Social Problems and Social Policy unit (HGA223)

Introduction

The unit examines significant social problems in Australia and the work of the welfare state, through social policy, to solve them. This includes looking at discourses, social actors, institutions and historical events, and how these have shaped the way social problems are thought about and acted upon. Through different approaches to policy analysis and concepts such as neoliberalism, managerialism and community, the unit explores the ideas, processes and practices that make up social policy, programs and services. There is a particular focus on the significant social issues of homelessness, income support and disability. The unit is relevant to anyone who wants to understand contemporary social problems and policies, especially those studying sociology, social work, education, law and the criminal justice system.

Summary

Unit name	Social Problems and Social Policy
Unit code	HGA223
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Arts and Society Humanities and Social Sciences
Discipline	Sociology and Criminology
Coordinator	Doctor Kathleen Flanagan
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Intermediate

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Explain how contemporary social problems are constructed in policy making processes.
• Analyse the development and implementation of social policies in Australia.
• Apply relevant theories and concepts to social problems and social policy.
• Communicate understanding of relevant information, ideas, theories and concepts clearly and logically.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

25 credit points at Introductory level or higher

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On Campus: Weekly recorded lectures (1 hour) and weekly tutorial (120 minutes) Off Campus:  Weekly recorded lectures (1 hour) and asynchronous online learning activities (equivalent to 120 minutes weekly)  Students can attend an online tutorial (120 minutes) instead of completing the asynchronous online learning activities if preferred
Assessment	Policy in practice tasks (30%)|Research essay (35%)|Take-home exam (35%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Readings available via the Reading List at the UTAS Library or on MyLO
Recommended	Readings available via the Reading List at the UTAS Library

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.