Best Online Master of Legal Studies Programs
As a relative newcomer to the world of graduate education, master of legal studies (MLS) degrees mainly appeal to learners in non-attorney career tracks that still require advanced law knowledge. Examples include compliance officers, human resources directors, contract negotiators, and business operations specialists.
Schools offer MLS programs in face-to-face, online, and blended formats. Explore the features of MLS degrees and connect with the best master of legal studies programs using this degree guide and ranking.
15 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies Programs
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in legal studies at the University of Southern California, located in Los Angeles, offers high academic quality. The master of studies in law program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree often helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in legal studies. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a background in law may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of studies in law
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in legal studies can earn their degree from Florida State University, located in Tallahassee. The online juris master program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on law. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program encourages learners to gain experience in legal studies before applying.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Florida State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Online juris master program
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116
- In-State$4,640
- Out-of-state$19,084
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$24,116
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled42,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Washington University in St. Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis hosts a top-ranked master's in legal studies program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of legal studies program. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to the law. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in legal studies typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The legal studies program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Washington University in St. Louis at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 14%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Online master of legal studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $54,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,250
- In-State$54,250
- Out-of-state$54,250
- In-State$54,250
- Out-of-state$54,250
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate14%
- Students Enrolled16,191
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in College Station, Texas A&M University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online legal studies program. The master's in cybersecurity law and policy program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of law and policy. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in legal studies or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master's in cybersecurity law and policy
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
- In-State$7,941
- Out-of-state$34,190
- In-State$6,677
- Out-of-state$18,700
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled68,726
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Wake Forest University
- Winston-Salem, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students interested in a master's in legal studies can earn their degree from Wake Forest University, located in Winston-Salem. The master's in business law and compliance program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the legal field. With a master's degree, candidates may also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes legal theory and practice. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program encourages learners to gain experience in legal studies before applying.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Wake Forest University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 30%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master's in business law and compliance
Graduate Tuition In State: $38,650
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $38,650
- In-State$54,430
- Out-of-state$54,430
- In-State$38,650
- Out-of-state$38,650
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate30%
- Students Enrolled8,495
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment7%
- AccreditationYes
George Washington University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in the District of Columbia, George Washington University offers an online master's in legal studies. The master of studies in law for government procurement law program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches to legal professions. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in legal studies.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
George Washington University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 41%
Total Online Master's Programs: 50
Program Name: Master of studies in law for government procurement law
Graduate Tuition In State: $31,770
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $31,770
- In-State$54,453
- Out-of-state$54,453
- In-State$31,770
- Out-of-state$31,770
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled27,814
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Pepperdine University
- Malibu, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in legal studies at Pepperdine University, located in Malibu, offers high academic quality. The master of legal studies program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum covers legal methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The legal studies program recommends that applicants bring a background in law or a related field.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities provide professional networking opportunities.
Pepperdine University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 32%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of legal studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $34,900
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $34,900
- In-State$55,640
- Out-of-state$55,640
- In-State$34,900
- Out-of-state$34,900
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate32%
- Students Enrolled8,824
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in legal studies program at Arizona State University, located in Scottsdale, offers a flexible online format. The online master of legal studies program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in legal studies. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The legal studies master's program builds on prior experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 64%
Total Online Master's Programs: 48
Program Name: Online master of legal studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,384
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,384
- In-State$8,867
- Out-of-state$19,282
- In-State$6,384
- Out-of-state$6,384
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled45,073
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Samford University
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in legal studies degree at Samford University, located in Birmingham, Alabama, prioritizes flexibility. The master of studies in law program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in law. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in legal studies or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Samford University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of studies in law
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,754
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,754
- In-State$32,000
- Out-of-state$32,000
- In-State$17,754
- Out-of-state$17,754
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled5,692
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Liberty University, located in Lynchburg, offers a flexible online master's in legal studies. The juris master program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the legal field and related industries. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on the law. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a degree in legal studies or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Juris master online degree
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in legal studies program, offered by the University of Illinois at Springfield, ranks as a top program in the field. The MA in legal studies program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on the law. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with prior experience in legal studies or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
University of Illinois at Springfield at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Legal studies online, MA
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,270
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,240
- In-State$9,520
- Out-of-state$15,948
- In-State$8,270
- Out-of-state$15,240
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled4,275
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, WV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in legal studies at West Virginia University, located in Morgantown, offers high academic quality. The MLS program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on legal studies. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in legal studies or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
West Virginia University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Legal studies MLS
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,134
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,154
- In-State$8,976
- Out-of-state$25,320
- In-State$10,134
- Out-of-state$26,154
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled26,839
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Hamline University
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Hamline University hosts a top-ranked master's in legal studies program. The master in the study of law program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the legal field. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in legal studies may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Hamline University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master in the study of law
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,596
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,596
- In-State$41,734
- Out-of-state$41,734
- In-State$9,596
- Out-of-state$9,596
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled3,404
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University offers an online master's in legal studies. The master of legal studies program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in law. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in legal studies may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Online master of legal studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
- In-State$52,146
- Out-of-state$52,146
- In-State$35,181
- Out-of-state$35,181
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled24,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Virginia Beach, Regent University hosts a top-ranked master's in legal studies program. The MA in law program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores legal research and methodologies. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The program encourages learners to gain experience in legal studies before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. Graduate students build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Regent University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 37
Program Name: MA in law
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,552
- In-State$17,220
- Out-of-state$17,220
- In-State$15,552
- Out-of-state$15,552
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled10,365
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
What Is a Master’s in Legal Studies?
Schools typically design their MLS programs to equip non-lawyers with advanced law knowledge. They mainly appeal to people whose career aspirations or job duties involve issues like regulatory compliance, administration, or negotiation. MLS degrees may also be useful for professionals who interact with lawyers and other legal professionals.
MLS programs are usually offered through law schools or colleges of law within larger institutions. They sometimes go by alternate names, including:
- Master of science (MS) or master of arts (MA) in law or legal studies
- Master of studies in law (MSL)
- Juris master or master of jurisprudence (MJ)
Despite differences in naming conventions, these degrees cover similar subject matter and generally lead to comparable careers.
However, there may be slight variations in focus, depending on the school. For instance, some MJ programs place more emphasis on legal theory and the philosophical underpinnings of legal systems. MLS, MS, and MA programs more directly cover legal knowledge and its practical applications.
Master of Legal Studies vs. Juris Doctor vs. Master of Laws
MLS
- Designed for professionals in non-lawyer career tracks
- Takes 1-2 years
- Concentrations may focus on specific industries, policy areas, or non-attorney career tracks
- Face-to-face, online, and hybrid formats are widely available
JD
- Designed for aspiring lawyers preparing for state bar examinations
- Takes 3 years (full time)
- Concentrations cover specific legal practice areas, such as contract law, family law, or criminal law
- ABA-accredited online JD programs are relatively rare
LL.M.
- Intended for JD degree-holders and practicing lawyers seeking specialized credentials
- Takes 1-2 years
- May be an option for internationally trained lawyers seeking US qualifications
- Some law schools offer dual-degree programs leading to both JD and LL.M. credentials
Why Earn Your Master’s in Legal Studies Online
The benefits of online learning allow you to:
- Take advantage of scheduling flexibility to balance your schooling with full-time employment and other commitments
- Save on relocation, commuting, and parking costs. Some schools also offer discounted tuition rates to their fully online students
- Review complex, technical, and challenging concepts with greater ease and effectiveness
As an online student, you aren’t limited by geography. Thus, you can access a wider selection of schools and specialization options than you could if you committed to a campus-based program.
Master of Legal Studies Degree Concentrations
The best master of legal studies programs offer concentrations in particular law subjects. These specializations allow students to tailor programs to their career goals and interests. Learn more about common MLS concentrations below.
Healthcare Regulations
An MLS in healthcare regulations focuses on complex legal topics in the medical industry. This degree can help prepare students for non-lawyer, legal-related jobs in healthcare.
Entrepreneurship
An MLS entrepreneurship program explores laws and regulations in the business sector, emphasizing their application to individuals looking to launch new enterprises. Graduates with entrepreneurship MLS degrees can use their knowledge to launch their own businesses or advise other companies.
Criminal Law
A master of legal studies with a concentration in criminal law can prepare students for various criminal justice careers. A typical curriculum provides expertise in criminal law-related topics like evidence, criminal justice theory, and criminal procedure.
Environmental Compliance
This degree can provide an understanding of the ins and outs of environmental law and regulations. Students explore energy law, dispute resolution, and property law and transactions.
Sports Management
A sports management MLS degree typically includes classes like gaming law, collegiate athletics policy, and Title IX gender equity in sports. Graduates can apply for jobs in the sports law field.
Family Law
Family law master of legal studies programs can develop expertise in the legal system and the law as it relates to family and juvenile issues. Students can pursue jobs in family and divorce mediation, juvenile advocacy, and social work.
Choosing the Best Master of Legal Studies Program
As you research available master of legal studies degrees, make sure that your prospective school and program meet the following criteria:
School is accredited.
The best master of legal studies programs are offered by schools with recognized accreditation credentials. If you’re unsure about a school’s accreditation status, research it through the Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
As of 2024, the American Bar Association (ABA) only accredits JD programs. However, the ABA does formally approve some MLS programs.
Curriculum aligns with your career goals.
Many MLS programs encourage or require students to select concentrations. If you’re interested in a specific legal area, search for a matching specialization.
If your preferred school only offers a generalist curriculum, make sure the topics you study reflect your learning interests and career goals. Pay particular attention to required and elective courses.
Delivery format fits your needs.
Research the delivery format of each prospective program. First, consider your preference for online, campus-based, or hybrid learning. If you’re planning to study partially or entirely online, look at coursework modalities. Asynchronous courses are accessible on a 24/7/365 basis, while synchronous courses meet at specific times.
Program cost is within budget.
MLS program costs vary, sometimes widely. School prestige is a major factor, as is the school type: Public institutions tend to cost less than private schools. If you need help meeting your schooling costs, start by seeking scholarships, fellowships, and grants. Online learning also makes it easier to work while you’re in school, which may also help you manage costs.
Try to use student loans only as a last resort. They create long-term debt, which can hamper your personal finances.
Careers for Legal Studies Graduates
An online master’s in legal studies will not qualify you to practice as a lawyer, but with this degree, you can pursue work in compliance, consulting, and administration. We cover several common careers for MLS graduates below.
Arbitrator
- Annual Median Salary (May 2023): $71,540
- Job Growth (2022-32): +5%
Arbitrators help negotiate conflicts among parties represented in legal matters. In some cases, these professionals can assist parties in mediating their cases outside the courtroom. A deep understanding of the law ensures that potential settlements meet legal compliance standards.
Compliance Officer
- Annual Median Salary (May 2023): $75,670
- Job Growth (2022-32): +5%
A compliance officer typically works for one organization to oversee that it conforms to legal requirements, such as employee contracts and local regulations. These professionals also work closely with other individuals and teams to reduce organizational risk.
Fraud Examiner
- Annual Median Salary (May 2023): $75,050
- Job Growth (2022-32): -3%
Fraud examiners can work within companies or as third-party examiners to evaluate possible fraudulent behavior. These professionals, commonly employed by the insurance and financial industries, must possess a strong understanding of law-abiding financial practices.
Human Resources Manager
- Annual Median Salary (May 2023): $136,350
- Job Growth (2022-32): +5%
Human resources managers handle employee benefits, resolve problems in the workplace, and oversee companies’ management processes. A legal studies degree can help professionals better understand employee and benefits laws necessary for this role.
Paralegal / Legal Assistant
- Annual Median Salary (May 2023): $60,970
- Job Growth (2022-32): +4%
Paralegals and legal assistants help lawyers with various tasks, including organizing paperwork, gathering evidence, and reviewing facts relating to legal cases. Although an associate degree is usually required, continued education in legal studies may help paralegals become more competitive in the job market and increase their pay.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Master of Legal Studies Programs
MLS programs develop your legal knowledge and may enhance your employability — especially if you pair this program with another advanced or professional degree. Ultimately, you’ll have to evaluate whether a particular program positions you for a positive long-term return on investment. To start, compare program costs against your post-graduation salary projections.
