Program Overview

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Introduction to the Online Master of Legal Studies

The Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is a program designed for non-lawyer professionals who want to further their career through a better understanding of the U.S. legal system and the legal challenges facing their industry. This program consists of general law core courses and courses in specific concentrations to provide greater specialization and expertise.

Key Details

• 100% online, asynchronous courses
• 32 credits
• 4 concentrations
• 8-week courses, 2 courses per semester
• Total Estimated Tuition: $41,216
• Time to Completion: 16 months
• Application Deadlines: Summer 2026
  • Priority Deadline: March 13
  • Final Deadline: April 13
  • Summer Session A: May 4 - June 24
  • Summer Session B: June 29 - August 19

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the online MLS program, students will have a working knowledge of foundations of law and basic legal concepts. They will be able to understand and navigate laws and regulations that apply to their operations and industry, as well as how to interact with legal counsel to manage legal risks.

Competencies

Through the MLS coursework, students will:

• Understand core legal concepts
• Understand how to read legislation and regulations
• Understand dispute resolution including negotiation, mediation, and arbitration
• Understand legal principles related to business entities, corporate governance, mergers, acquisitions, contracts, intellectual property, and other aspects of commercial law
• Understand ethical considerations
• Know how to solve complex problems

Program Requirements

The MLS requires the completion of 32 credits earned through 16 credits of general law courses, 12 credits of work in the selected concentration, and 4 credits of elective coursework.

Core Courses

No matter which concentration students select to earn their MLS, they will take the following core courses:

• Introduction to U.S. Law and the Legal System (2 credits)
• Law, Ethics, and Responsible Leadership (2 credits)
• Contract Law: Interpretation and Strategy (4 credits)
• Business Associations and Organizational Management (4 credits)
• Foundations of Regulatory Law: Antitrust, Privacy, and Tax (4 credits)

Concentrations

Students can choose from four concentrations:

• Compliance and Risk Management Concentration
• Law and Emerging Technologies Concentration
• Finance Concentration
• Health Law Concentration

Compliance and Risk Management Concentration

This concentration provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in roles across various sectors, from corporate offices to government agencies, healthcare organizations to non-profit organizations, and beyond.

Law and Emerging Technologies Concentration

This concentration builds a strong foundation in the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity.

Finance Concentration

This concentration opens doors to new opportunities or further career advancement in corporate finance, banking, investment management, or regulatory compliance.

Health Law Concentration

This concentration provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks and regulations shaping the healthcare industry.

Program Delivery

All courses for the MLS are online and 100% asynchronous, meaning students are not required to log in for class at a designated time. Course materials are accessible through the law school's learning management system and are taught in eight-week sessions during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Master of Legal Studies FAQs

What is an MLS?

A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is an alternative to the traditional three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree program. An MLS program can help students better understand and use the law in their day-to-day work, especially if they work in a heavily regulated industry.

Who can benefit from the online MLS degree program?

This degree is beneficial to a wide array of students, including those motivated to advance their career, work in a heavily regulated industry, or are passionate about the intersection of business and law.

Will earning my MLS prepare me to sit for the bar exam?

The online MLS program will not prepare students to sit for any bar exam, will not guarantee admission to any J.D. program, and will not prepare students to become a practicing attorney.

Can I earn my MLS if I previously earned a J.D.?

If students have previously earned a J.D., they are not eligible for admission to the online MLS program. However, they may be interested in participating as a non-degree seeker.

Is a legal studies degree like the online MLS program worth it?

To answer this question, students need to assess their individual goals for pursuing an MLS degree, reflecting on career aspirations, desired job titles, salary goals, interest in the law, and the potential for career change or advancement.