General provisions

The course is given both as a course within a programme and as an independent course. The course may be given in English.

Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree of 180 credits including 90 credits in sociology or social psychology

Learning outcomes

After the course the student should:

• have acquired in-depth knowledge of sociological theories and theoretical thinking

• have deepened her/his knowledge of how various theories and theoretical traditions have influenced the different specialisations

• have in-depth insight into the use of different sociological theories such as for the interpretation of society's basic principles, various empirical facts, as well as for time diagnostic purposes

• have the capacity for critical reflection on theory development

• have enhanced their capacity to use theoretical concepts and perspectives

• have enhanced their skills to communicate about sociological theoretical thinking in text or verbally

Content

The aim of the course is that students should acquire in-depth knowledge of sociological theories and theoretical thinking and deepen their knowledge about how various theories and theoretical traditions have influenced the different specialisations.

Because sociology is a multi-paradigmatic science the main theoretical orientations and approaches are presented and analysed during the course. In sociology, a distinction is made between general theory, i.e. a theoretical interpretation of society's basic principles and theories that are designed to analyse and interpret the tangible and empirical facts within the society's various sectors and institutions. In addition, the sociological theorising also has a time diagnostic purpose, which in recent years has come to be regarded as important within the field. All three theoretical dimensions will be discussed in detail during the course.

Instruction

The course consists of lectures, group work and seminars. Active participation in seminars is always compulsory. Other compulsory attendance is indicated on the course schedule. Absence from compulsory elements must be compensated by assignments.

Assessment

Assessment is by home assignments and/or seminars. Home assignments which are submitted after the deadline cannot be given the grade VG, unless there are special circumstances. If something is missing in a submitted assignment it must be supplemented and resubmitted within 14 days from when the result is available for the student.

Other directives

Compulsory course for students in the Master Programme in social sciences with specialisation in sociology.