Law

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Professional Development in Practice

  The world's most pressing challenges don't fit neatly into one subject or discipline. This module puts you at the heart of tackling them.
  
  Working alongside academics, fellow students and external partners, you'll engage in projects that develop critical, creative and transferable skills needed to address real-world issues. You'll learn to analyse problems, consider multiple perspectives and apply your knowledge beyond your subject area.
  
  Through collaboration and reflection, you'll deepen your understanding of yourself, your subject and the wider contexts in which you will live and work.
  
  The second of three Supportive Challenge modules running throughout the programme, Professional Development in Practice builds on your first year and prepares you for life beyond graduation.

• Land Law

  You'll build a strong understanding of the principles of English Land Law and explore how the law regulates the ownership, use and transfer of land and property.
  
  You'll develop your legal research, case reading and problem-solving skills as you explore topics including the nature of property, legal and equitable interests in land, freehold and leasehold ownership, land registration, co-ownership, trusts of land, easements, mortgages and freehold covenants.
  
  Through real legal cases and practical scenarios, you'll examine how land law affects individuals, businesses and communities, building the analytical skills and legal understanding that underpin many areas of legal practice.

• Tort Law

  You'll explore how the law responds when people, organisations or public bodies cause harm to others. You'll examine the principles of civil liability and the legal remedies available when rights are infringed.
  
  You'll develop your legal research, case reading and problem-solving skills as you explore topics including negligence, employers' and occupiers' liability, trespass to land and the person, public and private nuisance, defamation, privacy and vicarious liability. Throughout the module, you'll consider how human rights continue to influence this evolving area of law.
  
  Using real cases and practical legal scenarios, you'll strengthen your ability to analyse complex legal problems and apply legal principles to situations that affect individuals, businesses and wider society.

• Employment Law

  You'll explore the legal framework that governs the relationship between employers and employees, and how employment law protects rights in the workplace.

  You'll develop your legal research, case reading and problem-solving skills as you examine employment status, contracts of employment, pay, working time, dismissal, redundancy and equality law. You'll consider how employment rights are created and enforced, and how the law balances the interests of employers and employees in a changing world of work.

  Using real cases and contemporary workplace issues, you'll strengthen your ability to analyse complex legal problems and understand the role employment law plays in promoting fairness, accountability and equal opportunity.

  This module is compulsory for the Social Justice pathway.

Optional modules

• Criminal Procedure and Evidence

  Explore how the criminal justice system operates in practice and examine the rules that shape criminal investigations, trials and sentencing. This module introduces key aspects of criminal procedure and evidence, helping you understand how legal principles are applied in real courtroom settings.
  
  You'll consider topics including witness evidence, confessions, identification procedures, expert testimony, sentencing and criminal appeals, while examining the balance between fairness, justice and public protection. Through case studies and workshops, you'll apply legal rules to realistic scenarios and develop your skills in legal analysis and problem-solving.
  
  Assessment is centred on preparing professional legal advice on issues of criminal procedure, evidence and sentencing, giving you experience of the types of tasks undertaken in legal practice and building the analytical and communication skills valued across the profession.

• Cyberlaw, Regulation and AI

  Technology is transforming the way we live, work and interact with the law. In this module, you'll explore the legal and ethical challenges created by digital technologies, from online content and data protection to cyber regulation and artificial intelligence.
  
  You'll examine how governments, organisations and international bodies regulate technology at national, European and global levels, considering questions of accountability, privacy, free expression and innovation. The module draws on contemporary legal developments, ensuring you engage with emerging issues shaping society and the future of legal practice.
  
  Through case studies and problem-based learning, you'll develop the skills to analyse complex legal questions and evaluate competing perspectives. Whether you're interested in legal practice, policy, technology or business, this module provides valuable insight into one of the fastest-evolving areas of modern law.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Technology Law pathway.

• Company Law/ Business Associations

  You'll explore how companies are created, governed and regulated, and the legal framework that underpins modern business.
  
  You'll develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you examine how companies are formed, financed, managed and dissolved. You'll explore the rights and responsibilities of directors and shareholders, corporate governance, and the legal challenges organisations face throughout their lifecycle.
  
  Drawing on real-world examples, you'll consider how company law responds to contemporary issues including sustainability, corporate responsibility and ethical business practice. By analysing legal and regulatory frameworks, you'll develop the confidence to evaluate complex commercial issues and understand the role of law in shaping responsible organisations.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Commerical Law pathway.

• International Law

  You'll explore the legal principles that govern relationships between states, international organisations and the wider global community.

  You'll develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you examine the foundations of international law, including its sources, key institutions and the rights and responsibilities of states. You'll explore how international law shapes issues such as human rights, the peaceful settlement of disputes, international trade, environmental protection and the use of force.

  Using contemporary case studies and global legal challenges, you'll strengthen your understanding of how international law responds to an increasingly interconnected world and develop the analytical skills to evaluate complex issues that cross national borders.

  This module is compulsory for the Global Law and Social Justice pathways.

• European Union Law

  You'll explore the constitutional and institutional foundations of the European Union and its influence on legal systems across Europe and beyond.
  
  You'll examine the history and development of EU law alongside the role of key institutions, including the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission. You'll also explore the relationship between Union law and national law, the role of the Court of Justice of the European Union, and the legal principles that shape how EU law is created, interpreted and applied.
  
  By studying EU law within its wider political and social context, you'll develop a deeper understanding of international legal systems and strengthen the analytical skills needed to navigate complex legal questions in an interconnected world.

• Media and Entertainment Law

  Explore the legal and ethical issues shaping today's media landscape, from traditional journalism and broadcasting to social media, online content creation and the entertainment industry. This module examines how the law balances freedom of expression, privacy, reputation and public interest in a rapidly changing digital world.

  You'll investigate topics including media regulation, defamation, contempt of court, online safety, freedom of information and the rights of public figures and content creators. Along the way, you'll consider the responsibilities of media professionals and the wider social and political impact of communication technologies.

  Through case studies and contemporary debates, you'll analyse high-profile legal issues and evaluate how the law responds to evolving expectations around privacy, celebrity culture and digital participation. The module offers valuable insight for careers in law, media, policy, communications and the creative industries.

• Intellectual Property Law

  Ideas, innovation and creativity are at the heart of modern economies. This module explores how the law protects intellectual property, examining the rights and responsibilities associated with inventions, brands, creative works and confidential information.
  
  You'll study key areas including patents, trade marks, copyright, design rights and breach of confidence, while considering the international frameworks that shape intellectual property law across borders. The module also explores the policy debates that sit behind legal protection, balancing innovation, competition and public access.
  
  Through case studies and contemporary examples, you'll develop the skills to analyse complex legal issues and solve practical problems that arise in professional practice. Whether your interests lie in technology, business, the creative industries or legal practice, this module offers valuable insight into one of the most dynamic and globally connected areas of law.

Law ID

Optional modules

• Law ID - employability programme

  Through our LawID programme, you'll develop the real-world skills to thrive in legal and professional environments through a variety of experiential learning opportunities. You'll put your learning into practice through clinical legal experience, pro-bono opportunities, and our internationally renowned mooting and client interviewing opportunities. You'll benefit from in-house and external mentoring schemes, work experience opportunities and a range of guest speakers, as well as supporting our local community through initatives with Flag DV, Citizens Advice and Asylum Welcome.
  
  Whether you want to become a barrister, qualify as a solicitor, progress as a legal executive or apply your skills in a successful career outside of legal practice - you'll gain the knowledge and skills to reach your goals.

• Law in Action - Work Placement

  You may have the opportunity to undertake a work placement through our Law in Action module. This involves participating in a placement equivalent to approximately 28 days’ work experience. This may operate as a block of 6 consecutive weeks, or as 1 day per week depending upon the requirements of the placement organisation. This placement module is designed to enhance your practical legal knowledge and wider transferable skills.
  
  The work placements are facilitated by the university, however you will be responsible for your own travel and associated costs. Most travel costs are minimal as placements are organised to be within easy reach of the campus or in local Oxford. Placements in the surrounding area, such as Witney or Abingdon, will require bus travel which can amount to between £3-8 for a return ticket. Acceptance onto the Law in Action module is competitive and only a limited number of places are available, all subject to the availability of external placements.

Final Year

Compulsory modules

• Becoming an Oxford Brookes Law Graduate

  The third in a series of three modules running throughout the programme, this final-year module brings together everything you've learned throughout your degree, helping you reflect on your experiences, recognise your strengths and prepare for your next steps beyond university.
  
  Through practical activities and guided reflection, you'll explore what it means to be an Oxford Brookes Law graduate and how your knowledge, values and skills can make a difference in the world. You'll consider the opportunities available within legal practice and across a wide range of professions, developing the confidence to articulate your ambitions and professional identity.
  
  Building on the experiences gained through your studies, LawID and wider university life, you'll create a personal action plan for the future. Whether your next step is legal qualification, postgraduate study or another career path, this module helps you graduate with a clear sense of direction and the confidence to pursue it.

• Equity and Trusts

  Equity and Trusts explores the legal principles that ensure fairness where the strict application of the law alone may not provide an appropriate outcome. You'll examine how equitable principles have developed alongside the common law and continue to shape modern legal practice.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you explore the creation and operation of trusts, including express, resulting and constructive trusts, charitable trusts, proprietary estoppel, trustees' powers and duties, breach of trust and equitable remedies.
  
  As the compulsory Honours-level project module, you'll also complete an independent research project and research trail, strengthening your research skills while developing the confidence to investigate complex legal questions and communicate well-reasoned legal arguments.

Optional modules

• International Human Rights Law

  International Human Rights Law explores the history, philosophy and contemporary protection of human rights, asking whether today's international legal systems are fit for purpose.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and evaluative skills as you examine how human rights are protected through international and regional legal frameworks. You'll explore contemporary debates alongside topics such as refugee law, international criminal law and landmark cases under the European Convention on Human Rights, including freedom of expression and the prohibition of torture.
  
  By engaging with global legal challenges and competing perspectives, you'll deepen your understanding of one of the most significant and rapidly evolving areas of international law while strengthening your ability to analyse complex legal and ethical issues.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Global Law pathway.

• Nationality, Immigration and Asylum

  Nationality, Immigration and Asylum explores the legal frameworks that govern citizenship, migration and international protection, examining how law responds to some of today's most significant social, political and humanitarian challenges.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and evaluative skills as you examine nationality law, immigration and asylum systems, refugee protection and the legal responses to issues such as detention, deportation, human trafficking and family life. You'll consider how UK, European and international law shape migration policy, while critically evaluating the legal and ethical debates surrounding borders, identity and human rights.
  
  Through contemporary case studies and legal analysis, you'll deepen your understanding of this complex and evolving area of law while strengthening your ability to assess competing perspectives and develop well-reasoned legal arguments.

• Medical Law

  Medical Law explores the legal and ethical questions that arise in healthcare, examining how the law balances individual rights, professional responsibilities and the public interest.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you examine issues including consent to treatment, medical negligence, resource allocation within the NHS, reproduction and surrogacy, abortion law, end-of-life care and the regulation of human tissue. You'll consider how legal and ethical principles shape decision-making in complex and often sensitive situations.
  
  Through contemporary case studies and legal debate, you'll develop a deeper understanding of one of the most challenging and fast-evolving areas of legal practice while strengthening your ability to evaluate competing legal, ethical and societal perspectives.

• Equality Law

  In this module, you'll explore how the law seeks to promote fairness and protect people from discrimination in everyday life, while examining the challenges of creating a more equal society.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and evaluative skills as you examine the Equality Act 2010 and other anti-discrimination legislation covering protected characteristics including sex, race, disability, religion and sexual orientation. You'll explore how the courts interpret equality law, its impact in areas such as employment, education and services, and the role of positive action in addressing inequality.
  
  Through contemporary case studies and legal debate, you'll evaluate the effectiveness of equality law, consider whose interests it protects, and explore how legal reform could strengthen equality and inclusion in the future.

• Contemporary Issues in Law and Technology

  This module explores some of the most pressing legal and ethical questions arising from technological change, drawing on current research and real-world developments as they happen.
  
  The topics you study will vary each year to reflect emerging issues and the expertise of Oxford Brookes Law School academics. Areas may include artificial intelligence, algorithmic decision-making, social media regulation, online safety, digital rights, deepfakes, hate speech, the gig economy and the use of technology in healthcare, security and conflict.
  
  Through discussion, debate and critical analysis, you'll examine how law responds to innovation and consider the wider social implications of technological change. The module offers a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary challenges at the forefront of legal scholarship and practice.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Technology Law pathway.

• Family Law

  This module explores the legal principles governing adult relationships, parenting and child welfare, while examining how the law responds to changing social attitudes and family structures.
  
  You'll study topics including marriage, divorce, cohabitation, financial arrangements, domestic abuse, parental responsibility, child protection and adoption. Through practical scenarios and case studies, you'll consider the challenges faced by families and the role of legal professionals in supporting individuals through complex and often sensitive situations.
  
  The module encourages you to engage critically with issues of social justice, equality and diversity, exploring how family law intersects with wider questions of identity, gender and fairness. You'll develop your skills in legal reasoning, problem-solving and client advice while gaining insight into an area of law with a profound impact on society.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Social Justice pathway.

• Independent Study

  The Independent Study Module gives you the opportunity to explore a legal topic in greater depth, working closely with an academic whose research interests align with your chosen area. It allows you to investigate issues that go beyond the taught curriculum and develop expertise in a subject that reflects your interests and future ambitions.
  
  You'll build advanced research, analysis and academic writing skills as you engage with legal scholarship, case law and contemporary debates. Students on our named pathways complete their project within their area of specialism, providing an opportunity to deepen their knowledge and showcase their expertise.
  
  Whether you're considering postgraduate study, legal practice or another professional path, the module enables you to pursue an area you're passionate about while developing the independent learning skills valued by employers and researchers alike.
  
  This module is compulsory if studying one of the named pathways.

• Law in Action

  Law in Action gives you the opportunity to apply your legal knowledge in a professional setting, developing the practical skills, confidence and experience valued by employers.
  
  Through a placement in a legal or law-related organisation, you'll put your learning into practice while developing your communication, problem-solving and professional skills. Alongside your placement, you'll critically reflect on your experiences, exploring how legal knowledge is applied in real-world contexts and how it shapes your professional identity.
  
  By bridging the gap between academic study and professional practice, this module will help you develop the confidence, adaptability and reflective skills needed for a career in law and a wide range of other graduate professions.

• Commercial Law

  Commercial Law explores the legal framework that underpins business transactions, from the sale of goods and consumer protection to finance and commercial risk. You'll examine how the law enables trade while balancing the interests of businesses and consumers.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you explore the rights and responsibilities of buyers and sellers, the transfer of ownership and risk, manufacturers' liability, commercial finance and the legal remedies available when agreements break down. You'll also examine how consumer protection legislation shapes modern commercial practice.
  
  Through real-world commercial scenarios and legal case studies, you'll strengthen your understanding of one of the most commercially significant areas of legal practice and build the confidence to analyse complex legal and business issues.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Commerical Law pathway.

• Sports Law

  Sports Law explores how legal rules shape the governance, integrity and future of sport. From elite competition to grassroots participation, you'll examine the legal and ethical challenges facing one of the world's most influential industries.
  
  Develop your legal research, critical analysis and problem-solving skills as you explore the regulation of sport, governance and dispute resolution alongside contemporary issues including human rights, gender and racial equality, anti-doping and financial sustainability. Drawing on national, European and international legal frameworks, you'll evaluate how the law balances the interests of athletes, governing bodies, clubs and wider society.
  
  Through real-world case studies and contemporary sporting issues, you'll strengthen your ability to analyse complex legal questions and understand the role of law in promoting fairness, accountability and integrity in sport.

• Dirty Laws: Delinquency, Stigma, and Taboo

  Explore some of the most challenging and controversial questions in criminal law and justice. This module examines how societies define, regulate and respond to behaviours that are considered deviant, taboo or morally contentious, encouraging you to question why certain actions are criminalised and how those decisions reflect wider social values.
  
  You'll investigate topics including organised and white-collar crime, policing, mental health, sexuality, sex work, pornography and freedom of expression, drawing on perspectives from feminist theory, critical race theory and political philosophy. Explore classic debates about law and morality, asking fundamental questions about the relationship between legal rules, ethics and social change.
  
  You'll develop a deeper understanding of crime, power and justice, while examining how law can both challenge and reinforce inequality within society.
  
  This module is compulsory for the Criminal Justice pathway.

• Dissertation

  The Dissertation gives you the opportunity to become a specialist in an area of law that interests you most, carrying out an in-depth independent research project with the support of an expert academic supervisor.
  
  You'll strengthen your legal research, critical analysis and written communication skills as you investigate a contemporary legal issue of your choice. Whether you're exploring hate crime, the impact of Brexit, sexual consent or another area aligned with your interests, you'll evaluate complex legal questions, develop well-reasoned arguments and communicate your findings effectively.
  
  The Dissertation provides the opportunity to explore your chosen area of specialism in greater depth while preparing for postgraduate study or a wide range of professional careers.
  
  This module is compulsory if studying one of the named pathways.