Course syllabus - Swedish politics and policy

Objectives

The course aims to give students a basic understanding of the Swedish political system, Swedish political culture, and the goals and priorities that have shaped Swedish public policy in different areas, with a particular focus on welfare state and gender equality policy.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After completed studies, the student shall be able to show 
1. basic knowledge of the Swedish political system,
2. basic knowledge of Swedish policy, including welfare state and gender equality policy, 
3. understanding of important aspects of Swedish political culture. 

Competence and skills
After completed studies, the student shall be able to show
4. basic skill in written assessment of the Swedish political system and different policy areas.
5. ability to make oral presentations

Judgement and approach
After completed studies, the student shall be able to show
6. ability to differentiate effects of changes in Swedish politics, and
7. an analytical perspective in comparisons between Swedish policy and conditions in other countries.

Course content

This course gives a basic introduction to Swedish politics and policy. The course also deals with important changes over time. Three themes of are of particular importance:
1. Basic principles and patterns in the Swedish political system and politics, for example the electoral system, the legislative process, and the relationship between national and local politics. The governing autonomy provided to the local level and its role in implementation of welfare policy is also examined.
2. Changes in political steering and new perspectives on the role of the citizen.
3. Swedish policy areas such as welfare and gender equality policy.

Tuition

Lectures and seminars

Requirements

English B or English 6.

Examination

Written exam (TEN1), 4,5hp, grade G, VG (Learning outcomes 1-4, 6-7)
Assignment (INL1), 2hp, grade G, (Learning outcomes 1-4, 6-7)
Seminar (SEM1), 1hp, grade G (Learning outcomes 1-3, 5)

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail