Program Overview

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Introduction to the Online Master of Legal Studies

The University of Oklahoma's online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is a dynamic program designed for professionals who work alongside legal teams, manage compliance, or navigate regulatory frameworks across industries. This flexible, 100% online degree can be completed in as little as 15 months and is offered through OU's top-ranked College of Law.

Program Overview

The online MLS program empowers professionals to lead with confidence in roles involving contracts, governance, policy, and risk management—without needing a JD or LSAT. Whether you're in healthcare, education, business, or government, the online MLS equips you with the legal fluency to make strategic decisions and elevate your impact.

Time to Complete

• 15-18+ months

Credit Hours

• 32

Time Commitment

• 15 to 20 hours weekly

Start Dates

• Fall & Spring

Career Opportunities and Industry Impact

OU's Master of Legal Studies blends the flexibility of asynchronous learning with the connection of personalized instruction, offering a comprehensive legal foundation. Students advance through core courses in contract law, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance, and complete the program with electives aligned with their industry and career goals. Each course delivers practical legal insight, sharpens analytical skills, and fosters collaboration with faculty and peers—preparing graduates to make informed decisions and drive strategic impact across healthcare, education, business, government, and more.

Career Opportunities

• Contracts Manager
• Legal Project Coordinator
• Operations Manager (with legal or compliance focus)
• Corporate Ethics or Governance Officer
• Legislative Assistant
• Public Affairs Specialist
  • Regulatory Compliance Analyst
  • Risk and Policy Advisor
  • HR Compliance Officer
  • Corporate Secretary
  • Legal or Court Clerk

Program Outcomes

OU's online Master of Legal Studies degree equips professionals with the legal knowledge and practical skills needed to lead confidently in law-adjacent roles. You'll graduate prepared to navigate complex legal frameworks, collaborate with legal teams, and make informed decisions that align with organizational goals.

Program Outcomes

• Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and court decisions in business and government contexts
• Conduct legal research using authoritative sources and communicate findings clearly and professionally
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with legal precision
• Lead compliance initiatives and contribute to internal investigations
• Develop policies informed by regulatory frameworks and legal risk assessments
• Make strategic decisions about dispute resolution and governance
• Collaborate effectively with legal counsel, executives, and regulators
• Train teams in legal, ethical, and regulatory matters

Course Details

OU's Master of Legal Studies empowers professionals to lead with confidence in law-adjacent roles across industries. Students begin the program with Foundations of the U.S. Legal System, build a strong legal foundation through core courses in contract law, dispute resolution, and regulatory frameworks, and round out their education with electives tailored to their professional goals.

Course List

• Foundations of the U.S. Legal System
  • Credit Hours: 2
• Business Organizational Structures and Governance
  • Credit Hours: 3
• Regulatory and Administrative Law
  • Credit Hours: 3
• Contract Law
  • Credit Hours: 3
• Legal Research and Sources of Law
  • Credit Hours: 1
• Processes in Dispute Resolution
  • Credit Hours: 3
• Written and Oral Communication
  • Credit Hours: 3

Why Choose OU Law for an Online MLS

The OU College of Law offers a Juris Doctor program that is consistently ranked among the best value law degrees. Coupled with OU's dedication to innovation, the OU College of Law distinguishes itself as an excellent choice for pursuing a Master of Legal Studies.

Faculty Expertise

The University of Oklahoma's College of Law brings together faculty with deep experience in legal practice, policy, and organizational leadership. These educators specialize in areas such as regulatory compliance, contract law, dispute resolution, and administrative governance—fields that shape the program's practical, career-focused curriculum.

Robust Student Support

OU Online and the OU College of Law offer robust student support services, including academic support, online tutoring, mental health counseling, and an online career development center.

Cost and Financial Aid

Earning your online master's degree in legal studies is an investment in your future—and OU Online is committed to making that investment accessible and transparent.

Tuition and Fees

• Oklahoma Residents: $612.65 per credit hour, plus additional fees of $201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester
• Non-Residents: $1,111.90 per credit hour, plus additional fees of $201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester

Financial Aid

To help reduce your out-of-pocket costs, financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the online Master of Legal Studies program is designed for professionals ready to lead in law-adjacent roles across industries. While prior legal experience is not required, applicants should demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a commitment to advancing in compliance, governance, or policy.

Admission Criteria

• Hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university (or international equivalent)
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
• Be in good academic standing with their current or most recent institution
• Submit unofficial transcripts for initial review; official transcripts are required within 45 days of admission

Application Timeline

The admissions committee uses a rolling admissions process, reviewing applications as they are received. Admissions may remain open until two weeks before classes begin, though some programs may have earlier deadlines. The committee typically responds to applicants within two weeks of receiving a completed application.