MA Political Science - European Politics & Policy Pathway (Standard Route)
Year of entry: 2024
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Course unit details:
European Union Foreign Policy
Unit code | POLI70851 |
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Credit rating | 15 |
Unit level | FHEQ level 7 – master's degree or fourth year of an integrated master's degree |
Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
Available as a free choice unit? | Yes |
Overview
In the first few weeks the module, introduces students to the basic institutional and conceptual framework of the EU's international role, as well as theoretical and critical assessments. We then examine the EU's role in various policy domains, including enlargement, economic diplomacy, foreign and security policy, and the environment. The module concludes with a reflection on the future of the EU's relations with the world.
Aims
The aims of this module are to provide students with a theoretically informed understanding of the European Union’s international role; to examine the different tools through which the European Union pursues its external relations, particularly in economic and environmental governance; to evaluate the development of a foreign policy and security role on the part of the European Union; to familiarise students with the multiplicity of actors and decision-making processes that shape the European Union’s international presence and to analyse the evolving relations between the European Union and the rest of the world.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the course students will develop a broad and specialist knowledge of the EU’s relations with its major international partners; have acquired an appreciation of critical historical junctures and patterns in the development of European Union’s international presence; be able to relate current conceptual debates to the empirical analysis of the EU’s external role and develop presentation and essay-writing skills.
Teaching and learning methods
Student-led seminars. Reflections on academic sources, and debating exercises, will serve as the basis for group discussion.
Assessment methods
Method | Weight |
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Other | 20% |
Written assignment (inc essay) | 80% |
2,800 word essay (80%), presentation (20%)
Recommended reading
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Keukeleire, S. and Delreux, T. (2014) The Foreign Policy of the European Union; is the recommended course textbook; Chapter 2 – ‘European Integration and Foreign Policy: Historical Overview’ is the best chapter to read as an introduction to this module.
Study hours
Scheduled activity hours | |
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Seminars | 20 |
Independent study hours | |
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Independent study | 130 |
Teaching staff
Staff member | Role |
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Paul Tobin | Unit coordinator |
Additional notes
Timetable