Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

Knowledge of EU politics at introductory level recommended (e.g. ST-202) or, alternatively, use of John McCormick, Understanding the European Union. A Concise Introduction (London and Basingstoke: Palgrave 2014) and Michele Cini & Nieves Peréz-Solórzano Borragán (eds), European Union Politics (Oxford: Oxford University Press 2013) for thorough preparation prior to the courses.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student

  • has broad knowledge of the motives behind the process of European integration
  • is familiar with the functioning of key European Union policies, the organisational set-up of EU institutions and their dynamic interplay with the Member States
  • has insights of different concepts and theories of European integration and to apply analytical tools to issues of European integration
  • can evaluate and refer to well-established approaches and dissenting arguments

Contents

This course explores core features of the political system of the European Union and addresses amongst other topics:

  • the history of European unification and integration, especially the development of the European Union since 1951
  • core aspects of the cultural, socio-economic, legal and political dimensions of European integration
  • theories of regional integration, in particular with regards to Europe
  • institutions and Member States of the European Union
  • decision- and policy-making in the European Union
  • policies of the European Union, e.g. the Economic and Monetary Union
  • future perspectives of the European Union

Teaching and learning methods

This course is offered during summer and will be based on lectures, working groups and seminars. Students are expected to engage actively.

Examination requirements

Graded paper of ca. 1500 words and a minimum of 80% of class attendance.

Examinations

Four hours written exam with graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 9:53:20 AM