Undergraduate | LTU-LST2DRU-2023
Drugs, Governance and Modern Society
Study method
100% online
Assessments
100% online
Entry requirements
Prior study needed
Duration
5 weeks
Start dates
- 12 June 2023
Price from
$1,892
Upfront cost
$0
About this subject
What you'll learn
- Distinguish between different drugs according to their classification, composition and effects.
- Identify and assess key approaches to the regulation of drugs and drug use.
- Recognise and communicate how social, economic and political factors have shaped the development of drug distribution, locally and globally.
- Critically reflect in a well-informed manner on the social, political, economic and ethical challenges involved in formulating approaches to drugs and drug use.
- • What is the “Drug Problem”?
- • A short history of drug regulation in Australia.
- • Grand theories of drug use.
- • Harm reduction and public health.
- • The global trade in illicit drugs & street-based drug distribution networks.
- • The drugs-crime nexus & the drug court model.
In this online subject students will acquire an understanding of the complexities surrounding drugs and drug use in contemporary Australia. The subject addresses: the classification and effects of licit and illicit substances; the development and nature of contemporary drug distribution networks; major approaches to regulating drugs and drug use; and the key debates and challenges involved in formulating policy and practice in this area. Australia's experiences will be considered from a local as well as global perspective, with attention being paid to how social, economic and political factors influence understandings and practices relating to drugs. Specific topics explored include: alcohol and other drug consumption patterns among young people; pill testing debates; the rise of online illicit drug markets; drug court models; drug education; decriminalization and legalization efforts; and contemporary debates around harm reduction strategies (e.g. safe injecting facilities).
- One 1,200 word research essay (30%)
- Online quizzes (equivalent to 400 words) Quizzes included in online modules. (10%)
- Two short critical responses (equivalent to 1200 words) (30%)
- One fact sheet (750 words) and statement of intent (200 words) (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
The third university established in Victoria, La Trobe University has a diverse community of more than 38,000 students and staff. Its commitment to excellence in teaching and research prepares students to make a bold and positive impact in today's global community. La Trobe provides Open Universities Australia with its core tenets, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
Learn more about La Trobe.
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QS Ranking 2023: 20
Times Higher Education Ranking 2023: 16
Entry requirements
Others
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following degrees
UndergraduateLAT-TEC-DEG
UndergraduateLAT-BUS-DEG
UndergraduateLAT-ART-DEG
UndergraduateLAT-PYS-DEG
UndergraduateLAT-CYS-DEG
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