Description
The Program in European Studies with the Leuven Institute offers students an internship in Brussels with the European Parliament or Commission as well as up to five academic courses in Europe's culture, economics, politics, history, and law. While knowledge of French or Dutch is helpful to get around in Belgium, it is not required for the internship or coursework.
Approximately 15 miles from Brussels, Leuven is the seat of one of the world's oldest Catholic universities, dating back to the 15th century. The older part of town, where the Irish College campus lies, is lined with old stone buildings and dozens of cafés. St. Peter's Cathedral, surrounded by the Old Square, acts as the town's center and provides a quaint, old European atmosphere.
Accomodations
Students reside in dormitories provided by the Irish College in Leuven. The accommodations are quite large and spacious, each comprising three floors. Students generally share triplex rooms with three to four students per room.
Credits
In addition to the internship, students may take up to four additional courses (3 credits each), for a total of 15 credits. Students usually attend classes on Mondays and Thursdays, while completing their internship on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Course options include
- European Parliamentary Internship (required)
- History and Development of the European Union
- European Union Law
- Economics of European Integration
- European Culture
- Comparative European Politics