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2013/2014  KAN-CLM-LDU  The modern geopolitical concepts of Euro-Atlantic integration

English Title
The modern geopolitical concepts of Euro-Atlantic integration

Course information

Language English
Exam ECTS 7.5 ECTS
Type Elective
Level Full Degree Master
Duration One Semester
Course period Autumn
Changes in schedule may occur.
Monday 9.50-11.30, week 36-41,43-48.
Time Table Please see course schedule at e-Campus
Min. participants 30
Study board
Study Board for MA in International Business Communication
Course coordinator
  • Katrine Ravn Jørgensen - Department of International Business Communication (IBC)
  • Lizaveta Dubinka-Hushcha - Department of International Business Communication (IBC)
Main academic disciplines
  • Globalization, International Business, markets and studies
  • International Politics
  • Political Science
  • Political leadership, public management and international politics
Last updated on 18-03-2013
Learning objectives
By completion of the course, the students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate the knowledge of geopolitics, its main categories and assumptions;
  • Recognize and define major characteristics of various geopolitical schools and their methodologies;
  • Analyze the expansion of Euro-Atlantic institutions with the help of modern geopolitical models and theories;
  • Reflect on the changes in the post-bipolar international system using the modern geopolitical frameworks;
  • Discuss the possibilities and limitations of Euro-Atlantic integration in the future based on the geopolitical constellation of powers;
  • Critically evaluate existing theories of geopolitics as to their ability to explain the present integration processes in Europe and the world
Prerequisites for registering for the exam
Compulsory assignments (assessed approved/not approved)
taking part in a group presentation in class; each student should participate in one presentation

Requirements about active class participation (assessed approved/not approved)
1) group presentation
2) attendance of min. 80% of classes
3) contribution into class discussions
Examination
The modern geopolitical concepts of Euro-Atlantic integration:
Examination form Home assignment - written product
Individual or group exam Individual
Size of written product Max. 10 pages
Assignment type Project
Duration Written product to be submitted on specified date and time.
Grading scale 7-step scale
Examiner(s) One internal examiner
Exam period December/January
Make-up exam/re-exam
Same examination form as the ordinary exam
Course content and structure
The course considers the post-bipolar enlargement of EU and NATO as interrelated processes seen in a power-constellation perspective. The modern geopolitical theories help to explain the centrifugal as well as centripetal forces behind the political, economic and military integration in Europe in the end of the XXth-beginning of the XXIst century. The geopolitical view of international relations considers longer-term civilizational principles underlying convergence as well as separation of ethnic groups, cultures and nations. Since its inception, the science of geopolitics has not been confined to geography, military and political power, but has always included a strong cultural and civilizational component. In the era of globalization, geopolitics acquired a wider analytical framework, which came to include geoeconomics and geostrategy. The unifying element of these concepts is the focus on location as a force impacting the foreign policy of a state and its position in world affairs. The geopolitical analysis helps to suggest possible scenarios for the development of international system in the future.
The course combines a theoretical perspective with its projection on the empirical evidence and therefore offers an opportunity to explore in-depth the individual states' attitudes towards Euro-Atlantic integration. 
Teaching methods
The course will be a combination of lectures and student presentations, leading to open discussions. Students are expected to study the relevant reading material before each class.
Expected literature
This course will be based on the book "Geopolitics of Euro-Atlantic Integration" by A. Wivel, H. Mouritzen et al. In addition, a selection of articles will be uploaded on Learn prior to each session.
Last updated on 18-03-2013