Master of Arts in European Studies
Length of programme: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits (ECTS): 120
Educational level: Second cycle
Degree: Master of Arts in European Studies
Main field of study: European studies
Language of instruction: English
- Programme Syllabus (English translation)
- Admission requirements and selection criteria
- Lund University international website
Information about application and admission.
The Master of Arts Programme in European Studies (aka MAPES) is an interdisciplinary Master´s programme with a unique perspective on Europe.
A humanistic understanding of European politics and culture
The program specifically targets those who are interested in understanding Europe from a broader, humanist, point of view and who want to apply this perspective in careers related to European cultural and identity politics and Europe-wide communication. Our focus lies on culture, identity and communication, addressed with both theoretical sophistication and career pragmatism.
The lectures are given by qualified lecturers with exemplary research and teaching records, as well as by guest speakers from both academia and industry. Academically, the programme also benefits from the presence of the Centre for European Studies, a research-focused network across Lund University. Thus, our programme offers a solid theoretical foundation for the study of European culture, identity and politics. Furthermore, it develops students’ practical skills through a project management course and the possibility of going on an internship.
Analyzing identity, communication and values
The program provides students with theories, methods, and skills for the conceptualization and analysis of issues of particular interest in the context of contemporary European developments, such as the social and cultural construction of identities on multiple levels (local, regional, national, European), the growth of a transnational public sphere of communication, the cultural conflicts brought on by growing mobility through migration, travel, and business, and the normative interplay between values that include religious tolerance and freedom of speech.
As a student on this programme, you will learn to:
- understand notions of European culture and history, as well as collective identity dynamics,
- master the important features of European Union institutions and governance,
- focus on the European Union’s culture and communication policies and their related areas,
- develop project management and communication skills.
Programme structure
The cultural history of Europe
The program begins by presenting Europe in its historical, cultural, and normative aspects, such as the impact of Christianity, the development of the idea of the nation state, the intellectual currents of enlightenment, humanism, and individualism, the importance of civic rights, and the values of freedom of speech, tolerance, and equality.
European politics and institutions
During the second semester, the students will get a deeper understanding of the political institutions and processes at the foundation of the European project and their current function.
After a course on the various theories and methods that underpin a humanities approach to European studies, the students focus on practical skills in a project management course. During the third semester, there is the possibility to further deepen these practical skills by doing an internship.
- Read more about the programme's course on Project Management and Communication Strategies in this article (in Swedish).
The master's thesis
During the fourth and final semester, you get to complete an independent research project. You'll be responsible for formulating your own research problem, selecting an appropriate method, gathering and analysing theoretical and empirical material, and presenting your results in the form of a thesis. Although you'll work independently, you'll receive guidance and feedback from a department-appointed supervisor throughout the research process.
For more detailed information about the programme courses, click here.
Employability
MAPES proposes a practical approach to prepare students for future employment by introducing concepts and skills of project management, through a specially designed course, targeting the interaction with European institutions. Students will also have the opportunity to go on internships and thereby gain contacts that can lead to future employment.
European Studies will prepare you for a wide range of careers, not only in Sweden, but also Europe and beyond. You will leave the programme with excellent skills in analytical thinking, project management and presentation, in addition to your in-depth knowledge of European countries and EU institutions. MAPES graduates have found work in European institutions (local, regional and supranational), in private companies, as well as in think-tanks. Possible career opportunities include project management in institutions dealing with European culture and communication, analysis and consultancy in publishing, translation and media businesses directed to a European audience and dealing with cross-cultural communication. Some of our graduates choose an academic career path by pursuing doctoral studies.
