About the programme

It is designed for highly-motivated, multi-lingual students who seek to analyse political, social and economic dynamics as the next generation of European decision-makers. The programme is taught in the three working languages of the European institutions (English, French and German).

Students from all over the world gain a deep understanding of how EU institutions, policies and actors shape our world through case studies, study trips and discussing with field experts.

Our partners:

University of Kent, Canterbury

Overview of the Academic Year

October to December in Nice (France)
Classes on the basics of all the five modules, international conferences, and seminars concerning current European and international affairs;
Simulation, Mid-term exams.

January to March: Canterbury (United Kingdom)
In partnership with the University of Kent in Canterbury, students choose two courses from the university’s School of Politics and International Relations curriculum.
A one-week study trip to the European institutions and international organisations in Brussels, Luxembourg, Strasbourg.

April to July: Berlin (Germany)
Students have the opportunity to engage with European integration experts, gain insight into Berlin’s political scene, and take courses relating to contemporary problems in international relations and European politics. There are additional courses in German for the students who choose the trilingual option.
Finalising research work, written exams, defence of the thesis, final oral exams, Graduation ceremony.

Programme structure & learning outcomes

Teaching modules

Five basic modules form the framework of teaching and research at CIFE. International guest lecturers, experts from various European and international organisations, as well as researchers from partner institutions contribute to these modules.

1. European Integration and Governance
2. EU Policies and Flagship Initiatives
3. EU Neighbourhood and External Relations
4. The European Economy and Globalisation
5. Professional Skills Workshops

Teaching methods

The programme offers problem-focused learning at the crossroads of theory and practice. Students gain a strong academic background and are prepared for the job market through a variety of trainings in professional and practical skills.