Department of European Studies & Modern Languages, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

EU20105 Politics of the European Union

Credits: 6

Level: Intermediate

Semester: 1

Assessment: EX80OT20

Requisites:

Aims: To introduce students to key theories of European integration; to trace the development of the European Union; to examine current debates around the future of the European Union, including the impact of enlargement.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will develop:
* an awareness and understanding of key contemporary debates on European integration;
* an understanding of how European integration works in terms of institutions and the dynamic of integration;
* an ability to discuss contemporary issues concerning European institutions and the future of European integration.
Skills:
Skills in critical analysis, conceptual thinking, precision in the use of written and spoken language, exercise of independent judgement, reasoned argument, and the planning/conduct/reporting of non-quantitative research are taught and assessed in this unit. Skills in effective learning are developed in this unit.
Content:
The origins of the European Community; treaty reform in the 1980s and 1990s; institutions and the "democratic deficit"; the European Union as a world actor; moves towards a European constitution; citizenship; eastward enlargement.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07