Prospectus

nl en

The Economics of the European Union

Course
2023-2024

Admission requirements

Required course(s):

  • Principles of Economics

The following courses are recommended, though not required:

  • Microeconomics

  • Macroeconomics

  • International Economics

  • Decision-making Processes

Description

This course introduces students to the main economic aspects of the European Union (EU). The EU has achieved deep integration of the economies of its member states and its ambition is to continue this integration. The objective of the course is to provide an insight in the process of EU integration and its economic impact on individuals, companies and regions. In addition, we will discuss major events such as Brexit and COVID-19.

Although we pay attention to the historical background and the politics of EU decision-making, it is an applied economics course. Students should therefore refresh their knowledge of micro- and macroeconomic principles.

At the end of this course, the student will have an excellent understanding of the micro- and macroeconomic aspects of the EU and its economic policies.

Course Objectives

  • Students will be able to recognize and define important current issues and challenges in the major areas of European economic Integration.

  • Students will be able to understand the economic and political logic behind EU integration.

  • Students will be able to understand the importance of the EU for the business environment in which companies operate.

  • Students will be able to use graphs and economic reasoning to analyze the process of economic integration in the EU.

Timetable

Timetables for courses offered at Leiden University College in 2023-2024 will be published on this page of the e-Prospectus.

Mode of instruction

In each class we will cover some material of the book that you are expected to read in advance. The instructor will present the economic theory (usually on the whiteboard) and link the theory to current events. There is ample room for class discussion; the more the better!

Assessment Method

  • Final exam, 40%

  • Midterm exam, 19%

  • Written assignment, 15%

  • Presentation of written assignment, 15%

  • Class participation, 11%

Reading list

  • Richard Baldwin and Charles Wyplosz, The Economics of European Integration (6th edition), McGrawHill Education, 2019.

Registration

Courses offered at Leiden University College (LUC) are usually only open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Leiden University students who participate in one of the university’s Honours tracks or programmes may register for one LUC course, if availability permits. Registration is coordinated by the Education Coordinator, course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.

Contact

Dr. Philippe van Gruisen, p.van.gruisen@law.leidenuniv.nl

Remarks

-