Governance in the European Union from edX

This course examines the multi-level governance system of the European Union.

Its purpose is to make sense of the intricate web of institutions, actors, rules and processes involved in European integration and EU policy-making. In doing so, its looks both at the EU’s institutional set-up, the role of its member states as well as European non-governmental actors, such as civil society actors. The extent to which the different actors can exert power and impact the policy-making process within the EU is thoroughly discussed.

The course also explores and theorises the EU’s role on the global stage, as well as how it deals with European and global challenges. Attention is drawn to both internal and external challenges the EU faces, by discussing contemporary contestations of European governance.

Case studies from the environmental policy domain will be presented to illustrate how EU policy-making works in practice.

Six modules are developed to guide you through this learning journey. Each of the modules will approach the learning objectives by considering the EU from a multi-level perspective. We will come back time and time again to the synergies, and possible tensions, between the EU and the Member States, and the EU and other global or regional actors.

The six modules are divided up as follows:

The Nature of the EU: we will tackle questions about what the EU is, what it is not, and how the EU came to be as it is today.
The EU's Institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making EU institutions.
Policy-making in the EU: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the EU.
Stakeholders and their role in European governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, EU citizens and EU elections.
The European Union in World Politics: we will consider the EU's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
Contestation in the EU: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the EU, and how the bloc has responded.

What's inside

Learning objectives

The nature of the eu: we will tackle questions about what the eu is, what it is not, and how the eu came to be as it is today.
The eu's institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making eu institutions.
Policy-making in the eu: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the eu.

Stakeholders and their role in european governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, eu citizens and eu elections.
The european union in world politics: we will consider the eu's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
Contestation in the eu: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the eu, and how the bloc has responded.

The nature of the eu: we will tackle questions about what the eu is, what it is not, and how the eu came to be as it is today.
The eu's institutions: we will delve into the functioning and evolution of the main decision-making eu institutions.
Policy-making in the eu: we will highlight the main policy-making procedures, actors and processes that occur in the eu.
Stakeholders and their role in european governance: we will discuss the role of lobbyists, eu citizens and eu elections.
The european union in world politics: we will consider the eu's own objectives on the global stage and its multilateral and bilateral relations in the world.
Contestation in the eu: we will explore periods of crises and contestation in the eu, and how the bloc has responded.

Syllabus

Module 1: The Nature of the EU

Determine the nature and evolution of the EU, both theoretically and in practice

Assess the potential scenarios for further EU integration

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops understanding of the European Union's multi-level governance system

Provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex interplay of EU institutions, actors, and processes

Examines the EU's evolving role on the global stage

Taught by reputable instructors with expertise in European integration

May require prior knowledge of or interest in European politics

Covers a wide range of topics, which may appeal to learners with varying interests

Reviews summary

Comprehensive eu governance deep dive

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the European Union's governance, ideal for those seeking a deep dive into its complex institutions and policy-making. Learners commend the well-structured lectures and the inclusion of both theoretical frameworks and practical case studies. The content is considered current and highly relevant, especially the module on Contestation in the EU. However, some find the course very academic and theory-heavy, suggesting it may be demanding or overwhelming for beginners without a strong prior background in political science.

Content is current and relevant to ongoing European challenges.

"I particularly appreciated the module on 'Contestation in the EU,' which felt very timely and relevant to current European challenges."

"The most recent module on 'Contestation' was particularly strong and updated, showing the course keeps up with current developments."

"The content is current, well-researched, and presented clearly."

Delivers a highly theoretical and in-depth academic approach.

"It delves deep into various theories of integration, which is good for academic purposes."

"A good, detailed look into the intricacies of EU governance. The modules on policy-making and stakeholders were particularly enlightening."

"Perfect for those pursuing advanced studies or a career requiring in-depth EU knowledge."

Provides a deep and nuanced understanding of EU governance.

"This course provided an incredibly comprehensive and nuanced understanding of EU governance."

"Excellent course, providing a deep dive into EU institutions and historical context. It's truly comprehensive."

"Overall, a very solid course on the EU. The depth of analysis into the institutions and policy-making procedures was excellent."

The course is academically dense and may be overwhelming for beginners.

"It's a demanding course but highly rewarding for serious learners."

"The course is informative, but it's very academic and theory-heavy. If you're looking for a quick overview or something light, this isn't it."

"I personally found it a bit overwhelming without a strong prior background in political science."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Governance in the European Union with these activities:

Review what you already know about multiple-level governance

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Activate prior knowledge, increasing the likelihood for forming connections with new information

Browse courses on Governance

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Recall and write down what you remember about multiple-level governance and its key concepts.
Consider the different levels of governance involved and how they interact.

Explore an interactive timeline of EU integration

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Gain a visual understanding of the historical development of the EU, providing context for current governance structures

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Visit the European Union website and access the interactive timeline.
Navigate through the timeline, exploring key milestones and events.
Identify patterns and trends in the integration process.

Discuss EU governance in a peer group

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Engage in active learning and knowledge exchange by discussing course concepts with peers, reinforcing understanding

Browse courses on EU Institutions

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Form a peer group with classmates.
Choose a topic related to EU governance to discuss.
Prepare talking points and research to support your discussion.

Five other activities

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Analyze EU policy documents

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Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing real-world EU policy documents, deepening understanding of policy-making processes

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Choose an EU policy document relevant to your interests.
Read and analyze the document, identifying key issues, objectives, and proposed actions.
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the policy.

Create a presentation on a specific EU policy area

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Synthesize knowledge by researching and presenting on a specific EU policy area, fostering a deeper understanding of policy content and processes

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Choose a specific EU policy area to focus on.
Research the policy area, gathering information from credible sources.
Develop a presentation that outlines the policy, its objectives, and its implementation.

Connect with an EU policy expert

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Gain insights from experienced professionals by connecting with an EU policy expert, enriching understanding of real-world policy dynamics

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Identify potential mentors through networking events or online platforms.
Reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in connecting.
Establish regular communication and ask thoughtful questions to gain insights.

Volunteer with an EU-focused organization

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the field by volunteering with an EU-focused organization, applying knowledge and developing new skills

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Research EU-focused organizations and identify ones that align with your interests.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Commit to a regular volunteering schedule and actively participate in the organization's activities.

Participate in an EU-themed case competition

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Test your knowledge and analytical skills by participating in an EU-themed case competition, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

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Identify EU-themed case competitions and register to participate.
Analyze the case study and develop a comprehensive solution.
Prepare and deliver a presentation to a panel of judges.

Career center

Learners who complete Governance in the European Union will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

European Law Expert

European Law Experts provide legal advice and support on matters related to EU law. This course would be highly beneficial for someone in this role because it covers the legal framework of the European Union, including its institutions, decision-making procedures, and enforcement mechanisms. This knowledge would enable someone to provide informed legal advice on EU-related matters and stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments in the EU.

See salaries and explore the career path for European Law Expert

Project Manager (EU Funded Projects)

Project Managers oversee the implementation of EU-funded projects. This course would be very beneficial for someone in this role because it provides a thorough understanding of the EU's funding mechanisms, project management procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively manage EU-funded projects and ensure their successful implementation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager (EU Funded Projects)

Academic Researcher (European Studies)

Academic Researchers specializing in European Studies conduct research on various aspects of the European Union. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the EU's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to conduct in-depth research on EU-related topics and contribute to a deeper understanding of the EU's political, economic, and social dynamics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Academic Researcher (European Studies)

EU Lobbyist

EU Lobbyists advocate for the interests of their clients before EU institutions. This course would be very helpful for someone in this role because it provides a thorough understanding of the EU's decision-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and policy-making procedures. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively represent their clients' interests and navigate the complex EU policy landscape.

See salaries and explore the career path for EU Lobbyist

European Policy Advisor

European Policy Advisors provide advice and support to organizations on policy issues related to the European Union. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it offers insights into the EU's governance system, including its policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and role in world politics. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively advise organizations on how to navigate the EU's policy landscape.

See salaries and explore the career path for European Policy Advisor

Teacher (Political Science or European Studies)

Teachers of Political Science or European Studies educate students about political systems, institutions, and processes. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to effectively teach students about the EU and its role in European and global affairs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher (Political Science or European Studies)

Government Relations Specialist

Government Relations Specialists promote their organization's agendas with government entities at the local, state, and federal levels. This course would be a great primer for someone interested in a career in this field because it provides a comprehensive grounding in the European Union and its governance, including an understanding of the EU's institutions, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This background would enable someone to effectively navigate the complex world of government relations.

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Journalist (European Affairs)

Journalists specializing in European Affairs report on EU-related news and developments. This course would be a valuable asset for someone in this role because it provides a deep understanding of the EU's governance system, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to accurately and effectively report on EU-related issues and provide informed analysis to the public.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist (European Affairs)

International Relations Analyst

International Relations Analysts research and analyze international political, economic, and social issues. This course would provide a useful foundation for someone in this role because it covers the European Union's role in world politics, including its foreign policy objectives, multilateral and bilateral relations, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of international relations and provide informed analysis on EU-related issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Relations Analyst

Risk Analyst (Political Risk)

Risk Analysts specializing in political risk assess and mitigate political risks for organizations. This course would be a helpful foundation for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's governance system, decision-making procedures, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the political landscape of the EU and assess potential political risks that could impact organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst (Political Risk)

Political Scientist

Political Scientists study political systems, institutions, and processes. This course would be beneficial for someone in this field because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's governance system, including its institutions, policy-making procedures, and stakeholder involvement. This knowledge would enable someone to conduct research and analysis on EU-related topics and contribute to a deeper understanding of the EU's political dynamics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist

Public Policy Analyst

Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and governance system. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of public policymaking in the EU context.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Policy Analyst

Think Tank Researcher

Think Tank Researchers conduct research and analysis on public policy issues. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides insights into the EU's policy-making processes, stakeholder involvement, and governance system. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the dynamics of public policymaking in the EU context and conduct informed research on EU-related issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Think Tank Researcher

International Development Consultant

International Development Consultants provide advice and support to organizations working in the field of international development. This course may be helpful for someone in this role because it offers insights into the EU's role in global development and its cooperation with other international organizations. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the EU's development agenda and contribute to the effective implementation of development projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Development Consultant

Foreign Service Officer

Foreign Service Officers represent their country's interests abroad. This course may be useful for someone in this role because it provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union's role in world politics, including its foreign policy objectives, multilateral and bilateral relations, and response to crises. This knowledge would enable someone to better understand the EU's foreign policy and represent their country's interests effectively in the context of the EU.

See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Service Officer