PL9198: Introduction to European Integration

School Politics and International Relations
Department Code LAWPL
Module Code PL9198
External Subject Code 100491
Number of Credits 20
Level L4
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Stephen Marsh
Semester Autumn Semester
Academic Year 2014/5

Outline Description of Module

This double module examines the development of the European Union, its key international relationships and its emergence as a global economic and security actor.This double module examines the development of the European Union, its key international relationships and its emergence as a global economic and security actor.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

At the end of the course students should be able to: demonstrate a working knowledge of the main developments in European integration since 1945; develop a conceptual framework by which to explain the evolution of European integration; undertake analysis, including that of a comparative nature, of contemporary attitudes of member states and their citizens toward integration; demonstrate a critical awareness of the EU as an actor in the contemporary international political system; formulate objective and informed opinions about the development of, and contemporary issues facing, the EU.

How the module will be delivered

There are two lectures each week and fortnightly seminars to discuss issues raised in lectures. Attendance at seminars is compulsory. Lectures provide introduction to module material. Seminars offer opportunity to research and discuss material raised in lectures at greater depth.

Skills that will be practised and developed

Listening and note-taking skills; Academic writing skills; Independent study skills; Knowledge building skills; Research skills; Presentation skills; Debating skills; Teamwork skills.

How the module will be assessed

Type of assessment

%Contribution

Title

Duration
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment

Essay

50

Coursework

 

Semester 1

Unseen written exam

50

 

1.5 hours

Semester 1

The opportunity for reassessment in this module

Opportunityto re-sit exam and submit new assessed essays in summer.

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Written Assessment 50 Essay (Autumn Semester) N/A
Exam - Autumn Semester 50 Introduction To European Integration 1.5

Syllabus content

Part 1 - Development and Explanation.

Introduction and the pre-history of integration; immediate postwar integration; Integration and key treaties; EU development as an economic actor; EU development as a security actor; explaining the evolution of integration.

Part 2 – Contemporary Developments

Member states ( Germany, Britain, Spain, Post-Cold War enlargements: 1995, 2004 and 2007; EU and its citizens); The EU's International Relations (The EU and Russia;  The EU and the Eastern Partnership; The EU and the Mediterranean; The EU and the USA; The EU and the Developing World)

Essential Reading and Resource List

The European Union changes rapidly and students are expected to read quality newspapers, academic journals and relevant web materials. They should also make use of the European Documentation Centre.


Copyright Cardiff University. Registered charity no. 1136855