ST-202 The European Union - Institutions and Politics

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Bachelor's Programme in Political Science
• Advanced Teacher Education level 8-13, 5-year Master's Programme

Teaching language

English

Recommended prerequisites

One year of studies in political science or equivalent studies.

Course contents

Despite several internal crises (e.g. the Euro-crisis) and external challenges such as for example the rise of China, the European Union (EU) continues to be a significant actor in international politics. This course offers an introduction into the politics of the European Union which is moving from a system of integration to a system of differentiated integration. It explores the decision-making processes, key policies of the European Union and relations with its member states against the backdrop of the history of European integration and European integration theory. The course seeks to address some of the fundamental questions of European integration: How did – and still do – European nations with so different cultures, historical trajectories and no common language manage to combine their own interests in an increasingly integrated, but also differentiated union? Why do European states transfer sovereignty to supranational institutions – and even more so in times of economic and financial crisis? What will is the future of the EU likely to be in light of rising Euro-scepticism and populism?

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will

• aquire a sound knowledge of European integration, history, EU institutions and policies as well as the interplay between member states and the Union (captures by the term 'Europeanization'

• learn to differentiate between different concepts and theories of European Integration

• be able to apply analytical tools and theoretically informed models to recent and current events and issues

• be able to demonstrate familiarity of the current challenges confronting the EU and their member states

• be able to critically assess well-established approaches and dissenting arguments

Teaching methods

Plenary lectures and seminars. Estimated workload is 270 hours.

Evaluation

The study program coordinator and the student representative determine the evaluation form, and whether the courses/subjects are to be assessed mid-way or upon completion (cf. the quality system, chapter 4.1. Information about the course/subject will be published in Canvas).

Admission for external candidates

No

Offered as Single Standing Module

Yes. Subject to availability.

Assessment methods and criteria

The final grade will comprise of a written essay and a school exam.

 

1) Essay paper (40% of the final grade)

 

2) Written exam (60 % of the final grade)

 

Both parts of the exam must be passed in order to pass the exam.