Politics

The Transformation of Contemporary Europe

Module code: L2092
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay, Coursework

On this module, you’ll examine the major economic and geopolitical transformations in Europe since the end of the Second World War.

You’ll explore key developments, including:

  • the Cold War’s division of Europe into Eastern and Western blocs with contrasting political and economic systems
  • the influence of the Cold War on European politics and economics up to the collapse of Soviet communism in 1989-91
  • the post-Cold War order, including the European Union's enlargement to former communist countries
  • the economic transition and political democratisation of these countries, assessing the extent of convergence between models
  • security issues in Europe in the post-Cold War era.

Module learning outcomes

  • To have developed a critical approach to interpreting empirical material relating to the transformation of contemporary Europe
  • Have the capacity to synthesise materials from a range of sources.
  • Have a basic understanding of different academic approaches and priorities and integrate them into an effective interdisciplinary view.