market, and what consequences this has for class, gender, social mobility and so forth. We will compare different cross-national and international perspectives on these processes. The term paper will be an independent analysis of one of the topics covered by the lectures, and should be 15-20 pages long (5600-7500 words).

Learning outcome

To provide the students with a basic understanding of sociological theories and concepts on topics as welfare, inequality and integration, and give the student experience in applying these to individually selected topics.

Learning methods and activities

Teaching methods and activities: Lectures and seminars.
Form of assessment: Individual term paper and oral examination. The oral exam may be used to adjust the grade by one unit on the scale. The oral exam will include the research paper, the individually selected readings and the required readings. The course is offered if available capacity.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation

Recommended previous knowledge

SOS2005

Required previous knowledge

SOS1000, SOS1001 and SOS1002 or the equivalent.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course

Credit reductions