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Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate European Union Law module
This module explores different themes of European Union law (EU law) from a European perspective rather than from a UK perspective to give an in-depth view of EU law, which makes this module different to other courses. The organisation around themes and use of topical context aims to allow you to engage in a lively discussion with your fellow students and the module team right from the beginning. You'll have various opportunities to apply and critically evaluate the law with and without reference to the UK's legal system. It will also help you develop further academic and professional skills.
This module is presented in three blocks, each of which has three units.
Block 1: Introduction to the framework

This block introduces the historic background of the European Union, as well as the institutions, principles and the law-making processes. The first unit introduces the module and the law, supports your learning journey of EU law as a glossary, and will, therefore, be unique as it's structured according to key terms without necessarily having an overarching topical thread running through it.
Block 2: Free movement rules and principles

This block adds to the aspects of EU law covered in the first block by introducing the internal market and exploring citizenship as well as the EU’s approach towards discrimination. You'll analyse the free movement provisions in detail as well as exploring the EU's approach to policy making. While looking at the free movement of workers, the concept of EU citizenship will also be explored.
Block 3: The reach of EU policies and law

This block engages with topical discussions on EU non-discrimination law and competition law. You'll learn more about Brexit and EU external relations.
After studying this module you should be able to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the:
You should also be able to identify, apply and critically analyse the:
As this module is one of the foundations of legal knowledge, it forms an integral part of the academic stage of legal training.
If you intend to study this module as part of the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), and hope to enter the legal profession, you should read our Careers in Law information. There are different entry requirements into the legal professions in England and Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet these requirements.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
The assessment points are spread throughout the module to give plenty of opportunity to prepare and reflect on your progress and achievements. The units are designed to support your learning through consolidation and reflection. This will enable you to assess your understanding and knowledge to improve your overall learning experience.
You will have digital access via Law Trove to EU Law: Text, Cases, and Materials (UK Version) 8th edition, (Craig, P. and de Búrca, G.) and a module website, which includes:
W330 is an option module in our:
European Union law starts once a year – in October.
This page describes the module that will start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2030.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
In order to study this module, you must have successfully completed 60 credits of study at Stage 2. As this Stage 3 law module includes some complex legal ideas, we highly recommend that you have successfully completed at least 60 credits of law at Stage 2.
Before enrolling on W330, if you are studying this module towards the:
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying W330 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
StartEndRegister byEngland fee
03 Oct 202631 Mar 202710 Sep 2026£2,044
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Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
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