Life-politics refers to the change of emphasis from governmental policies to the life strategies and to the position of individuals and groups who are faced with increasing possibilities and obligations to choose and to reflect upon their choices. At present, the department's strongest areas in research and teaching are the social problems of Eastern Europe, welfare state and its future, problems of old age, life stories and life course, urban and environmental problems. In social policy the emphasis is on observing the welfare state and its alternative institutions. Studies include questions concerning social theory, social changes and life-politics. Students will also become acquainted with one specialised field in social policy.
Social work is focused on problems of everyday life and empowerment processes.
It also deals with social problems such as poverty, drug abuse, violence, refugees, minorities, and other marginalized people. The core of social work is solving and alleviating social problems. Moreover, social work tries to make an impact on political decision-making processes, and it aims at strengthening communities and various population groups in the society.