166-414 Comparative Social Policy

Admission to the master of Social Policy, Master of Public Policy and Management or the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours in Sociology.

This subject uses a comparative approach to analyse key areas of contemporary social policy, with a focus on the reform strategies that emerged over the 1990s. The subject examines the different social policy responses that have characterised these strategies, and considers ways of evaluating policy models in key areas. It engages with social policy in Australia, Europe and North America, emerging social policy in Asia, as well as with the increasing role of international organizations. The subject focuses on key policy areas, drawn from family policy, health policy, employment policy, ageing and urban policies.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills, through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research and of our place as researchers.

A research essay of 5000 words 50% (due mid-semester) and a research essay of 5000 words 50% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.