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SOCI 117

Introduction to New Zealand Government and Public Policy

Course overview

You’ll get an insight into how governments make decisions about law, regulation, policy and policy implementation and the role public debate plays in these decisions. Plus, decisions, and how these decision patterns, affect day-to-day life in Aotearoa-New Zealand.

Course information

Prerequisites and Restrictions You must satisfy the following requirement(s):
  • a minimum average grade of C- across the course(s) specified below
  • restriction Sociology and Politics, SOCI-114 or SOCI-114R
  • restriction Policy Studies, SOCI-205
Available semesters Semester 2 2024
Credits 15
Domestic fees $794.00

What you will learn

After successfully completing this course, you’ll be able to:

  1. Understand the structures and functions of New Zealand government.
  2. Discuss a range of ideas about democracy, justice, and equity.
  3. Analyse the strategic advantages and disadvantages of a range of electoral systems.
  4. View the political spectrum and types of government.
  5. Recognise the different branches of government - Sovereign, Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.
  6. Have knowledge of the electoral systems.
  7. Outline Māori political engagement and the Treaty of Waitangi.
  8. Discuss local government as well as planning and policy processes.

Course examiners

Greg Ryan

Greg Ryan

Professor

Faculty of Environment, Society and Design

greg.ryan@lincoln.ac.nz