Master International and European Studies (Problem Based Learning)
ObjectivesBoth the European Union (EU) and the international system raise issues that cut across disciplinary boundaries. The most fruitful insights, therefore, are often derived from a combination of subject areas. For example, migration raises issues in economics, culture and identity, law and politics; international conflict may be based on disputes over resources, power politics, or long-term national and ethnic rivalries; economic and monetary union may involve as many constitutional and political questions as economic and financial ones. Policy-makers who try to resolve such matters do so on the basis of problem-solving rather than through pure theory associated with any single discipline. This new degree provides such an interdisciplinary analysis of International and European Studies. Its method of learning and teaching is innovative since a major responsibility is placed on you to work collectively in defining the problems that need to be resolved and the appropriate methodologies and theories. The staff provide the initial contextual lectures and then support and facilitate your project work. The combination of teamwork in the projects and individual research in the dissertation makes PBL beneficial in preparing you for employment in the areas of policy analysis and policy making. The degree is also offered as professional training for those in governmental, multilateral and non-governmental organisations. Finally, it will provide a useful basis for those wishing to do other research degrees.
Entry requirementsAn appropriate degree in a relevant subject. Applicants will normally be interviewed.
Academic titleMA International and European Studies
Course description Course structure
The course is structured around two main themes: International and European.
All modules are compulsory.
Autumn Semester (Semester A):
-Theories of International Relations
-International Institutions: Conflict and Cooperation
-International System:1914-2004
Spring Semester (Semester B):
-Culture, Identity and Politics
-European Integration
-EU Enlargement
The dissertation can be on any topic within the range of the course. Length 15,000-20,000 words.
Assessment
Assessment methods will be mainly centred around project work.
Career opportunities
This degree will prepare you for a range of employment opportunities in public and private organisations at local, regional, national and international levels. It is also excellent preparation for further study.