The EU is a major influence on public policy across all its member states and in global politics more broadly. It also remains a central issue within UK politics and policy-making following the Brexit decision in June 2016. Students are equipped with the knowledge, transferable skills and research experience necessary to analyse the complex challenges facing Europe's policymakers today. The programme includes a funded study trip to Brussels. The programme provides in-depth knowledge of the EU’s institutions, politics and policies. It covers legislative, executive, and judicial politics; introduces EU law-making and lobbying; and addresses key contemporary questions, such as Europe’s global role, democratic legitimacy, the euro crisis and the EU’s impact on member states. Students choose from a wide range of options in public policy, international politics and comparative government. The department acts as a bridge between the research community and policymakers in Brussels and Britain, and the programme’s funded study trip to Brussels offers students first-hand insights into the EU’s institutions as well as networking opportunities. Most students choose the MSc as the foundation for a career in European affairs in the EU's institutions; in central, regional or local government; in NGOs, business, lobby groups and public affairs consultancies.