Course Catalogue

West European Relations with Central and East Europe from Détente to EU SPS4008

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Social and Political Sciences
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course covers the nature and development of West European relations with Central and East European (CEE) countries. It begins with the onset of Détente in the 1960s to the collapse of Socialist regimes in 1989 and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. It then progresses to the early 2000s when CEE countries established closer ties with Western European nations, ultimately leading to their integration in the European Union. The end of the course will focus on tensions within the EU involving CEE countries.

Timetable

Lectures: one hour per week

Seminars: one hour per week

 

Please note this course does not run every session. For further information please check the ESH Moodle page.

Requirements of Entry

Enrolment in an MA (SocSci) or MA (Arts) Honours Programme

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

Source report (40%) of 1,500 words

Essay (60%) of 3,000 words

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to provide an understanding of the nature and development of relations between West European and CEE countries since the 1960s. Students will also develop an understanding of what history can tell us about the contemporary tensions within the EU involving CEE countries.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Discuss the nature and development of West European relations with Central and East European countries.

■ Evaluate the key factors that led to West, Central and East European integration.

■ Show a critical understanding of tensions within the EU, particularly in relation to Central and East European countries.

■ Demonstrate an ability to use primary sources to analyze relations between West European and Central and East European countries.

■ Develop well-reasoned and critically aware arguments, supported by the literature, in relation to West European relations with Central and East European countries.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions