Aims
This course will explore the links between national politics and the process of European integration. This exploration will adopt a dual focus: first, by examining the impact of member states? political systems, parties and internal political conflicts on the operation of the Union; secondly, by considering how the existence of the EU shapes political processes at the national level. These dual themes will be examined through an assessment of various theoretical perspectives and the consideration of several case studies.

Objectives

• To help students understand more about the reciprocal influences of national and EU-level politics: this entails both developing a greater awareness of how national political systems and processes shape European integration, and a similar appreciation of the effects of the EU on national politics;

• To develop students? research, writing, analysis and presentation skills.