Welfare State, Family and Integration

The course covers theoretical and empirical approaches to the welfare and family field and to the interaction between the welfare state, family and labor market nationally and internationally.One key question is the position of the Norwegian welfare state and labor market model and their impact on family policy and gender equality in a globalized world of increasing inquality. Emphasis on the various topics may vary from time to time. The term paper has to be an independent discussion of an issue raised in class, and can be between 15-20 pages, or 5600-7500 words.

Knowledge - the student shall:
- Be familiar with international research on welfare regimes and the welfare state, how these forms well-being of families and children, prevent inequality and promotes integration.
- Be able to critically reflect on the changes in the welfare and familyfield and their impact on individuals and society.

Skills - the student shall demonstrate the ability to:
- treat one of the topics addressed in class in an independent manner in a written work.

Lectures and seminars 4 hours per week, according to the lecture plan. 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 term paper, the individually selected readings and the required readings. If less than 6 students attend the course the two first weeks of teaching, the course will be given as an individual study course with supervision. Please contact the department for further information.