Description of the academic program:

The aim of the European Studies Summer School is to help students understand the political, economic, cultural and social accomplishments and challenges of the European Union, as well as to learn about the contributing factors that led to contemporary Europe. The interdisciplinary program provides a comprehensive introduction to the political, economic and social processes as well as the characteristics of the rich cultural heritage and cultural diversity in the European Union.

In addition to the history of European integration and the specifics of the work of the EU institutions, the summer school explores the European Union's role in world politics, focusing on political processes as well as current economic and social situations in the region. Students will also learn about the political, economic, social and cultural impacts of migration on Europe as well as the defining ideas related to sustainable development and the results achieved so far in the EU.

Besides the economic, political and social issues related to the European Union, the educational program focuses on the rich cultural heritage of Europe from historical perspectives to understand European cultural diversity today. Students will study the outstanding achievements of European art and the diversity of surviving folk traditions across Europe.  As intercultural communication plays an important role in the culturally diverse European Union today, students will also gain insight into the most important issues of European intercultural communication during immersive and interactive classes.

Learning outcomes:

The summer school will

• develop students’ comprehensive understanding of the political, economic, cultural and social achievements and challenges of the European Union

• help students understand the political, economic and social processes of the European Union 

• develop students’ comprehensive understanding of European history and the history of European integration

• introduce students to the work of EU institutions

• help students understand the cultural diversity of Europe

• help students comprehend the cultural heritage and traditions of Europe

• enable students to independently define different movements in European art history

• help students understand the relationship between identity, heritage and culture

• develop knowledge of European cultures and their influence on human behaviour

• improve students’ cultural awareness and intercultural communication skills.

Teaching methods:

• lecture

• discussion

• group work

The program is comprised of the following courses:

• Introduction to the European Union -Integration history & institutions

• EU in world politics I-II.

• Political cultures in Europe from West to East I-II.

• Current economic and social challenges of the European Union I-II.

• Sustainable development in the EU

• Intercultural sensitivity in the European Union I-II.

• International migration from a Human Rights perspective I-II.

• Politics and regional development in Central Europe I-II.

• Art history of Europe I-II.

• European folk traditions I-II.

• Cultural Heritage of Hungary

Credits offered: 6 ECTS 

Course requirements: 

• Active participation in the programs of the summer school. (Absence from class must not exceed 10%.)

• Assignment#1: Treasure hunt - Group work in pairs

• Assignment#2: Country presentation

Language of instruction: English

Language requirements: Minimum English language requirements: Independent user (B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)

Leader of the academic program: 

The classes will be taught by highly experienced academics. Students will receive official Transcripts of Records upon completion of the program. The program includes various interesting and enjoyable social programs and excursions.

Looking for more? Combine your chosen Summer School with the Debate Academy and double the knowledge, skills, and fun! 

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