From working in criminal law to environmental law, there’s no shortage of job opportunities for legal experts. Today, professionals with law degrees are highly sought after in several industries. If you’re curious about how to obtain a master of legal studies (MLS), then this guide will help you. From the best legal studies programs to expected coursework, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting your master of law studies online.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, legal occupations are projected to grow seven percent by 2028. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations and will result in about 93,300 new jobs. So, if you’re interested in the wealth of opportunities and benefits offered by an online master of legal studies, read on.
What MLS Program Coursework Can I Expect?
Master’s degree programs in legal studies typically deliver an interdisciplinary curriculum covering the theoretical and practical implications of law in the US legal system. Students learn to navigate complex concepts and practices related to law enforcement, the judicial process, and governmental standards and regulations. While exact coursework will differ depending on your program and concentration, some of the common elements of legal studies curriculum may include:
- Legal principles as they apply in social, economic, and political areas
- Legal ethics as they relate to the application of law and policy administration
- Civil, criminal, and administrative legal procedures
- Negotiation strategies for contracts and disputes
- Legal concentration electives such as criminal law, healthcare compliance, higher education, etc.
Furthermore, a typical MLS program offers several interesting concentrations graduate students can choose from, including:
- Criminal Law
- Human Rights
- International Law
- Healthcare Law
- Sports Law
Best MLS Programs Available
We here at CareerKarma are determined to give you a jumpstart to your professional journey. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best MLS degree programs available based on factors such as flexibility, reputation, financial aid, and accreditation.
The University of Illinois at Springfield (Springfield, IL)
Tuition: $362/credit
Credit Requirements: 40 credits
Program Length: 1 year
Format: 100% online; synchronous and asynchronous
Starting off our list is the excellent MLS degree program at UIS. Incorporating both asynchronous and synchronous formats, this program is flexibly designed to work with various work schedules and time zones. Students can tailor their degrees according to their interests whilst working directly with teachers, due to the small classrooms which facilitate efficient learning.
Courses include legal research and citation, public advocacy, and theories of justice, with an emphasis on analytical thinking, research, and writing skills. At the end of each year, students may either complete a thesis or graduate seminar and final paper.
Prerequisites: Applicants should hold a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. The university also requires a 350- to 750-word personal statement.
West Virginia University (Morgantown, WV)
Tuition: $633/credit
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program Length: 18 months
Format: 100% online; synchronous and asynchronous
A public university with high research activity, WVU also consists of a great MLS degree program. West Virginia University enrolls 26,800 students at its flagship Morgantown campus each year. This diverse and all-encompassing program is designed for professionals practicing in fields such as business, criminal justice, and several others.
WVU’s master of law studies program offers three concentrations that students can choose from: healthcare, justice systems, and homeland security. While coursework will differ depending on each concentration, the required courses for all students include dispute resolution, the legislative process, and researching the law. Students must also complete a final capstone which requires research and completion of a scholarly project.
Prerequisites: Applicants should hold a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA and submit GRE/GMAT/LSAT scores (unless exempt). The school also requires a resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation.
University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ)
Tuition: $650/credit
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program Length: 1 year
Format: 100% online; asynchronous
Another public research institution, the University of Arizona is famous for its online programs such as its MLS degree program. Over 4,000 of 46,000 online students enroll in UA’s flexible online courses, and there are no travel or residency requirements. Faculty members are internationally known for their work, whether it’s producing provocative new scholarship or influencing the practice of law.
Students can select a general studies track or one of 11 concentrations, including family and juvenile law, health law and policy, and human rights. With all courses utilizing adaptable asynchronous scheduling, this program will enhance your legal knowledge and critical-thinking skills. Graduates can go on to pursue careers in government, business, social services, education, and nonprofit work.
Prerequisites: Prospective students should possess a minimum 3.0 GPA. UA requires a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume/CV.
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Saint Leo University (Saint Leo, FL)
Tuition: $590/credit
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Program Length: 2 years
Format: 100% online; asynchronous
Famous for being the oldest Catholic college in Florida, more than 13,000 students from all around the world enroll on campus and online each year at SLU. This institution’s great online Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice offers eight-week courses and six concentration options, including legal studies. This program offers students a well-rounded understanding of legal procedures and judicial operations within the civil and criminal domain.
Known across Florida and among national law enforcement, program director Dr Diemer has over 30 years of investigative experience. This 36-credit program provides students with the study of ethical and legal issues, public policy-making, and applied leadership. Furthermore, learners can choose from 41 elective courses. As part of a final capstone project, students are given the exciting task of launching a program initiative related to criminal justice administration.
Prerequisites: Candidates require a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Individuals with a GPA below 3.0 must provide a statement of professional goals. An $80 application fee applies.
Webster University (Saint Louis, MO)
Tuition: $780/credit
Credit Requirements: 39 credits
Program Length: 1-2 years
Format: 100% online; asynchronous
A nonprofit, private institution with dozens of satellite locations, WU features a popular Master of Arts in Legal Studies program. The featured coursework is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the legal environment in which individuals, businesses and the judiciary operate.
Including flexible, asynchronous courses on legal research, ethics, and American Constitutional law, this is a great fit for anyone looking to build their legal knowledge. After earning their MLS, students will be able to apply their learned skills in legal practice. No internships or on-campus visits are required to graduate, and students can also apply their earned credits to a concurrent certificate in paralegal studies.
Prerequisites: The university seeks graduate school applicants with a bachelor’s degree and minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Applicants must provide official transcripts.
Conclusion
Though you won’t be able to represent clients as an attorney (law school is required for that), a master of law studies will offer several more opportunities than a bachelor’s degree. With an MLS, you will not only have a better chance in the job market, but you’ll also be eligible for much better-paying jobs. You’ll be qualified to work in a wide variety of settings, from local government to law enforcement to your own private practice.
Moreover, graduate students can earn roles as compliance officers, human resources specialists, court employees, arbitrators, or even small business owners. Whether you need a better foundation for working with laws and regulations or wish to improve your career prospects by obtaining legal and critical thinking skills, the MLS may be your best bet.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
