MASTER OFLEGAL STUDIES

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The 2025 guide · 6 min read

Choosing a legal studies program, explained

Whether you're aiming for a paralegal career or a compliance role that rewards legal fluency, the right program depends on your goals, budget, and timeline. Our editors — all practicing or former attorneys — break down what actually matters before you apply.

An online Master of Legal Studies typically runs 12–24 months and rarely requires the LSAT or GRE. Certificates are faster and cheaper; associate and bachelor's degrees suit those starting from scratch.

Written by Susan Buckner, J.D. · Reviewed by Ryan P. Duffy, Esq.

Key takeaways

  • 01Most online MLS programs waive the LSAT and GRE.
  • 02Total tuition ranges from ~$13k to $40k+.
  • 03Certificates are the fastest route into paralegal work.
  • 04Accreditation and concentration matter more than rank.

Sponsored online Master of Legal Studies programs

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Featured partner programs — explore each school and request information directly.

Online Master of Legal Studies

American University Washington College of Law

  • No GRE/LSAT
  • Online
  • Industry concentrations

The online Master of Legal Studies program from American University Washington College of Law is designed for non-lawyers who could benefit from fundamental legal training but do not want to become practicing attorneys. The program offers industry-specific concentrations and certificates in Business, Health Care Compliance, and Technology. Students who choose the Health Care Compliance track may be eligible to earn an additional certificate accredited by the Compliance Certificate Board (CCB). No GRE/LSAT required.

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Online Master of Studies in Law (MSL)

Fordham University School of Law

  • No GRE/LSAT
  • Online
  • As few as 12 months

In as few as 12 months, learn to advocate for integrity at your organization with a flexible, online M.S.L. in Corporate Compliance from Fordham Law School. No GRE or LSAT required. Choose a program track—general, human resources, financial services, or health care—to gain industry-specific knowledge.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

Northeastern University School of Law

  • Online
  • Part-time
  • 5 concentrations

Northeastern University School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program gives non-lawyers the unique opportunity to learn legal concepts without having to obtain a Juris Doctor. The flexible Master of Legal Studies (MLS) online program was created for working professionals, and as a result, can be completed part-time. In addition to a general path of study, the program features five concentration options.

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Online Master of Studies in Law (MSL)

Wake Forest University

  • Online
  • Affordable

Wake Forest University School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) prepares professionals to confidently handle law, risk, and regulatory challenges. With an MLS degree, you can gain all the legal knowledge you need without pursuing a law degree. This affordable program is designed for working professionals who are seeking practical skills that translate directly to highly regulated sectors such as health care, finance, and human resources.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

Washington University in St. Louis

  • Online
  • Top-ranked
  • As few as 12 months

The online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) from WashU Law gives students foundational expertise in U.S. law from a top-ranked law school. Designed for highly regulated industries, including business, health care, compliance and human resources, this program delivers rigorous legal education in a fully online format that can be completed in as little as 12 months.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

University of California Law San Francisco

  • Online or hybrid
  • Part- or full-time

The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) from the University of California Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings) is designed for professionals whose work intersects with the law. Whether you’re looking to advance in your field, transition careers, or seek new credentials, this program helps you make ethical, law-informed decisions without becoming a lawyer. Earn your MLS on your terms: online or hybrid, part time or full time.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

Southern Methodist University (Dedman)

  • Online
  • For working professionals

If you are a non-lawyer who regularly deals with complex legal issues at work and would benefit from specialized legal knowledge, the online Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) from SMU Dedman School of Law is an excellent fit for you. This online M.L.S. was created for professionals at various stages of their careers who would benefit from a working knowledge of U.S. law.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

DePaul University

  • Online
  • Flexible schedule

Taught by experienced faculty, the DePaul Master of Legal Studies offers a curriculum designed to advance your legal skills in your chosen field with the flexibility of online learning. The interactive, collaborative coursework allows students to complete their MLS degree remotely while building a network of peers and strengthening their knowledge of litigation risk, transactional law and compliance issues.

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Online Master of Legal Studies

University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law

  • Online
  • Part-time

The University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies program gives you the legal knowledge to elevate your career without becoming a lawyer. The online, part-time format is tailored to busy professionals who want to advance in their careers or transition to a field that values legal expertise.

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Introductory career guides

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Career Guide

What is a Paralegal?

The role, what a paralegal does, and how to become, be, and succeed in the profession.

Career Guide

How to Become a Paralegal

The steps to become a certified paralegal, plus answers to common questions about the field.

Career Guide

What Does a Paralegal Do?

Day-to-day duties, job specializations, and why employers hire paralegals.

Career Guide

A Day in the Life of a Paralegal

What a typical day looks like, the biggest challenges and rewards, and the skills to excel.

Career Guide

The Paralegal's Career Path

Education and experience requirements, the job outlook, and earnings by field.

Career Guide

How Long Does it Take to Become a Paralegal?

The timeframes and tracks to consider as you launch your paralegal career.

Career Guide

Paralegal Job Outlook 2024

Where demand is heading and how to secure opportunities in an evolving field.

Career Guide

Master of Legal Studies Jobs

Roles an MLS opens up beyond the paralegal track, and where the degree adds value.

Deep dives into paralegal career paths

Corporate →Litigation →Real Estate →Immigration →Nursing →Personal Injury →Family Law →Employment Law →Intellectual Property →Trademark →Criminal Law →Estate Planning →Divorce →Military →Medicine →Freelance →Entry Level →

Educational guides & articles

Programs

A Deep Dive into Paralegal Studies Programs

How paralegal studies programs work and how they can advance your career.

Programs

Choosing the Right Paralegal School

The factors to weigh and what each educational pathway includes.

Programs

Evaluating Paralegal Degree Programs

The degree program options for those interested in paralegal studies.

Programs

Start Your Career with a Paralegal Certificate Online

The benefits of earning your paralegal certificate online and how to choose the right program.

Programs

Paralegal Associate Degree Programs

How these tracks work, with tips for evaluating associate programs in paralegal studies.

Programs

What Is a Paralegal Certificate?

What a certificate is, how it differs from other credentials, and how to choose one.

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