Introduction to Law and Economics

Overview

Academic Lead: Professor Garry Gabison

Syllabus: SUM5007 Introduction to Law and Economics [PDF]

This course teaches essential concepts in law and economics in a dynamic setting. It introduces rationality theory and explores specific areas of law, such as Tort, Contract, or Criminal Law, focusing on current topics. Students will apply analytical skills to analyse legal situations, culminating in a legal memo addressing a current legal issue or public consultation.

Course content is subject to change.

Course aims

This module aims to:

• Provide students with an understanding of the main law economics concepts.
• Provide students with soft skills such as legal memorandum and advocacy.
• Give students an opportunity to apply those skills to real life context.

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical workshops and field trips. 

Academic Content: 

• Develop understanding and engage with the theory behind the various law and economics concepts.
• Apply specific knowledge developed in some bespoke areas of law and undertake practical activities e.g. drafting a memorandum, participating in a mock trial, etc.
• Develop an understanding of principles of economics analysis of the law concepts

Disciplinary Skills - able to:

• Draft a memorandum
• Develop skills needed for team work (including communication) to work collaboratively in a team with different stakeholders.
• Conduct legal research and understand the interplay with various tools such as databases and AI.

Attributes:

• Develop critical and reflective skills needed for independent work.
• Develop good judgment to problem solving and independent work.
• Analyse and synthesise the material in this module in order to be able to resolve or debate issues which arise in legal practice.

Fees

Additional costs

All reading material will be provided online, so it is not necessary to purchase any books.

For course and housing fees visit our finance webpage

Entry requirements

Course prerequisite:

No prior content knowledge needed.

We welcome Summer School students from around the world. We accept a range of qualifications

How to apply

Have a question? Get in touch - one of the team will be happy to help!

Applications close 26 May 2026