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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.

Information for admitted students spring 2025

Congratulations! You have been admitted at Stockholm University and we hope that you will enjoy your studies with us.

In order to ensure that your studies begin as smoothly as possible we have compiled a short checklist for the beginning of the semester.

Follow the instructions on whether you have to reply to your offer or not.
universityadmissions.se

 

Checklist for admitted students

  1. Activate your university account

    The first step in being able to register and gain access to all the university's IT services.

  2. Register at your department

    Registration can be done in different ways. Read the instructions from your department below.

  3. Read all the information on this page

    Here you will find what you need to know before your course or programme starts.

IMPORTANT

Your seat may be withdrawn if you do not register according to the instructions provided by your department.

Information from your department

On this page you will shortly find information on registration, learning platform, etc.

Welcome activities

Stockholm University organises a series of welcome activities that stretch over a few weeks at the beginning of each semester. The programme is voluntary (attendance is optional) and includes Arrival Service at the airport and an Orientation Day, see more details about these events below.
Your department may also organise activities for welcoming international students. More information will be provided by your specific department. 

su.se/welcomeactivities 


Find your way on campus

Stockholm University's main campus is in the Frescati area, north of the city centre. While most of our departments and offices are located here, there are also campus areas in other parts of the city.

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For new international students

Pre-departure information

New 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.

  • Course structure

    See syllabus for course content and expected learning outcomes. 

    Course language: English.

    Modules

    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 format

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

    Assessment

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

    Examiner

    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

  • Schedule

    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.
  • Course literature

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

    Katarina Thorén (course responsible)

    Study and Career counselling semester 5-7 and advanced level
    International coordinator