Immerse yourself in the politics, policy and social evolution of Europe and the United States. You’ll study at Bath, as well as in Europe and the United States.
This course is part of the Euromasters Consortium, which gives you the chance to live and learn in different countries and enjoy a truly international degree. You’ll combine studying at our Bath campus with time at prestigious universities in Europe and the United States.
You can also study this course with a European-only track, allowing you to experience Bath and two other European universities.
During your academic learning, you’ll focus on contemporary politics, culture and society in Europe and North America, and the roles of both regions in the wider world. You’ll learn about:
- European Union (EU) institutions and policymaking
- the development and maintenance of US/EU relations
- European integration and Euroscepticism
- societal modernisation and democratisation in different countries
- the role and responsibilities of European nations and the United States in geopolitics and international relations
- emerging challenges facing European nations and the United States
As well as these fundamental topics, you’ll be able to explore wider global issues, such as security, foreign policy, international relations, gender politics, cyberspace politics, immigration, and economic disparities.
If you aspire to work in international institutions, or for private sector organisations with a presence in Europe and/or North America, this course will help you to develop the skills and experience to succeed.
You can find out more on the dedicated Euromasters website, which contains extensive information about the course and the Consortium, as well as guidance on applying.
One course, five universities, your own journey
Living and studying in other countries is a fundamental part of this course. With the option to spend time in the UK, the United States, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, you’ll develop your understanding of Europe and North America — both academically and culturally.
You’ll encounter different approaches to learning and teaching, and experience how key questions and challenges are understood in different nations and regions. This will all be done alongside students and academics from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, allowing you to experience different opinions and perspectives.
This combination will help you to enhance your intercultural awareness, improve your language skills, and learn about different ways of life.
Language of instruction and locations
You may study at up to three Euromasters Consortium sites (this will include Bath and the University of North Carolina). Each offers its own academic expertise, intellectual traditions and continental perspectives.
You can choose from the following institutions.
Most units will be taught in English across each institution, so you don't need to be speak the languages of instruction in your chosen countries of study.
However, having a good level of fluency will give you a more immersive experience and allow you to select from a wider choice of units, as some will only be taught in other languages.
Each partner institution will support you to find accommodation and will offer a range of services including careers advice, placement resources and pastoral care. A representative from the institution(s) you choose will work with you ahead of your semester(s) to support your preparation.
Some countries may require a form of language certification as part of your student visa application. We advise that you check this ahead of time.
Please note: You must study at an approved partner institutions for at least one semester as part of this course. You cannot complete the whole course at Bath.
How the course works
Each ‘module’ takes place across a semester. There are four semesters in total.
Core Module 1: All students start together at the University of Bath. You’ll study units that explore key debates in contemporary European politics and develop core political and social science research skills.
Specialist Module 1: All students will move on to the University of North Carolina for this module. You’ll study units that cover historic and contemporary topics in United States politics and culture, as well as the nation’s relationship with Europe and other major global countries and regions.
Specialist Module 2: You’ll choose to spend time at one of our partner universities or return to the University of Bath. While at your chosen institution, you’ll study a selection of units offered. This means you can experience up to three different universities during this course.
Thesis Module: During the last phase of the course, you’ll complete your dissertation. You can do this at the University of Bath, or the site you studied at during Specialist Module 2.
Gain important career skills
As part of the Department of Politics, Languages & International Studies, you’ll work with a research-active community.
Our staff have expertise in European and American politics and international studies, as well as areas like international security, terrorism, foreign policy, international relations, gender politics, cyberspace politics, and the international political economy. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching to enhance your learning experience.
You’ll have the opportunity to gain:
- a deep knowledge of contemporary European politics, society, and culture
- an enhanced level of intercultural awareness, which is important for working in a range of international jobs
- an increased professional network, including leading academic staff and researchers from your time studying at Bath
- practical and transferable skills for a range of careers in the UK, continental Europe, North America and further afield
Graduate prospects
Studying this course will prepare you for a range of careers that require an understanding of different political systems, institutional cultures and ways of working.
You’ll gain an excellent grounding for working in international organisations, government agencies, multinational corporations, NGOs, and public bodies.
Graduates from our MA Contemporary European Studies (Politics, Policy and Society & Transatlantic Track) courses have gone on to successful careers in a wide range of organisations, including:
- Danish EU Research Liaison Officer in Brussels, Belgium
- Head of External Affairs, Northwest at Google, USA
- Programme Officer EU Policies at the European Commission in Brussels, Belgium
- United Nations Postgraduate Fellowship, New York
- Parliamentary Assistant for German MP in Bundestag, Berlin
- Press Assistant in the European Parliament, Spain
- Parliamentary Assistant for a Green MEP in the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium
Watch our webinar about this course