DIPL 2111 SP/ 6410 SP The European Union Study Tour

This course will examine the European Union and its role in international affairs. This will be done through a combination of traditional learning and a ten-day study tour. Students will be provided with an overview of the initial goals and historical development of the European Union as it has “widened” to include new members and “deepened” to encompass more issues and activities. The basic institutional features of this important international organization will be studied and, to the extent possible, visited during our time in Europe. Given the diplomatic dimension of this course, special attention will be paid to the various actors involved in the political processes of the EU as they attempt to design, coordinate, implement, and follow policies at the regional level. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the EU’s activities in regards to a wide range of issue areas, and to critically evaluate the future development of this unique supranational organization. As an added bonus, our travels in Europe will provide students with the opportunity to visit some additional international organizations based in and around our home city of Brussels, Belgium. More information about the historical development and current challenges facing these other institutions will be provided once these additional visits are confirmed