The Europa Master: an overview
The trinational Master in European Studies (EU law and EU politics), also known as Europa Master, lasts two years (120 credits) and is composed of four semesters of 30 credits each.
The first semester takes place at the Institute of Political Science of the University of Opole (Poland), the second semester at the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany, and the third semester at the Law Faculty of the University of Burgundy in Dijon (France). The final semester is intended for writing the MA thesis and doing an internship, therefore, the students choose where they live!
First semester – Opole, Poland
October – February
The first semester at the University of Opole provides an introduction to European Studies and Political Science. The focus lies on the cultural and social aspects of European integration from the Central and Eastern European countries’ point of view. The students can make a choice between two modules that slightly change every year. For example, previous students could choose a course on post-communist societies in Europe.
The teaching language is English. In addition, language classes in Polish, German and French are part of the curriculum (throughout all semesters of the master).
How do the courses look like?
The teaching method combines lectures and debates. Students are generally required to give a presentation for each course. The evaluations consist of continuous and end-of-term written exams as well as term papers.
Where to live?
The University recommends (as we do) to live in the student dorms that are rather cheap and close to the campus. Usually, the Europa Master students have rooms in the same dorm in shared flats, which is a great way to get to know each other.
However, you can also opt to live in a private flat, although it is more difficult to find one if you not a Polish speaker. If you wish to do so, inform the teachers in Opole as they can introduce you to a Polish student to help you. Of course, we also can help, just write to us!
Tips
Opole is a cosy small city that has beautiful green areas, nice bars and restaurants, just explore it! To go partying, nice areas are the Rynek (main market square) and Maly Rynek (small market square). They are located in the city centre and two squares surrounded by bars frequented by locals and foreigners.
It is highly recommended to go to the Foreign Languages Library which organises many events.
Finally, make use of the opportunity to travel around Poland. Opole is not far away from the very beautiful cities of Wroclaw, Krakow, Warsaw and others, and very well connected by direct trains. As a student under the age of 26, you benefit from a 50% discount on all train tickets.
Second semester – Mainz, Germany
April – August
The master continues in Mainz, and the German experience is very different from the Polish one! The courses there are all related to political science and theories of European integration, EU decision-making etc. At the end of the semester, you will participate in a simulation of the European Union decision-making process, the Model European Union Mainz (MEUM).
The majority of the course topics and options change every year. You can choose only classes in English, but if you speak German you also have the option to pick classes in German (which also gives you more choice).
How do the courses look like?
There are few lectures in Mainz, most courses are seminars. Students are often given academic articles to read before every class and are expected to be prepared for debating and doing presentations. Some courses end with exams, but term papers are more common. Be aware that a lot of focus is put on methodology; you are expected to show what you have learned through the classes in your papers.
Where to live?
There are several student dorms with varying quality standards and rents. Pay attention to the house rules and the clauses in your contract, as the University is rather strict in that respect – especially if you want to get your deposit back!
The language is not a problem if you are looking for a flat and do not speak German, many Europa Master’ students have opted for this option and were happy with it, too. In Germany, many students live in shared flats and rooms are often available for one semester only (which is called Zwischenmiete).
Tips
Mainz is another cosy city, located in a green and beautiful wine region. Explore both, city and region; there are plenty of small charming villages worth visiting nearby.
The University in Mainz offers a vivid campus life; many things/events are going on there! There are restaurants, bars and several dorms with their own bars where parties take place.
Third semester – Dijon, France
September – January
The French semester is dedicated to EU law and it is fully taught in French! Even if it can be challenging to cope with the law terminology in French, teachers are aware of this and you will be offered thematical French language classes if you are a non-native speaker.
Along with mandatory courses, you will be able to choose between two modules, including subjects such as EU environmental law, EU cohesion policy etc.
How do the courses look like?
Be prepared for a mix of lectures in large auditorium rooms and in small classrooms where there are only Europa Master students and where the lessons are more participative. Exams include both written and oral exams as well as term papers.
Where to live?
Most of the Europa Master' students choose to live in the university dorms, which are located on the campus. Be aware that the quality standards and comfort in the dorms can vary broadly. It is also possible to get a private flat in the city centre.
Tips
Study hard and attend the courses; teachers are there to help you as they are aware that the French language can be a challenge for some students.
Dijon has an outstanding, large historical city centre to discover. Like Mainz, Dijon lies in a wine region with lots of interesting places around (for example Beaune, a wine city surrounded by vineyards and very close to Dijon).
Fourth semester – you choose!