Program Overview

Introduction to the Online Master of Legal Studies

The Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program at William & Mary is designed to enhance legal knowledge and advance careers. The program offers four concentrations: Compliance and Risk Management, Law and Emerging Technologies, Finance, and Health Law.

Program Details

• The program is 100% online, with asynchronous courses.
• It requires 32 credits.
• The program has four concentrations.
• Courses are 8 weeks long, with two courses per semester.
• The total estimated tuition is $41,216.
• The time to completion is 16 months.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition Overview

The tuition rate for the William & Mary Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program for the 20252026 academic year is $1,288 per credit hour. The program requires a total of 32 credit hours, bringing the estimated total tuition to $41,216. In addition to tuition, students are responsible for a $100 university fee per semester.

Financial Aid Options

There are several options available to help fund the MLS education:

• Federal Student Aid: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens may qualify for federal loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Available to eligible graduate students regardless of financial need.
  • Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans: Credit-based loans that can be used to cover additional costs not met by Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or education assistance programs.
• Private Loans: A variety of private lenders offer education loans to graduate students.

Application Deadlines

• Priority Deadline: March 13
• Final Deadline: April 13
• Summer Session A: May 4 - June 24
• Summer Session B: June 29 - August 19

Military Benefits

William & Mary proudly supports active-duty military personnel and veterans. If eligible for military education benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program, or other VA benefits, the admissions and financial aid teams can assist in understanding and accessing these resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Total Cost of the Program

The tuition rate for the William & Mary Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program for the 20252026 academic year is $1,288 per credit hour. The program requires a total of 32 credit hours, bringing the estimated total tuition to $41,216 plus any applicable fees.

Scholarships and Grants

While institutional scholarships for the online MLS program are currently limited, students are encouraged to research outside scholarships and legal studies funding opportunities.

Federal Financial Aid

Yes, federal financial aid is available to eligible students enrolled in the online MLS program. To apply, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Military Education Benefits

Absolutely, William & Mary welcomes active-duty military members, veterans, and eligible dependents. They may be able to use benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program, or other VA-supported aid.

Payment Plans

William & Mary offers payment plans for some academic programs, but availability for students in the online MLS program may vary. It is recommended to reach out to the Office of Financial Aid to explore options and determine whether a payment plan or alternative financing method is available.

Textbook and Course Material Costs

The program minimizes textbook and course material costs as much as possible, with many courses not requiring a textbook at all.