Perspectives on social work and social policy in the Swedish welfare state

The course gives an overview of the Swedish welfare state and the role and the organization of social work in Sweden.

The course consists of three different sub-courses (modules). The course is taught jointly, with SU8350 but differ in seminar assignments, examination requirements and course literature.

See syllabus for course content and expected learning outcomes. 

Course language: English.

Module 1:  The Swedish welfare state (7.5 ECTS), This course focus on social policy within the Swedish welfare state. The course includes the historical development of the Swedish welfare state, welfare state theories, and current challenges for the Swedish welfare state. 

Module 2: Social work in the Swedish welfare state (12 ECTS), focus on social work in Sweden, including areas like child protection, elder care, substance abuse, poverty, domestic violence, and disability. During this module, students become acquainted with the organization of social work in Sweden, and how social work is practiced in the above areas. Students also learn about key research findings for social work in Sweden and conduct field visits to social work organizations. 

Module 3:  An in-depth literature study course (3 ECTS). This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct an in-depth exploration of an area or topic that aligns with their individual interests. The topics are selected on students own focus and interest of social policy and social work. 

Teaching is conducted in English and comprise of lectures, seminars, and study visits. 


Examination consists of written exams, mandatory seminars, and examination papers. See course descriptions for detailed information about assessment and examination for the different modules. 

Module 1: The Swedish Welfare State, 7.5 hp: Petra Ulmanen

Module 2: Social work in the Swedish welfare state, 12 hp: Katarina Thorén

Module 3: An in-depth literature study course (reading course), 3 hp: Katarina Thorén

The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.


Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.


Course reports are displayed for the three most recent course instances.