This module involves the application of both microeconomic and macroeconomic theories to policy issues that are relevant to the EU and the Eurozone. These issues include trade, agricultural policy, monetary issues, competition policy and regional policy. All these areas will be addressed using economic data and case studies, and there is a strong emphasis on understanding current affairs. The final goal is to equip students with the tools and knowledge to make a reasoned assessment of whether (at least from an economic point of view) the EU is doing a good job, and whether there is room for improvement in the policy outcomes of the EU.

On completion of this module the student should be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of the principal features of the economics of the European Union;
• describe and evaluate economic policies that are implemented at the EU level;
• identify and recognise the role and functioning of the major economic institutions.