PPR224: The Politics of the European Union

Tutors: Karolina Follis (Michaelmas) and Martin Steven (Lent)
Terms: Michaelmas and Lent

Course Description

The course is intended to provide a comprehensive survey of the politics of European Union, covering the origins of the EU, the principal institutions of the EU, the main policies of the EU, and the main theoretical debates on the EU. Students will be expected to tie theories of integration to the actual workings of the Union.

This course is designed as an introduction to the history and politics of European integration. It begins with an introduction to the history of European integration and European integration theory followed by explanation and evaluation of the role of EU institutions, particularly the Commission, European Parliament, Council of Ministers and Court of Justice. The course then focuses on core policy areas including: European Monetary Union, social policy and regional policy. It concludes with an exploration of the evolving relationship between the EU and UK and explores how this relationship impacts on UK national politics and policies.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a general knowledge of the theories of integration and history of the European Union
• Demonstrate a general knowledge of the main institutions and some of the core policies of the European Union
• Demonstrate a general knowledge of the EU-UK relationship
• Critically evaluate the history, theories, institutions and policies of the European Union as well as the EU-UK relationship and demonstrate these skills through written and examined work

Assessment

40% coursework and 60% exam.
Coursework: 2 essays of 2500 words each. Exam: 3 hours.

Teaching Method

Lecture (1.5 hours) and seminar (1 hour) weekly.

Introductory Reading

Dinan D Ever Closer Union ? : An Introduction to the European Community

George S & Bache I Politics and Policy in the European Community

Laffin B Integration and Co-operation in Europe

Lodge J (ed) Institutions and Policies of the European Community

Nugent N The Government and Politics of the European Union

Swann D The Economics of the European Community

Tsoukalis L (ed) The European Community

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