The Centre for EU Studies(CEUS) is the political science pillar of the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence at Ghent University. Established in 2005, CEUS has been attracting a growing number of students and researchers. Research focuses on decision-making in the EU on the one hand and the ‘soft’ dimension of Europe’s external action (enlargement, trade policy, development cooperation and humanitarian aid) on the other. Over ten PhD projects are currently being conducted at the centre, especially in the area of EU external relations. The Centre for EU Studies also constitutes the driving force behind the one-year Master's programme in EU Studies at Ghent University. Unique in Flanders, the Master's programme familiarises students with the workings of the EU institutions and the major EU policy domains. Staff members also contribute to the public debate on EU current affairs issues.