European law, as an academic subject, usually engages with the policies, courtroom proceedings and legislation that form the legal framework for the European Union. These classes also tend to investigate treaties the Union has formed over the years it has been in effect.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.