European Union law
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This module explores European Union law (EU law) by focusing on differing themes. It teaches the differing topics from a European perspective rather than from a UK perspective which makes this module different to other EU law courses. This way, you'll be given a more in-depth view of EU law. 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 be given 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. The focus is law at the European Union level looking at the workings of the EU Institutions, Court and its jurisprudence.
Please note that some details of the module may require modification in order to accurately reflect the impact of the emergent national and transnational changes affecting governance of the EU.
What you will study
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 about EU external relations.
You will learn
After studying this module you should be able to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the:
- concepts, rules and principles of European Union law
- social, political, economic and historic dimensions of European Union law
You should also be able to identify, apply and critically analyse the:
- principles of European Union law
- different legal and policy arguments in relation to European Union law as articulated in public discourse, academic debate, case law and legal scholarship
Entry requirements
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.
If you are studying this module towards the Academic degree or Foundations of Legal Knowledge route as part of the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (LLB) (R81) or Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (graduate entry) (LLB) (R82), then you will need to have studied or be studying on a presentation of Trusts law (W311) before enrolling on W330.
What's included
You’ll be provided with access to textbook and a module website, which includes:
- a week-by-week study planner
- a module guide
- audio and video content
- assessment guide
- online tutorials and tutor group forums.
Computing requirements
- Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer. It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
- Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
- Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
- Operating systems – Windows 11 or latest supported macOS. Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10 as of 14 October 2025.
- Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
- Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended. Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.