Introduction to New Zealand Government and Public Policy
Politics & Policy
A course by
Lincoln University
Core skills this course teaches
Understand New Zealand government structures and functions
Gain foundational knowledge of how the New Zealand government is structured and operates.
Discuss democracy, justice, and equity
Be able to discuss concepts and debates around democracy, justice, and equity as they apply to New Zealand.
Analyse electoral systems
Analyse the strategic advantages and disadvantages of a range of electoral systems.
What You're Signing Up For
In this course, students explore the decision-making structures and processes of the New Zealand government. They learn about the development and implementation of laws and policies, the impact of these governmental actions on daily life, and the importance of public debate. The course also examines key concepts such as democracy, justice, equity, the role of Māori political engagement, the Treaty of Waitangi, electoral systems, branches of government, and local government policy processes.
Course Content
- Structures and functions of New Zealand government
- Democracy, justice, and equity
- Electoral systems and their advantages/disadvantages
- Political spectrum and types of government
- Branches of government: Sovereign, Executive, Legislature, Judiciary
- Māori political engagement and the Treaty of Waitangi
- Local government
- Planning and policy processes
What you need to know first
A minimum average grade of C- across the specified sociology and politics courses
Restriction: Sociology and Politics, SOCI-114 or SOCI-114R
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Government
Public Policy
Political Science
Civic Sector
Future employment opportunities might be
Public sector roles
Policy analysis