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BA European Studies
About this course
European Studies is a discipline that exists precisely because Europe, as a political, economic and cultural phenomenon, is too complex and too important to be understood through any single academic lens. It brings together history, politics, economics, sociology and cultural studies to ask how Europe has become what it is today, how the continent's institutions and states relate to one another, what forces of integration and fragmentation are at work, and what Europe's future might look like. The subject is never far from the news, and the academic training it provides gives you the tools to understand that news deeply rather than superficially. This four-year full-time degree at the University of Essex takes seriously the geo-political importance of Europe and the complexity of the modern European project. You will study the history of European integration, the institutions and policies of the European Union, comparative European politics and economies, and the cultural and social dimensions of European identity and diversity. The programme develops strong analytical and argumentative skills alongside a genuine depth of knowledge about a region that remains central to global politics, trade and culture. The four-year structure allows for depth of engagement with the subject across its multiple dimensions. Graduates work in roles that engage with Europe and the institutions that govern and connect it, including the civil service, international organisations, European institutions, journalism, think tanks, business and international NGOs. The analytical skills and comparative knowledge the degree develops are also broadly applicable in public affairs, policy research, education and a wide range of roles where the ability to understand complex political and institutional contexts is valued. Postgraduate study in European studies, politics, international relations or area studies is a common next step for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.
Syllabus & Modules
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