Foundations of Social Policy

The subject introduces students to social policy and provides a foundation for future inquiry. Students explore historical and contemporary welfare frameworks, concepts of social equity and theories of care. The subject captures different welfare approaches from the global north and south, and actively engages students in the steps of policy making and reform. Students also consider innovative responses to complex disadvantage and exclusion that are more inclusive, deliberative and devolved. These models include social impact bonds, place-based approaches and co-design/co-production. Through a combination of theoretical analysis and practical application, the subject prepares students to contribute to social policy development and implementation.