Program Overview

Online Master of Legal Studies

The Online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree is designed for non-lawyers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the law and its applications in their respective fields. This program is ideal for professionals who work closely with legal advisors or need a strong understanding of laws and regulations.

Program Overview

The Online Master of Legal Studies program at DePaul College of Law incorporates simulation-based assignments and collaboration opportunities in an online format. This program prepares students to confidently influence legal decisions at their workplace and effectively engage with complex legal issues within their industry.

Tuition Summary

• Total Credits: 30
• Cost Per Credit: $1,296
• Total Program Tuition: $38,880
• Professional Experience Waiver: up to 6 credits for students with recent, relevant work experience
• Total credits, with full waiver: 24
• Total tuition, with full waiver: $31,104

Program at a Glance

• Reduce credit hour requirements and save on tuition with a professional experience waiver
• Work through a blend of asynchronous and synchronous coursework that couples flexibility with hands-on application
• Learn at a top law school in the nation according to the Princeton Review
• Advance your skill level to support your career goals with three concentration options
• Complete your coursework entirely online in two and a half years or less

Essential Legal Knowledge for Non-Lawyers

All students begin with core courses that provide a strong foundation in essential legal principles and skills. Some of these courses include:

• Introduction to Legal Research and Writing
• Regulatory Compliance
• Communication and Negotiation
• Organizational Management and the Law

Concentration Options

Students can specialize their degree by choosing one of the following concentration options:

• Business Law
• Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Law
• General Legal Studies

What is an MLS Degree?

An MLS degree program is an in-depth legal education designed for non-lawyers who have an undergraduate degree but do not necessarily have previous law education or experience. It is designed to help professionals in regulated fields enhance their careers by acquiring relevant expertise and practical knowledge of the law.

Comparison of Law Degrees

The following table compares the Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Laws (LLM), and Juris Doctor (JD) degrees: | Program | Master of Legal Studies (MLS) | Master of Laws (LLM) | Juris Doctor (JD) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Focus | Designed for non-lawyers who want an in-depth understanding of the law | The LLM is an advanced, academic degree in law that is usually pursued after a JD or the international equivalent | The JD is the primary professional degree for aspiring lawyers in the United States | | Students | Professionals from a wide range of fields who engage with legal matters or counsel in their roles but do not intend to become practicing attorneys | Lawyers who either already have a JD and wish to gain expertise in a specific area or international lawyers who are interested in practicing in the United States | Individuals aiming to practice law, pass the bar exam and represent clients in legal matters | | Curriculum | Provides an overview of the U.S. legal system as well as introduction to practices such as legal research and negotiation | Focuses on specific areas of law, providing advanced training beyond a JD program | Covers a broad range of legal topics, including contracts, torts and civil procedure, among others |

Career Outcomes

An extensive legal education can increase marketability to potential employers and act as an effective job retention and growth strategy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, legal occupations are projected to grow 10 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. Some potential career outcomes for MLS graduates include:

• Compliance Managers: $101K
• Human Resources Managers: $139K
• Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators: $67K
• Quality Control Systems Managers: $120K
• Information Security Engineers: $106K

Who Should Consider Pursuing an MLS Degree?

The MLS degree is especially beneficial for individuals working in finance, real estate, healthcare, and public administration. It is also advantageous for professionals who are aiming to pivot into a law-related career, aspiring to advance within their organization, or considering law school.