Syllabus

The Swedish Education System

Code
GPG3JC
Points
7.5 Credits
Level
First Cycle
School
School of Culture and Society
Subject field
Educational Work (PGA)
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
No main field of study1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1GXX
Approved
Approved, 27 January 2026.
This syllabus is valid from 15 March 2026.
Download as pdf To course page

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course, students will be able to: 

  • describe the Swedish preschool, compulsory school and upper secondary school, as well as the organisation and governance of school forms 
  • describe and reflect on the meaning of value-based and democracy-oriented work in Swedish preschools and schools 
  • compare the Swedish school system with their own country’s school system in terms of values, organisation and governance 
  • speak and write in accordance with academic standards and in such a way that the content is clear.

Course Content

The course examines how contemporary education for children and young people is organised and governed in Sweden, and includes a brief historical overview. Key themes that are highlighted in the course are the importance of democracy for the Swedish school system, working with core values, and supporting children in need of special assistance. Comparisons are made between education at different levels in the students’ own countries and in Sweden. The course also includes field studies at a Swedish preschool or school.

Assessment

  • Discussion and presentation during the seminar
  • Field assignment 
  • Written individual assignment

Grades

The grading scale used for the final course grade is U–VG.

Grades are reported as follows:

  • The Swedish Education System - 7.5 Credits | U–VG

Entry Requirements

  • General entry requirements (with the exemption of the requirement in Swedish for those with foreign grades

Other Information

The course is only available to visiting foreign students.

All instruction is in English.

This course cannot be counted towards the same degree along with courses that have equivalent content.

If the student has received a decision/recommendation granting study support from Dalarna University because of a disability, then the examiner has the right to offer an alternative examination arrangement. The examiner takes into account the objectives in the course syllabus when deciding whether the examination can be adapted in accordance with the decision/recommendation.