The syllabus reflects the shifting challenges confronting the European Union. It includes an analysis of the institutions of the European Union in the context of questions of European identity, the democratic deficit, Euroscepticism and likely reforms. The course also covers the nature, history and evolution of major policies and their impact on member states as well as the wider debate over the evolution of the European Union as it confronts `globalisation'.

Other considerations include the perspective of member states on issues like defence, social policy, culture and enlargement; and the European Union in the world, as an expanding regional bloc.  By taking an overall thematic approach, the course will equip students with an understanding of the European Union and the issues it confronts and engenders.

One research essay of 2,500 words (60%) and one shorter essay of 1,500 words (40%).

22 hours of lectures and 11 tutorials. Lectures will be recorded on DLD.

Provided in the course guide at outset of the course.