Human Geography BA (A), Economic Geography - From Local to Global Perspectives, 7.5 credits

Aim

This course aims to provide basic knowledge relating to economic geography both from a theoretical as well as a method-oriented point of view. The course investigates the forces shaping the development of the global economy by focusing specifically on the spatial distribution and interaction of economic activities in the contemporary era.

Course objectives

Upon completing the course, the student must
• be able to explain key concepts in economic geography and show an understanding of basic economic-geographical theories and methods
• be able to provide an overview of the development of the world economy for the period between the second half of the 20th century up to the present day, and exemplify how this development also entailed economic-geographical changes, consequences, and effects
• by applying economic-geographical theories, concepts and methods be able to analyze current events of importance to the economy at local, regional, national, and international levels

Content

This course focuses on the spatial characteristics of economic activities. Issues covered include uneven geographic development, spatial division of labor, local and regional consequences and effects of increasing and internationalized competition, regional differences in innovation capacity, and structural transformations and their consequences for local and regional economies. During the course, particular attention is paid towards understanding how economic activities, actors and processes at different scales are related to each other: what are the links between clusters at the local level and an increasingly global network economy; what socio-economic relations connect one’s existence with various ethnic groups around the world? Additional issues that are addressed include: what roles do locally- and regionally specific knowledge and resources play in asserting themselves in an internationalized economy and securing employment, growth, and welfare? What are the mechanisms behind a spatial division of labor? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a spatial division of labor and for whom?

Entry requirements

General entry requirements + Mathematics course 2 and Social Studies course 1 from Swedish Upper Secondary School (Gymnasium) or equivalent
(Äldre gymnasiebetyg)

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching takes place remotely using Mid Sweden University's web-based system. The courses contain various assignments and discussions that are reported on an ongoing basis.

Examination form

0010: Individual exam, 2 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

0020: Term paper, 4 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

0030: Seminar, 1.5 Credits
Grade scale: Fail (U) or Pass (G)

Link to subject-specific grading criteria: www.miun.se/betygskriterier

If a student has a decision from the coordinator at Mid Sweden University on pedagogical support in the event of a disability, the examiner has the right to provide an adapted examination for the student.

Examination restrictions

Students admitted to the previous version of the course have the right to be examined 3 times within the course of 1 year according to that syllabus. The students are then transferred to this syllabus.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

Other information

The course is web-based and requires access to a computer with an Internet connection. It is also desirable that the student has access to a webcam and headset as it is then possible to use additional and more effective communication tools during the course. Please note, however, that this is not a requirement as the course can be completed without these accessories.

The course is read as an independent course and can be combined with any of the following distance courses in cultural geography:

• Economic Geography and Development, 7.5 credits
• Political Geography, 7.5 credits
• Planning in Political Geography, 7.5 credits
• North & South: The Basics of U-Landscaping, 7.5 credits (NOTE! Summer course)

Course certificates, credits, appeals, etc. are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance.