Politics of Europe and the European Union (MSc - MRes)
ObjectivesThis programme is ideally suited to you if you want to develop an advanced understanding of national politics in Europe and the European Union. The MRes also provides a specialist research track.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Degree or equivalent. Evidence of English language proficiency. Previous experience in social sciences study would be advantageous, but is not essential. Written work may be requested, and a short written test may also be required.
Academic titlePolitics of Europe and the European Union (MSc / MRes)
Course descriptionYou will take core courses and options, and write a dissertation.
Core course 1, Politics of West and Central Europe, examines national political systems in west and central Europe from a comparative perspective by looking at: democratic transition; constitutional design and practice; parties and party systems; political leadership; national identity, citizenship and territory; organised interests and the state; politics and the judiciary; the changing role of the state.
Core course 2, The European Union – Integration, Politics and Policy, investigates the dynamics of European integration, European Union politics and policy-making and the reconfiguration of European institutions since the end of the Cold War by looking at: origins of European integration; the development of European institutions; EU policy process and policies; the EU and the member states; the collapse of Communism; building a post-Cold-War architecture; the challenge of enlargement.
The core courses are supplemented by options and completion of a dissertation on an agreed subject. Modules are normally available in:
-British, US and European government and politics
-international relations, international security, and US foreign policy
-politics of globalisation and international political economy
-politics, policy and administration of the EU
-political theory and political sociology
-war, conflict, nationalism, politics and religion
-policy analysis, policy-making processes and comparative public policy
-public management and public sector reform
-research methods.
For MRes students, research methods training forms part of the programme's core elements.
Dissertation. Preparing the dissertation will enable you to acquire an in-depth understanding of a particular topic in politics or sociology, and to develop research skills.