Europe is one of the most prosperous regions of the world and the site of many of the most significant developments in the world today. It continues to be important geo-politically, economically and militarily both in the world and for Australia.

Studying Europe is thus necessary for students to keep up to date with current developments across multiple academic fields. The Major in European Studies provides a means for students to acquire specialised regional knowledge of Europe while also developing the intellectual skills and qualities of mind associated with undergraduate achievement in the UNSW BA.

European Studies has been an area of research and teaching strength at UNSW for many years. The library, for instance, possesses considerable resources on the area and current staff count several internationally recognised scholars amongst their number.

The Major in European Studies offers valuable educational pathways by giving prominence to the distinctiveness and significance of European societies and cultures, and fostering a critical awareness of diversity across societies, both past and present. A core strength of this major stream is its interdisciplinary nature. Students who take the Major in European Studies will gain a valuable perspective on the interplay of differing approaches. European Studies has been shown to be a valuable vocational addition for students aiming for employment in business and government.

In general, a Major in European Studies aims to build upon the curiosity that students have of Europe and develop their understanding of the links between this region and the globalised world. Specifically, the aims and objectives of the Major in European Studies are:

1. To build students' knowledge of the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have occurred, and are occurring, in the European region;

2. To instil a critical appreciation of Europe in relation to Australia;

3. To develop the intellectual, creative and analytical skills of students;

4. To prepare Europe-literate graduates whose skills and knowledge will leave them well placed for future career success.

A student who wishes to gain a major stream in European Studies must complete 54 units of credit including 12 uoc at level 1, at least 18 uoc at level 2 and at least 18 uoc at level 3 including the capstone course.

The following courses from other subject areas can also be counted towards the European Studies major stream:

The following courses from other subject areas can also be counted towards the European Studies major stream: