Course Catalogue

The Politics Of Labour Law LAW4095

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Law
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

The Politics of Labour Law course is designed to facilitate an advanced level investigation into theories of labour law and current legal and policy issues arising in the field. In terms of the structure of the course, we begin by placing the development of labour law and industrial relations concepts in historical, political and economic context and then, building on these discussions, to focus on current issues involving labour law and policy.

Timetable

There will be 10 x 2-hour seminars spread throughout the semester.

Requirements of Entry

The course is open to LLB students (Scots Law and Common Law) and visiting students.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

One 3000 word essay, worth 70% of the final grade.

One oral assessment, worth 30% of the final grade, students to answer questions on their own essays and on any course material that was not assessed by the essay.

In recognition of the potential disability equality impact of the oral assessment, the course team will, in line with recommendations contained in the School's Disability Handbook, adopt inclusive assessment practices and implement reasonable adjustments to the assessment as required.

Course Aims

■ To introduce the students to seminal writings and theories in labour law and political economy

■ To place the development of labour law and industrial relations concepts in theoretical, historical and political context

■ To assist students in developing a critical understanding of the role of law in industrial and employment relations

■ To enhance the students' understanding of some issues in labour law

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Summarise and explain a range of sociological, political and legal theoretical analyses of labour law and industrial relations institutions

■ Assess critically the differences between diverse theoretical approaches to labour law

■ Explain and assess trends in the development of industrial relations, employment policy and labour law

■ Develop and articulate a critical understanding of the role of law in industrial and employment relations

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions