The aim of the course is to give students the opportunity to gain insight into the theoretical, ideological and historical framework of social policy and welfare provisions in Europe. By providing an in-depth analysis of social policy developments, this course furthers understanding of welfare reform trajectories in Europe. Students will be equipped with the skills necessary for advanced research, to analyse applied social policies:
- to identify the theoretical underpinnings of social policy;
- to describe the historical, ideological and political context in which social policy has developed in European welfare states;
- to critically analyse all the key areas of social policy;
- to explore the changing contemporary context of social policy in the European Union.
- to understand and reflect different theories and typologies of welfare states regimes.

Introductory lectures during the intensive programme in Vilnius and a book exam.

Only for students in the Cosopo programme.