Unit name | Power, Politics and the Policy Process |
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Unit code | SPOLM1060 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Ayres |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
None |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School for Policy Studies |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
This unit explores the whole process of public policy beginning from the big picture of the global economy through the complex issues of which policies are chosen for inclusion on the political agenda and the role of individuals in shaping policy design. The concept of political power influences every stage of the policy process and forms a central strand running through the entire course. The unit introduces students to the main theories that seek to explain the nature of policy making and debates these in light of contemporary issues about the nature, scope and effecticeness of policy in modern societies.
This unit has three main aims:
On completion of the unit students should:
The unit will involve a mix of lectures, set reading, group discussions and practical exercises.
An essay of 3500 words in which students should demonstrate an understanding of relevant theories and modes of policy making, and a familiarity with contemporary policy debates and different approaches to policy making.