Programme overview

These days, we all have questions about the European Union. Why do governments choose to give some of their powers to institutions in Brussels? How has the EU changed over time, and how does it work today? How does the process of Brexit work? How are decisions made? Who’s really in charge?

This module will enable you to answer these questions. We will be delving into the nature of European integration, and addressing contemporary problems faced by the European Union (EU) in a thematic way.

Programme content

The course introduces students to the European Union, covering the history of European Integration, the main institutions and the policy making process.

Then the second term involves lectures and seminars that discuss contemporary debates surrounding the EU. Students are encouraged to participate, and to bring their own experiences of the EU to the discussions.

Throughout the course students will also be encouraged to develop their academic writing, research and presentation skills.

At the end of the year, students take part in a simulation exercise, where they will address a tricky problem of European Integration, like the economic reform agenda, the migration crisis, Brexit or some other crisis that develops through the year. Putting what you have learned throughout the year into practice – would you be able to come up with a better solution to a policy problem than the politicians?