Learning outcomes: The course widens students knowledge on the global challenges of the welfare states. It empowers students in value analysis of the political and economic challenges of the welfare states. As an element of futures studies the students will learn holistic analysis of the present and future challenges of the welfare states.

By taking a historical, ideological, economical, social, political and systems theoretical view, the aim is to widen the perspectives on the effects that global challenges have on the future of welfare states, and teach how to make an holistic analysis of the present and future challenges of the welfare states.  A historical view is taken to the development of welfare states and economic globalization, as well as, to the ideological development of ideas and values and models of welfare states. The European Union's effects to the recent and future development of European welfare state are also discussed. To widen the global view on the challenges, international politics and economy are discussed in relation to challenges of governance of world economic system and world politics.

Application period: 15 March - 15 May

Evaluation: Exam or lecture diary and essay (alone or as a group)

Course material: lecture slides

Working methods: The course consist of 24 hours of lectures and 6 hours of seminar where the essay task is handled. The essays are written on a given question (alone or as a group).

Min-max number of students: 10-50

In questions concerning course content, please contact Petri Kylliäinen: petri.kylliainen(a)uta.fi