Course content

This course provides an introduction to the EU as a customs union, the single market and the monetary union. It provides an introduction to the processes that lies behind the outlining and intentions of these, how they function, and the challenges of maintaining them.
In relation to the analysis of the customs union, the single market and the monetary union, subjects such as the EU trade policy, competition policy and the integration of employment and social affairs will be discussed. The analysis of the monetary union will in particular elaborate on the tensions and relations between the macro-economics of the member states. With regard to the written assignment the student is allowed to focus on other policy areas, e.g. the European Energy Policy. The economical theoretical foundation of the course does not require any previous education in political or social economics.

Learning outcome

This course should provide the students with a general knowledge that enables them to analyse the political economy of the EU and the ambitions to converge the national economies. This course should in particular provide an insight into the purpose and intentions of, in addition to the challenges with, maintaining the customs union, the single market and the monetary union.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and Seminars

Compulsory assignments

• Written assignment /Oral presentation

Recommended previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in European Studies and Foreign Languages, History, Political Science, Philosophy or equivalent approved education.

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in European Studies and Foreign Languages, History, Political Science, Philosophy or equivalent approved education.

Course materials

The reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester

Credit reductions