Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Legal Studies in Business Law and Compliance

The online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Business Law and Compliance at Wake Forest University School of Law is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex and heavily regulated business environment. This program aims to equip students with the expertise to identify legal risks, manage them, and develop solutions to avoid costly compliance issues.

Program Overview

The 30-credit MLS in Business Law and Compliance includes:

• 13.5 credits in the required core curriculum
• 10.5+ credits in Business Law and Compliance track courses
• Up to 6 credits from any other electives across tracks

Target Audience

The Business Law and Compliance track is well-suited for professionals in business, compliance, and finance roles, including:

• Financial professionals
• Compliance and risk officers
• Insurance professionals
• Purchasing agents
• Business owners and principals
• Nonprofit leaders and board members
• Operations managers
• Auditors
• Insurance analysts

Course Structure

Courses in this degree cover topics that include labor law, business compliance, cybersecurity and privacy, and more.

Career Opportunities

A Master of Legal Studies in Business Law and Compliance prepares professionals for specialized roles in corporate legal departments, compliance offices, and regulatory affairs. These professionals use their legal expertise to help organizations navigate complex regulations and maintain ethical business practices.

Comparison with an MBA

An MLS in Business Law focuses specifically on legal principles, regulations, and compliance issues that affect business operations, while an MBA provides broad training in general management, strategy, finance, marketing, and operations. The MLS is designed for non-lawyers who need deep legal knowledge to excel in compliance, risk management, or regulatory roles, whereas the MBA prepares graduates for senior management positions across various business functions.

Industry Market Insights

Compliance training was a top priority for 41% of teams in 2024. Managing regulatory and political change remained a key hurdle for compliance professionals in 2024. By learning to navigate business law, professionals demonstrate their value as compliance experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a Master of Legal Studies in Business Law and Compliance?

This degree can benefit a number of roles, including compliance officers, legal analysts, contract managers, or regulatory specialists in industries like finance, health care, technology, and manufacturing.

How does an MLS in Business Law compare to an MBA?

The MLS offers specialized legal expertise that's particularly valuable in heavily regulated industries, while the MBA provides the versatile leadership and strategic thinking skills needed for executive roles.