Module Overview

You will take four optional modules, at least two of which must be chosen from the European Law module list below. You may choose to study up to two modules from other subject areas within the Law postgraduate portfolio (see the list under the LLM Law information). Some modules may not be offered if numbers are too low. In addition you will complete a dissertation in a topic related to European law.

EC Employment Law and Social Policy

This module considers how the free movement of peoples among EU states has led to the harmonisation of the protection of employment rights between member states. This has created a fascinating network of rules and principles. The module will involve analysis and discussion of general principles and policy objectives of the resulting EU-wide laws.

EC Environmental Policy and Law

This module will examine the increasing significance of European law to the regulation of pollution within the United Kingdom. It will address the EU’s impact on national environmental protection and undertake a critical analysis of the developing principles of European environmental law, such as sustainable development and the ‘Polluter Pays’ principle.

EU Citizenship Forging a Common European Identity

This module aims to provide a kaleidoscope of the legal aspects of EU citizenship. It will explore the role of national citizenship and the significance of individual membership of the EU. Questions of evolving rights and duties, social policy, discrimination and equal treatment, political integration, free movement and migration of thirdcountry nationals will also be covered.

EU Private International Law

This module considers the development of common rules of private international law, an important element of judicial cooperation in civil matters within Europe. Private international law supports the Union’s key objectives of the free movement of goods, services and persons. It will examine and evaluate relevant legislation and consider the necessity for further legislation.

European Banking Law

This module provides an insight into the workings of the European banking market, the laws which regulate the risks taken by European financial institutions and the principles and policies underlying these laws. It will also examine how the law attempts to halt and prevent potential abuses by money launderers and financers of terrorism.

European Human Rights Law and the ‘Right to Life’

This module investigates the political and legal processes relevant to the ‘right to life’ within European human rights. The standards provided by Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights will be analysed with regards to its interpretation and implementation by bodies including the Council of Europe and the European Union.

European Public Law

This module addresses the law relating to the function and power of the institutions of the European Union and debates about the development of a European constitution. It will consider key principles such as subsidiarity, proportionality and the accountability of EU institutions. Students will develop an understanding of how Europe works and how it may develop in the future.

European Security Law

This module addresses the internal legal problems of common security action and analyses the constitutional framework of the European Union. It includes the relationship between security law and the wider issues of EU external relations and the changes agreed in the Lisbon Treaty. It will also take a closer look at the EU’s response to international terrorism.

Law and Policy of EC External Trade

This module will examine Europe’s key role in the development of international discussions about global trade. Disputes between Europe and states outside the European Union are resolved by a series of complicated trade agreements. Students will be provided with a sound introduction to the EU law governing trade and international economics