Course content

The course problematizes key sociological discussions on inequalities, integration and welfare, including their inherent relationships. The lectures focuses primarily on central theoretical perspectives and theories, however also present key empirical contributions, from both the Norwegian society and the global community. The discussions are anchored in analyses of key societal challenges, such as the future of the welfare state, migration patterns, crime, poverty, labor markets, technology etc. The course combines class room discussions with students' own investigations, primarily through their work with the papers.

The aim of the course is to encourage PhD-candidates to critically explore and develop the existing theoretical perspectives at the cross-section between inequality, welfare and integration research.

Learning outcome

Knowledge outcomes:

• Students acquire a sound knowledge about the central theories concerning the field of inequality, welfare and integration.

Competence outcomes:

• Students are able to independently explore and theorize a chosen aspect concerning inequality, welfare and integration, and present the findings in a draft of article of international level.

Learning methods and activities

The course combines a variety of learning activities (lectures, seminars, presentations, excursions and other). Supervision of paper. The paper is to be an independent discussion of a topic taught in lectures, and is to consist of 20 pages. If 6 or fewer students sign up for a planned course during the first 2 teaching weeks, the course will be offered as an instructed reading course.

Required previous knowledge

Masters degree in Sociology or equivalent.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.

Credit reductions