Program Overview

Introduction to the Master in the Study of Law Program

The Master in the Study of Law (MSL) program at Ohio State University is designed for working professionals whose careers intersect with the law. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. legal system, enabling students to make informed decisions, manage risk, and lead with confidence in their respective fields.

Program Overview

The MSL program is offered through the Moritz College of Law and can be completed fully online or in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online courses. The program requires a minimum of 30 credits and can be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis. Students have the flexibility to design their own curriculum, choosing from a wide range of electives or focusing on specific areas such as Alternative Dispute Resolution, Compliance, Health Law, Intellectual Property and Technology Law, or the Legal Environment of Business.

Admission Criteria

To be considered for admission to the MSL program, applicants must have:

• At least a four-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent)
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) for the last bachelor's or advanced degree earned
• Evidence that they can succeed in the MSL program, whether through substantial relevant work experience or strong academic performance GRE, GMAT, and LSAT scores are not required for admission.

Application Materials

The application process involves submitting:

• An online application
• A resume or CV
• Academic credentials and transcripts
• Letters of recommendation (two are required)
• A statement of purpose (up to 2 pages)
• A non-refundable application processing fee of $60

Curriculum

The MSL program requires the completion of at least 30 credits. All students must take two foundational online courses:

• LAW 8525 Intro to US Legal Systems
• LAW 8550 Legal Research and Writing

Beyond these core courses, students can choose from various electives to meet their interests and career goals. The program also offers concentrations in specific areas, including Compliance, Health Law, Legal Environment of Business, Intellectual Property and Technology Law, and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Concentrations

Compliance Concentration

This concentration focuses on analyzing risks and designing and managing compliance functions. It covers topics such as regulatory compliance, HR compliance, financial crime, data privacy compliance, and healthcare compliance.

Health Law Concentration

This concentration introduces professionals working in the healthcare sector to the fundamentals of health law and healthcare compliance. It covers a wide range of health law-related courses to gain well-rounded knowledge of different aspects of health law.

Legal Environment of Business Concentration

This concentration provides a study of the statutory and common law governing the business environment. It covers different sets of rules and regulations affecting businesses, such as business formation, employment and labor law, contracts, taxation, regulatory compliance, and more.

Intellectual Property and Technology Law Concentration

This concentration includes the study of the principal forms of intellectual property protection copyright, trademark, and patent law as well as issues related to the law of cyberspace, privacy, cybersecurity, and technology.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Concentration

This concentration is for those interested in alternative dispute resolution, in professional roles involving transactions, relationship building, or conflict management, as well as in management and leadership. It covers negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and other out-of-court processes.

Faculty

The MSL program is led by esteemed Moritz College of Law faculty and seasoned practitioners who bring real-world experience to the classroom. Faculty members include:

• Elizabeth Anstaett
• Marcel Duhamel
• Bill Froehlich
• Kevin Grether
• Stephanie Hanna
• Kirk Herath
• Sarah Kaiser
• Natasha Landon
• Max Reisinger
• Colleen Settineri
• Todd Starker
• Trent Stechschulte
• Liz Stokes
• Kevin Tabor
• Laura Vlieg
• Mindi Wells

Testimonials

Graduates of the MSL program have found the experience to be highly beneficial in advancing their careers. They appreciate the flexibility of the program, the expertise of the faculty, and the opportunity to apply legal knowledge in their professional lives.

Tuition and Fees

The estimated cost per semester for part-time tuition assumes enrollment in six credit hours. Tuition fees include:

• Instructional Fee: $929.50 per credit hour
• General Fee: $32.63 per credit hour
• Distance Learning Fee: $100 per semester
• Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable): $200 per semester

For full-time tuition, the estimated cost per semester assumes enrollment in 12 credit hours. Tuition fees include:

• Instructional Fee: $1,193.00 per credit hour
• General Fee: $32.63 per credit hour
• Distance Learning Fee: $100 per semester
• Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable): $200 per semester

Financial Aid

Information on financial aid, including tuition reimbursement and payment options, is available to help students manage their expenses.

Conclusion

The Master in the Study of Law program at Ohio State University offers a unique opportunity for working professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the U.S. legal system and its applications in various fields. With its flexible format, comprehensive curriculum, and expert faculty, the MSL program is designed to help students achieve their career goals and make a meaningful impact in their respective industries.