European Studies (Master's Programme)
Hva lærer du?
Currently, Europe finds itself in the midst of several ongoing crises: an expansionist and bellicose Russia that openly violates the basic pillars of international law, the rise of populist and radical right parties that challenge the democratic foundations of the liberal international order and the EU as such, and rapidly escalating climate change that threatens the socio-economic and political security on the continent. NTNU’s Master’s Program in European Studies provides students with a framework for understanding the complex nature and context of these crises and trains a new generation of critical, young experts that can help tackle these challenges. It does so under the theme of “European Security and Democracy in the Age of Extremes.” Applying a variety of teaching philosophies, our courses are taught by an international faculty and engage students in a timely and innovative curriculum that deepens their knowledge of the internal and external dimensions of European integration, international relations, and contemporary history. The Trondheim approach sets itself apart in in at least two respects. First, being based in Norway, the program offers students a unique perspective on European integration from the vantage point of a non-EU member state that is, nonetheless, closely tied to the EU. Second, our students have the opportunity to complete a six-month internship with a relevant public or private institution dealing with European affairs in Norway or abroad. This internship provides them with on-the-job-training, enhances their cultural competence, and expands their professional skills and network. As such, it provides students with a competitive advantage for their future careers in Europe.
Key features:
- 2-year, full-time Masters, taught in English
- Multidisciplinary (Political Science, International Relations, Area Studies, Contemporary History)
- Outside-in perspectives on European integration
- Small classes, offering space for open and critical debates
- Internships as an integral part of course of study
- International faculty
Competence Profiles in European Studies
Learning outcome
A candidate who has completed his or her qualification should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:
Knowledge
Candidates have
- acquired a refined and advanced understanding of the political, economic and cultural developments in Europe and the EU and the multi-faceted processes of European integration and cooperation;
- further developed their knowledge of theories and research methods relevant to the study of Europe, European integration and European relations, and can apply these theories and methods in their thesis;
- acquired a thorough understanding of how various European countries – particularly Norway – have chosen to participate in or opt out of European integration schemes;
- acquired specialized knowledge in a chosen area and topic (based on their MA thesis) within the programme focus areas (EU/European integration/European relations);
- the ability to develop original ideas within a research context.
Skills
Candidates have
- the ability to critically reflect on and interpret European events, developments or policies and to use different methodologies in an integrated manner;
- capacity of utilising and applying their knowledge of Europe and the EU to formulate complex and nuanced judgements in the multidisciplinary context of European Studies and to reflect on the application of their knowledge and judgements;
- demonstrated their ability to collect, analyse and interpret various types of data and handle complexity;
- acquired the learning skills necessary to study, conduct scientific research and more generally work and study in a self-directed and autonomous manner in accordance with ethical norms;
- the ability to communicate orally and in writing their findings in English using the appropriate terminology to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
General competencies
Candidates
- have gained in-depth insights into the problems and opportunities relating to cooperation across borders and be able to apply this knowledge and expertise to new areas to carry out professional tasks and projects;
- can construct multiple perspectives in the understanding of human and institutional behaviour;
- can identify, obtain and analyse large amounts of complex and specialist information;
- have acquired a relevant professional skill set, including organisational, communication, presentation, innovation, analytical, independent and team-work skills;
- have gained international mobility (study abroad) or professional experience (internship).
