Postgraduate Module Descriptor

POLM148: Brexit: Causes, Interpretation and Implications

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Aims

This module familiarizes you with the relationship the UK has traditionally entertained with the EU before addressing in detail the different steps of the separation process now known under ‘Brexit’. It aims at providing you with the skills and knowledge to critically engage in the ongoing debate about Brexit, to evaluate and explain its different components as well as to develop a well-founded position yourself. To do so, it will look at relevant theories which help making sense of European integration in general, and the different aspects of leaving the EU in particular, for instance the economy, immigration, the Union, sovereignty and democratic control. The module is set up in such way that it supports the development of a variety of skills – analytical, methods, team skills as well as individual writing and presentation skills. Overall, it aims to enthuse you and help you position yourself in the defining British debate and development for years to come.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate in-depth understanding of why there was a United Kingdom referendum about EU-membership in 2016;
2. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the uncertain implications of exiting the EU, both for the UK and the EU;
3. Critically engage with the legitimacy of the referendum and its interpretation by political leaders since 23 June 2016;
Discipline-Specific Skills4. Critically engage with one of the most important political ‘events’ of our time;
5. Construct rigorous arguments which show an understanding of key theories;
6. Deploy theoretical arguments and apply them to empirical case studies;
Personal and Key Skills7. Critically evaluate ideas and debates;
8. Write clearly and coherently;
9. Work independently and in collaboration with peers.
10. Communicate clearly and deliver presentations to peers.