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European Culture and Economy, shortened as ECUE, is an interdisciplinary postgraduate program that is distinct from European Studies. Both focus on European politics and developments. After receiving the academic degree Master of Arts, graduates of ECUE may engage in various business fields, however, especially EU-related professions are targeted.
Contents
History
The Ruhr University Bochum in Germany is currently the only university to offer European Culture and Economy as a path of study. It is a small branch, approximately 40-50 students are accepted each year. It was first introduced in the winter term of 1999/2000 and has since become an established Mastersprogramme. Initially, ECUE was a way of giving arts scholars a fundamental understanding of economics, politics and intercultural competences. In its early stages, the program was supported financially by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) as well as German Rectors' Conference (HRK). In 2007, its level of quality was confirmed by ACQUIN, a German Quality Assurance Institute. Students of ECUE are intended to qualify as specialized generalist and be prepared for careers in international companies and institutions. The expected duration of study is four terms.
Curriculum
The curriculum puts an emphasis on examining the European area from an economic, cultural, political and sociological perspective. During Colloquia and an obligatory excursion (to EU-relevant cities), the interrelations of the disciplines are linked and investigated. Additionally, the students' intercultural competences and research methods are trained.
Seminars of the following disciplines are included in the program:
The interdisciplinary and intercultural approach teaches students to analyze European topics from a cultural, economical and political angle. Students are not expected to become experts in every single discipline. Instead, they develop the important skills of evaluating problems from many different angles and perspectives, quickly assessing new situations and deal with cultural self- and public images.
Next to interdisciplinary, ECUE stresses international relations. At least 50% of the available places are assigned to foreign students. So far, students of 30 different nations (Africa, U.S.A., Asia, many European countries) were able to successfully complete the program.
Admission
To be granted admission to the program, a very good to excellent Bachelor's degree is required. Furthermore, students must possess a good proficiency in the teaching languages, English and German, as well as a third foreign language and provide letters of recommendation from university professors. Further, a term abroad in addition to an internship are obligatory requirements which can also be acquired during the duration of the program.