London, United Kingdom

Brexit: Political Tensions, Economic Challenges

The UK’s departure from the EU is a historical event, with global political and economic implications. This course will give students a comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of Brexit: Why did British people come to this unexpected decision? Will the British economy survive the shock of leaving the EU? Could this be the beginning of the end for the European Union? In the process, students will learn about UK and EU politics, economics and political economy. The module will include team work on multimedia projects, such as a hypothetical campaign for the next country that considers leaving the EU. The module will also include visits to the European Commission’s Representation to the UK and the headquarters of the pro-EU campaign, as well as talks by representatives of organisations on both sides of the Brexit campaign, such as the European Movement and Change Britain.

The module will be updated to cover the most recent Brexit developments, as of July 2021. Any possible outcome (including extension or cancellation of Brexit, second referendum, exit with no deal, etc.) will be incorporated into the module, and used to further enhance its learning aims.

Course leader

Dr Filipa Figueira

Target group

This is a level one module (equivalent to first year undergraduate). No prior subject knowledge is required to study this module but students are expected to have a keen interest in the subject area.

Course aim

Upon successful completion of this module, students will:

Have gained a comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of Brexit
Have acquired a broad knowledge of EU and UK politics
Have acquired a broad knowledge of EU and UK economics
Have developed the ability to use methodological tools from political economy, politics and economics in their essays
Have developed and honed their writing skills, presentation skills and team work skills

Credits info

7.5 EC
7.5 ECTS / 4 US / 0.5 UCL

Fee info

GBP 2350: Students joining us for six weeks (two modules) will receive a tuition fee discount.
GBP : Students will have the option of living in UCL accommodation, close to campus in vibrant central London.