Arts, Design & Architecture

European studies

People touring in gondolas under the famous baroque style Bridge of Sighs at Venice city, Italy.

Discover Europe’s rich history & its complex present

Studying European studies at UNSW exposes you to the rich history and dynamics of contemporary Europe. As an interdisciplinary area of study and research, you’ll focus on European politics, societies and cultures of the past and present. You’ll cover topics such as concepts of Europe, Europe in the Age of Catastrophe, the European world 1500 – 1900, confronting the past in contemporary Europe, and contemporary Europe in crisis.

Our staff are experts on a range of European countries and regions spanning the entire continent, from Britain to Russia and the Mediterranean to Northern Europe. We specialise in diverse fields, including intellectual history, memory studies, religion, the history of minorities and transnational histories.

Enhance your study with a European language  

European studies at UNSW brings together the perspectives and approaches of disciplines such as history, philosophy, politics and international relations. We encourage you to combine this study with a European language to further expand the skillset and knowledge you’ll bring to future roles. We offer courses at various levels in French, German, Greek, Italian and Spanish.

Prepare yourself for the global job market  

European studies will prepare you for intellectual and professional engagement and success on a global scale. Our graduates pursue careers in politics and diplomacy, EU institutions, Australian Federal Government, international business, NGOs, media, trade, teaching and research.

Forge important links domestically & internationally 

Our staff are involved in research collaboration with numerous organisations and universities in Europe. We also actively cooperate with Australian-based organisations promoting the study of European languages and culture, including the Goethe Institute, the Instituto Cervantes, Alliance Française and the German Academic Exchange Service. 

You’ll have the opportunity for international exchange in over 32 countries, including Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Switzerland and the UK. You may also be eligible to apply for external programs such as Encounter Europe, an intensive European studies course held in Germany and administered by the German Academic Exchange Service.

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