Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Legal Studies in Financial Services

The financial services industry is a vital and heavily regulated sector of the global economy. Professionals in this field must understand and comply with legal and regulatory requirements to improve individual, organizational, and global financial outcomes. The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Financial Services at Wake Forest University School of Law is designed to prepare professionals for success in this highly regulated environment.

Program Overview

The online Master of Legal Studies in Financial Services provides practical legal knowledge and skills, enabling compliance, risk management, operations, and financial advisement professionals to make informed decisions, reduce legal exposure, and engage effectively with attorneys and regulators. This track is taught by experienced law school faculty and finance industry practitioners.

Course Structure

The 30-credit MLS in Financial Services includes:

• 13.5 credits in the required core curriculum
• 10.5+ credits in Financial Services track courses
• Up to 6 credits from any other electives across tracks

Target Audience

The Financial Services track supports a variety of finance, insurance, and compliance professionals, including:

• Financial managers & advisors
• Financial analysts
• Bankers
• Compliance officers
• Risk officers
• Insurance professionals
• Loan officers
• Accountants
• Auditors

Industry Market Insights

The financial services industry is a significant portion of the global economy, with a market size of over $33.54 trillion, comprising about 31% of the world's economy. The median annual wage for professionals in the financial services sector is double the median annual wage for all occupations. Job growth in the financial services sector is expected to grow more than 5% over the next 10 years.

Career Opportunities

A Master of Legal Studies in Financial Services provides professionals with a better understanding of complex financial regulations, preparing them to manage compliance and regulations at banks, investment firms, and fintech companies. This degree is particularly valuable for professionals who want deep legal expertise in finance without becoming practicing attorneys. Career opportunities include roles in government agencies, corporate legal departments, and consulting firms that specialize in financial services regulation and risk management.

Comparison to MBA in Finance

An MLS in Financial Services focuses specifically on the complex legal and regulatory framework governing the financial industry, including securities law, banking regulations, compliance requirements, and financial crimes prevention. In contrast, an MBA in Finance emphasizes financial analysis, investment strategies, corporate finance, and general business management skills. While both degrees are valuable in the financial sector, the MLS provides deep regulatory expertise essential for navigating the heavily regulated financial services landscape, while the MBA offers the analytical and strategic skills needed for financial decision-making and leadership roles.

Program Benefits

The Master of Legal Studies in Financial Services at Wake Forest University School of Law offers a unique combination of practical legal knowledge and skills, taught by experienced faculty and industry practitioners. The program is designed to provide professionals with a solid foundation in the laws and regulations that govern financial institutions and markets, enabling them to make informed decisions, reduce legal exposure, and engage effectively with attorneys and regulators.