Introduction to European Union Law
Module summary
This module is designed as an introduction to European Union law. The approach taken will emphasise the sources of EU law, and the key concepts and principles underpinning the continuing evolution of EU law in general. Institutional, constitutional and substantive elements of EU law will be outlined, with a particular focus on the application of legal principles to actual and hypothetical situations in practice.
Through the use of primary sources, secondary literature and case studies we will explore the ways in which EU law has developed and, in particular, explore the role played by different EU and national actors in that process. The module will also demonstrate the relevance and effects of EU law in a range of practical situations and contexts.
Session titles
- Introducing the European Union: history and evolution
- The sources of EU law: competence and hierarchy
- EU institutions I: overview of functions
- EU institutions II: jurisdiction of the Court of Justice
- Principles of EU constitutionalism I: primacy and direct effect
- Principles EU constitutionalism II: fundamental rights
- The framework of free movement law: overview of key principles
- Free movement law I: free movement of goods
- Free movement law II: capital, services and establishment
- Free movement law III: persons and EU citizenship
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
- Appreciate the distinctive legal structure of the European Union;
- Understand both the scope and limitations of EU legal competence;
- Analyse and evaluate the substantive development of EU law, from the perspective of both the EU and national legal orders.
Assessment
5000-word essay (60%); assessed course work (20%); participation in online activity (20%).
