Best Online Master's in Legal Studies
Updated December 12, 2023
Edited by
Not everyone needs to go to law school or become a lawyer to get a job in the legal realm. Potential legal careers for non-lawyers include legal assistants and paralegals, contract administrators, human resources managers or directors, and fraud examiners.
Students can get an in-depth understanding of the law by earning an online master's in legal studies. These programs explore legal communication, legal research, and a foundation in legal theory and practice. Some programs include concentrations in specific parts of the law, like health law, business law, and intellectual property law.
A master of legal studies degree can prepare graduates for various in-demand careers in the legal field and beyond. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual salary for workers in legal occupations was $95,170 in May 2022, significantly higher than the median for all workers of $46,310.
Earning a master's in legal studies online can offer an ideal pathway for students with full-time jobs or other responsibilities. Use this guide to learn what to expect from the top master's in legal studies programs, along with potential opportunities for graduates.
Are Legal Studies Degrees Designed for Non-Lawyers?
A master's degree in legal studies prepares students to pursue various professional roles in the public and private sectors. Many law schools offer master's programs in legal studies for non-lawyers seeking an advanced understanding of the laws, regulations, and legal procedures that affect businesses and organizations.
A legal studies degree does not qualify graduates to represent clients or practice as attorneys. Instead, graduates can apply their legal expertise as realtors, human resources specialists, court employees, and small business owners, among other roles.
The BLS projects that several careers for legal studies graduates will keep pace with or exceed projections for all occupations from 2022-2032. For instance, jobs for real estate brokers are projected to grow by 3%, and mediators received an employment growth projection of 5%.
Featured Online Legal Studies Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Is an Online Master's in Legal Studies Degree?
Online master's in legal studies programs allow students to develop expertise in the law without the goal of working as lawyers after graduation. A typical program covers foundational aspects of the legal system, like property law, contracts, and legal research.
Some legal studies master's programs focus on specific areas of the law, like business law, human resources law, or public law and policy. Students pursuing this degree can develop communication, analytical, and research skills. It typically takes 1-2 years of full-time study to complete an online master's in legal studies.
Compared to attending law school and earning a three-year Juris Doctor (JD) degree — a requirement for attorneys — earning a master's in legal studies is typically less difficult and takes less time.
Unlike law school, applicants do not take the LSAT for admission into master's in legal studies programs. Also, JD programs go deeper into the law and legal system than master's degrees in legal studies.
Online Master's in Legal Studies Programs
The best master of legal studies online programs may offer concentrations in particular areas of the law. These specializations allow students to tailor programs to their career goals and interests. Below, we describe different types of master's in legal studies degrees and what to expect from them.
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MLS 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. -
MLS Entrepreneurship
An MLS entrepreneurship program explores laws and regulations in the business field, emphasizing their application to entrepreneurs. Graduates with entrepreneurship MLS degrees can use their knowledge to launch their own enterprises or advise other businesses. -
MLS 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. -
MLS 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. -
MLS Sports Management
A sports management MLS degree 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. -
MLS 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.
The Best Online Master's in Legal Studies Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#2 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#3 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Washington University in St. Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#4 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#5 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#6 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
George Washington University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#7 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#8 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#9 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Samford University
Birmingham, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#10 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#11 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#12 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#13 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Hamline University
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#14 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
#15 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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
Methodology / How We Rank Schools
These rankings include sponsored results from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
Featured Online Legal Studies Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How to Choose an Online Program
Master of legal studies online programs vary in length, content, and outcomes. Consider several factors when researching prospective online master of legal studies programs, including tuition costs, on-campus requirements, and course delivery format. Take stock of your availability and bandwidth to ensure that a program can fit your schedule.
Additionally, accreditation is a key consideration when researching online MLS degrees. Students interested in pursuing more education after graduation may only be able to transfer credits from schools with institutional accreditation.
Some employers also specifically look for candidates who have completed programs at accredited institutions. Consider contacting an enrollment advisor for programs of interest before applying to compare your options.
Careers in Law and Legal Studies
While an online master's in legal studies degree does not qualify individuals to practice as lawyers, graduates can still pursue law school to gain the credentials to work as attorneys. They can also work in areas like compliance, consulting, and administration. We cover several common careers for graduates below.
Arbitrator
Annual Median Salary (May 2022): $64,030
Arbitrators help negotiate conflicts among parties represented in legal matters. In some cases, arbitrators can assist the parties in mediating their cases outside the courtroom. A deep understanding of the law ensures that each party and potential settlements adhere to legal compliance.
Compliance Officer
Annual Median Salary (May 2022): $71,690
A compliance officer typically works for one organization to oversee its compliance with 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 2022): $72,040
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 2022): $130,000
Human resources managers manage 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.
Legal Assistant
Annual Median Salary (May 2022): $59,200
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 legal assistants become more competitive in the job market and increase their pay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Legal Studies
How long does it take to complete a master's in legal studies program?
Program length varies by school and attendance, but a typical master's in legal studies degree takes 1-2 years for full-time students to complete.
How much do you make as a lawyer?
Lawyers earned a median annual salary of $135,740 as of May 2022, according to the BLS. The median yearly wage for legal occupations as a whole was $95,170 in the same period.
What can I do with a master's in legal studies?
You cannot become a lawyer with a master's in legal studies. However, an MLS can help you advance your career working with legal professionals or in other industries that require intricate knowledge of legal processes and regulations, including finance and health care.
What is a lawyer?
Lawyers, also known as attorneys, handle various legal responsibilities, including legal research and analysis, representing clients on legal issues, and preparing legal documents. Lawyers usually need to earn a Juris Doctor degree to legally practice in most states.
What is a master's in legal studies?
A master's in legal studies is a graduate degree for people who want advanced expertise in the law and legal processes but do not want to attend law school or become lawyers. A typical MLS curriculum may cover similar ground to the first year of law school.
Note: All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team.
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