In the U.S., social policy accounts for two-thirds of government spending. Knowing how policies are constructed, what values underlie them, and how they succeed or fail makes everyone more effective at work or in their civic role. This specialization includes an HONORS track in which learners will complete a professional social policy analysis.
Teachers, health care workers, police, and social workers interact with policy daily, but all of us should care about the impact and effectiveness of these programs. Health and mental health programs, education, housing and income supports, pensions, criminal justice services, veterans’ programs, child protective services, and immigration services create a support system all Americans will draw upon. They also reveal Americans' ethics and values, indicating how we regard and care for our most vulnerable.
This specialization will explore the size, structure, and outcomes of U.S. social policy by
-comparing it with the approaches of other developed nations.
-examining the history of our efforts and probing population effects that shape policy.
-looking deeply into support for families in general, poor families, people with disabilities, and the elderly.
-mapping out existing policies for housing, education, healthcare, immigration and child welfare.
-addressing issues of power, oppression, and white supremacy.
By the end of the course the learner will be at home working in, utilizing, and voting in the U.S. welfare system.
Coursera
Explore the critical aspects of social services aimed at supporting families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. This course delves into the complexities of power, oppression, and systemic biases within social welfare policies to equip you with strategies for reform and improvement.
Coursera
Dive into the complexities of US policy-making with our 'Health, Housing, and Educational Services' course on Coursera. This comprehensive program examines key domains such as housing, education, healthcare, immigration, and child protection, equipping you with the knowledge to interpret findings and craft professional policy memos for decision-makers.
Coursera
Dive into the world of social policy with 'US Social Services Compared' on Coursera. This course examines the vast scope of public investments in social services across nations, focusing particularly on the United States. Discover how different countries structure their welfare systems, evaluate outcomes, and engage in debates about the appropriate size and role of government versus individual responsibility in providing essential services like education, housing, health care, and income support.
Coursera
Discover the fascinating journey of social services in America with 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' This course delves into the historical development of social policy, tracing its origins back to early cultural and religious influences. From hunter-gatherer societies to the establishment of agrarian villages, through colonial times and the industrial revolution, learn how these changes have molded the welfare state we know today.
Coursera
Dive into the fascinating world of how demographic shifts impact social policies with 'Poverty & Population: How Demographics Shape Policy'. This course unravels the complex interplay between population trends, economic conditions, and policy formulation to help you understand the root causes of poverty and how societies respond. Gain insights into key concepts such as labor markets, income distribution, and their implications on social welfare systems.