This module introduces students to the issues related to the governmental and financial issues relating to public services.

The module may include:
-Government Institutions / Roles and responsibilities
-Governmental structures and Levels
-Legislative processes and policy-making powers
-Policy Development and Public Implications
-Sources of finance
-Financial Responsibilities and Budget Control
-Impact of financial decisions on public services

Staffordshire University electronic resources and off-campus library facilities
Module website
Bank of England www.bankofengland.co.uk
Financial Times www.ft.com
Office for National Statistics www.statistics.gov.uk
Policies of the European Union http://europa.eu.int
Sociology Update www.updates.co.uk

Axford, B. et al (2002) Politics: An Introduction Routledge
Peele, G. (2004) Governing the UK, 4th Edition Wiley-Blackwell
Jones, B. & Norton, P.(2010 ) Politics UK Pearson
Hillman, A.L. (2009) Public Finance and Public Policy: Responsibilities and Limitations of Government Cambridge University Press

A written assignment of 2000 words (100%), which examines a chosen government policy and the impact on the public services, together with the associated legislation and financial implications (Learning Outcomes 1-4).

The learning strategy for this module requires students to commit 150 learning hours (including assessment). This will include 36 hours of class support and 114 hours of independent and self directed study.

The class sessions will include formal lectures, case study analysis and group discussions based on student experiences in the subject area. Students will be encouraged to integrate their work based experiences with new knowledge and skills developed in the classroom as the module progresses.