Social Work in Contexts of Postcolonial Migration: Perspectives on Policies, Institutions and Practices
7.5 credits
In this course, we specifically investigate the field of social work, which includes public, private, nonprofit, national and international activities and operations. We also examine the ways social work changes and relates to increased migration and changing migration patterns and consequences. The course presents and problematizes theories of migration in general and of social work in relation to migration in particular. These theories then form the basis for elaborating and analyzing the link between social work and migration in relation to migration and social policy, welfare institutions, social work practices and the living conditions of individuals and groups.
This course is intended for those who in their current or future work meet people with experience of migration as well as for those who are curious about migration and want to know more about how different societies and societal institutions respond to migration.
This course focuses on social work institutions and practices and how they are guided by migration/social/public policies as well as ethical considerations. The course engages with four main issues central to social work:
social work as a response to people’s vulnerability
the control/care dilemma
social work as a method of enhancing social rights and belonging as well as fostering social wellbeing and change
professional encounters and treatment in context of postcolonial migration.
During the course, current theories of postcolonial migration and particularly social work are discussed and problematised. These theories then provide the ground for more indepth study and analysis of the connection between social work and postcolonial migration in relation to migration/social/public policy, welfare institutions, social work practices, and the living conditions of particular individuals and groups.
The course is combined with program students at the Faculty of Social Sciences and national-, international- and exchange students who study independent course.
Join a global community at an international university!
This course is an elective course within the master's programme in Colonial and Postcolonial Studies. The programme is designed to meet the societal and academic need for a discerning and critical analysis of the impact and consequences of colonialism in history and today. A special focus lies on how the modern world has been shaped through the colonial exercise of power, discourse, networks, and knowledge, and how these factors continue to impact economic, social, cultural, and political relations in postcolonial contemporary society. There is a close collaboration with the international research centre Concurrences.
Distance – study where you are
Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.
You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.
The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.
Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus
Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.
Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.
With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.
Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.
Build your own degree
Did you know that you can combine single-subject courses to build your own degree? In this way, you can design your own degree based on your interests and the career you are aiming for. This does not apply to all courses so make sure to check with a study counsellor at the faculty. Learn more about how you can build your own degree and become unique on the labour market.