International Relations and Politics in the European Union
| Study location | Netherlands, Maastricht |
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| Type | January programmes, full-time |
| Nominal duration | 2.5 weeks (7.5 ECTS) |
| Study language | English |
| Tuition fee | €2,245 per programme |
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| Dormitory fee | C single € 810,- |
| Entry qualification | Enrolled as an Undergraduate student or Undergraduate diploma The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original. |
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| Language requirements | English Please attach proof of English proficiency or clearly state in your motivation letter any previous English experience through education, upbringing or jobs. We pride ourselves on our interactive courses and we therefore want to ensure all students can participate to the full extent. |
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| More information |
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Overview
International Relations and Politics in the EU
The European Union (EU) was created in the wake of the Second World War, largely to prevent further mass conflict by focusing on economic and political integration.
Beginning in 1951 with six members, the EU has grown to a current membership of 27 nations, almost half a billion citizens, covering most of the European continent. It is the first time in history that so many nations have been willing to sacrifice certain aspects of national sovereignty in order to achieve peace and stability, but also economic and social justice. The ‘European experiment’ is now an established reality. However, Europe’s future is far from certain. With Brexit, immigration challenges and the rise of the political far right, it is poised between protecting national interests and further integration.
The EU is a symbol of pan-European cooperation and diplomacy after centuries of ceaseless upheaval. Even amid ‘Euro-scepticism’ and the growing divisions created by economic austerity, the EU continues to inspire citizens all over the world.
Fast facts
Ideal for students interested in exploring EU international relations, history and politics, economic and legal issues
Direct enrolment
Supportive staff available
Why this programme?
The development of a united Europe
During the programme, students will analyse the historical, political and economic foundations of the rise of the European Union, from its post-World War II origins to the historic enlargements of 2004, 2007 and 2013. Students will also examine the present tensions within the EU and their direct relationship to the various aspects of European integration. The course focuses on the protection of human rights within the EU, especially in the context of European integration, the UN framework for the protection of fundamental freedoms and the European Convention on Human Rights. By the end of the programme, students will have received comprehensive coverage of the key political, legal and economic policy areas of the EU. This programme is ideal for students interested in exploring EU international relations, history and politics, economic and legal issues, and the global challenges and opportunities that it faces today.
Programme dates
January 2025:
5 – 25 January 2025
What can you expect from CES?
At CES we have a small team of young-hearted, dedicated people ready to help you, before, during and after the programme. Read more.
Before you start…
You will have one person responsible for your programme, who will guide you through the application process. The programme coordinator will sign you up for classes. You can contact your coordinator with any question you might have.
During the programme…
During the programme, your coordinator will be available to assist you with any questions or issues that may arise.
Workload
The total workload for January programmes is 36 class hours, during which time students earn 7.5 ECTS credits. How ECTS credits transfer back depends on your home university or college. Generally, a 5 – 6.5 ECTS course is the equivalent of a full semester course (3 American credit hours).
Credits
Maastricht University uses the European-wide ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) to measure academic progress.
Rankings & recognition
An intensive study experience
Maastricht is located between the ‘capital of the European Union’, Brussels, Amsterdam and The Hague, centres of international law and politics. The city is renowned as the birthplace of the Maastricht Treaty, which established the European Union.
Maastricht University is an internationally renowned research university with a prestigious Law faculty, dozens of academic programmes in English and a focus on internationalism and themes of European integration.
High academic standard
CES programmes are designed for enthusiastic and intellectually curious students dedicated to expanding their academic horizons. To ensure that students do well, CES offers extensive academic advising, workshops and regular monitoring. Maastricht University uses Problem-Based Learning (PBL), a student-centred teaching approach. Small groups of students (12-15) work on academic or practical cases prepared by their professors. Faculty act as guides to students who are in charge of their own learning and are expected to be committed, active and self-motivated.
Your future
My time with the CES was very useful for ultimately getting my position at the ICTY. It helped me to better understand the jurisdiction of the EU and the work of the International Courts.
Aphra Lee – University of Melbourne
Make yourself marketable to your future employer by completing an international study programme. A proven track record for being culturally sensitive, independent and proactive makes you a much more valuable candidate for employment, as does having a wider worldview and a deeper understanding of international affairs and global issues.
Admission requirements
Acceptance to the Open Enrolment Programmes is competitive and early application is recommended. While most students participating in our open enrolment programmes are undergraduates at the junior or senior level, applications by motivated students at the sophomore and/or freshman level with a good GPA will be considered too.
You should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in order to apply for a CES Open Enrolment Programme. If you have a lower GPA, you can request to be considered if you can show a recommendation from a professor or academic advisor at your home university or college with specific details about your academic development so far.
Applicants must be proficient in English. Non-native speakers are required to demonstrate proof of English language proficiency.
Students with an International Baccalaureate or European Baccalaureate diploma are exempted, as are EU-nationals. International students who are enrolled as fulltime students at university or college in a native-speaking country where English is the language of instruction are also exempted.