This course provides an introduction to and critical overview of the legal system of the European Union and the processes of European integration.  It is intended to provide students with a deep insight into the internal structure and functioning of the EU and the integrative processes that have contributed to this.  The course also considers the role of the EU as a global actor, particularly in the Asia Pacific Region.  The course takes an interdisciplinary approach examining selected topics in constitutional and substantive law from a range of political, economic and social perspectives.  The course will also provide students with the opportunity, where appropriate, to draw comparisons with the Australian federal system and local approaches to substantive law.