Welcome at the SALZBURG CENTRE OF EUROPEAN UNION STUDIES
With roots dating back to 2005, the Salzburg Centre of European Union Studies (SCEUS) has evolved into a leading interdisciplinary centre for research and teaching in the field of European integration. Nowadays, it acts as one of three focus areas of the University of Salzburg. SCEUS has been a Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence co-financed by the European Commission on two occasions (2008-2011; 2023-2026).
SCEUS focuses its research on major European challenges of European integration, examining its economic, legal, and political evolutions and future trajectory, primarily within the framework of the European Union. Our team is interested in explaining crises related to European and national identity and the increasing contestation of the EU’s fundamental principles, such as democracy, rule of law, and market economy. We also aim to understand the role and position of the EU in an increasingly unstable global environment, addressing issues like the decline of multilateralism, the rise of populism and authoritarianism, conflicts at its borders, and the trade-off between economic and ecological stability. Our research is equally interested in the impact of the European integration process on member states and their institutions (for instance, in the economic domain).
With its wide range of research fields, SCEUS offers a unique environment for renowned scholars from various disciplines – including economics, law, history, political science, and psychology – to collaborate in both research and teaching. In this interdisciplinary framework, SCEUS is committed to educating new generations of researchers in an international atmosphere that fosters exchange across national and disciplinary boundaries and challenges rigid academic traditions.
SCEUS offers an interdisciplinary Master programme in ‘European Union Studies’. Taught in English, it attracts Austrian and international students who seek profound theoretical and practical knowledge of European Union institutions, policies, decision-making procedures, politics, economics, and law. Emphasising an interdisciplinary approach, this unique programme combines courses from multiple academic fields. Study trips and specialised practical seminars provide direct insights into the work of EU institutions and opportunities to meet experts and practitioners. The possibility to acquire a double degree at one of our partner universities in Rome and Olomouc further enhances the programme’s appeal.
SCEUS also counts with two doctoral colleges, which provide a unique opportunity to young researchers to conduct research on European Union studies.
The numerous opportunities offered by the Centre make it a focal point for research and teaching on issues of European integration, holding a unique position in Austria, Europe, and beyond.
Directors
Academic Director: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Ariadna Ripoll Servent
Deputy Directors: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Diane Fromage; Assoz.-Prof. MMag. Dr. Paul Hofmarcher
Executive Director: Mag. Roman Puff
The Team of SCEUS comprises renowned scholars and teachers from different departments of the University of Salzburg.