PAM 5150

Social Welfare Policy in the United States

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2016-2017.

This course considers the historical evolution and contemporary challenges of social welfare policy in the United States. We begin with an overview of various perspectives on the role of government in crafting and funding social policy, considering the United States in comparative perspective. We then examine the historical basis of social welfare policy in the U.S. from the late 19th century to the present, covering policy landmarks such as the Social Security Act, the War on Poverty, and welfare reform. We then discuss current debates surrounding specific social insurance and social assistance programs.

When Offered Fall.

• Identify major debates over the provision of social safety net programs in the US.
• Evaluate these debates using comparative and historical perspectives.
• Evaluate evidence on the effects of social safety net policies.

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