Time Schedule:
Michaela M. Wright
EURO 490
Seattle Campus
Class description
The course aims to analyze developments in the European Union, notably the main policy challenges relating to EU integration, external and trade relations. Particular attention will be devoted to the impact of the forthcoming enlargement. The intention is to: Explain the history, politics, policies and government of the EU; Offer some insights into the practice of work in and around the EU institutions; Examine the policy and reform challenges facing the EU: - the expansion of the EU from 15 to 25+ countries - the 2004 intergovernmental conference - the EU as a global actor and its relations with the US
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
This is a seminar-style course, and will include presentations on a variety of topics relevant to European integration since 1945. The course is divided into 3 main components: history and development of the EU, the EU in the world, and selected policies which are examined in detail. The course will be more ‘applied’ than theoretical, and will foster discussion on EU development and policies. The course will make considerable use of web-based and primary EU documents.
Recommended preparation
Students are expected to keep up with each week’s required readings and to participate in and contribute actively to class discussions. Strongly recommended background is: POL SCI 346, European Studies 301 or similar background in European politics or governance.
Class assignments and grading
Assessment will be based on a 5-page mid-term paper on a topic relevant to the course content (20%), a presentation in class (20%), an 8-page final paper on a topic relevant to the course content (40%), and class participation (20%).
