Prague, Czech Republic

Understanding Europe in an Age of Uncertainty

when 2 April 2017 - 13 April 2017
language English
duration 2 weeks
credits 8 EC
fee EUR 790

The objective of the Spring University Prague 2017, “ Understanding Europe in an Age of Uncertainty”, organized by Charles University in Prague, is to provide students with a broad understanding of the most significant political and social issues in contemporary Europe.

Instead of relaxing at the “End of History” after the collapse of Eastern Bloc in 1989, Europe is facing new challenges at the beginning of the 21st century. These new challenges – including the economic and financial crisis, ageing population, complicated relations with Russia and Turkey, terrorist attacks connected with the activities of the Islamic State and most currently, the strong immigration flow – are raising concerns and leading to significant political radicalisation and social unrest. On the one hand, this challenging period raises feelings of uncertainty: Are we moving from solid to “liquid times”? What will “Europe” mean in the future? How does all this influence our everyday lives? On the other hand, this “Age of Uncertainty” is an ideal time to revise common approaches and look for new perspectives. We will, together, analyse and discuss the current development of Europe in an inspiring environment made up of students coming from countries all over the world.

The course provides an interdisciplinary approach and combines multiple learning methods, such as lectures, workshops, round-table discussions, field work, group-work and student presentations. Students will not only have the opportunity to explore a range of interesting topics and gain valuable insights into the current challenges and risks to the development of Europe, but will also have occasion to improve their research and presentation skills.

Moreover, there will be numerous free-time activities that will provide participants with a chance to enjoy the wide range of attractions that Prague has to offer.

Course leader

Charles University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Institute of International Studies (Prague, Czech Republic).
Charles University (founded in 1348) is the oldest and largest university in the country, one of the best universities in Central Europe.

Target group

The programme is intended for students who are currently enrolled in a college or university or have recently graduated. Advanced bachelor students and master students of social sciences have the best chances to be admitted.

Course aim

- to provide students with a broad understanding of the most significant recent political and social issues in Europe
- to analyse the current challenges and risks for the future of European development

Credits info

8 EC
Students will receive 8 ECTS credits for their active participation in the programme (including the final group presentations). They will be expected to prepare for the workshops (by reading the required materials in advance) and to write a seminar paper (15 - 20 pages) after the spring school ends.

Fee info

EUR 790: - Tuition (all lectures, workshops, discussions, excursions etc. as mentioned on our website)
- Cultural and social events (as mentioned on our website)
- Reading materials (an on-line version will be at your disposal after enrolling)
- Housing at the Hall of Residence
- 2 meals per day (breakfast and lunch)
- advice and help of our team during whole your stay in Prague

Scholarships

Please note that we cannot provide students of such a short time programmes with a scholarship. We support our students by looking for funding opportunities available through their university or non-governmental organizations.