The Master's programme offers students a thorough understanding of the conditions and developments that have affected and still affect the EU and the European integration process. The study of relevant scholarly theory and method is an important element in the programme.

The department strongly recommends that the master students spend a period of study abroad during the programme. The department will therefore arrange for exchange agreements with universities in France, Germany and the United Kingdom. This will enable the students to develop their proficiency in the foreign language that they have chosen to study within the programme. Furthermore, this will provide students with the opportunity to take courses within European Studies at our collaborating universities covering subject areas such as history, politics and EU legislation. It is also possible to follow courses which deal with the historical, cultural or linguistic aspects of the chosen foreign language.

The Master's thesis (45 ECTS) is preferably to be written in the foreign language that has been chosen for study. The thesis consists of an independent written piece of scholarly work, by means of which the student develops his or her analytical research skills in examining a significant body of written work and in disseminating the results of this examination.

Students who began their course of study in the autumn of 2006 will submit their Master's thesis in the spring term of 2008. Possible topics include either the United Kingdom's, France’s or Germany’s connection and contribution to EU/Europe. In addition the programme may include the study of problems concerning other countries/regions within the EU and Europe, as well as Europe’s relation to the world in general. Furthermore, the Master’s thesis may deal with topics of a linguistic nature or those connected to cultural areas.

The study is suited for students who want the opportunity to obtain a knowledge of Europe, the EU and the European integration process in combination with a foreign language study (either English, French or German).

European Studies and Foreign Languages at NTNU
European Studies and Foreign Languages is a unique Master's programme precisely because of its combination of courses connected to both European studies and linguistics. Language skills are highly appreciated in international work, and knowledge of another country's language, culture, history and fabric of society will make the job-seeker attractive to Norwegian and European companies and organizations.