You will gain an essential understanding of the politics and history of European countries and the European Union. Your final year will enable you to specialise in chosen social, economic and political aspects of European integration and in national responses to European developments. Your year abroad will enable you to develop new perspectives on the study of Europe, and accelerate your proficiency in your chosen language. The School has a dedicated and experienced Placements Officer who will work with you individually to help you find a suitable placement. Your studies will revolve around lectures, classes and small group sessions, and individual and group projects.
Assessment is through a combination of oral and written exams, research projects and coursework.
The entry for Modern Languages gives details of facilities and IT, career prospects and further information relevant to the year abroad. My year abroad was spent working full-time as an Assistant to Glenys Kinnock MEP in her Brussels office of the European Parliament. In addition to organising her busy and conflicting schedule, setting up meetings and interviews, I managed press enquiries and handled large numbers of telephone and written policy enquiries. I drafted numerous letters each week and undertook constituency casework, which required research and liaison with other EU and International organisations, Embassies and Non-Governmental Organisations, using my French language skills in the process. I really enjoyed my placement year - I had an amazing opportunity to be part of the team of a high profile MEP and work in the Parliament where decisions are made which affect millions of European citizens.