The Students Before Profits Awards recognizes schools that put education before the bottom line. This article ranks the top online master of legal studies programs in the US.
Work that involves the legal system touches many professions beyond the immediate practice of law. Every industry must comply with legal rules, regulations, and statutes. These industries all need professionals who can navigate the law’s complexities. The legal studies programs featured in this ranking can help prepare students for a variety of roles. This ranking will undoubtedly hold programs of interest for those wanting law-related careers.
All of the ranked legal studies programs are available online. This means that prospective students already working full-time can create a schedule that fits their unique needs. Graduates with a Master of Legal Studies degree will be prepared for a range of senior-level positions.
Featured Programs
RELATED: BEST UNDERGRADUATE ONLINE LEGAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAMS
Best Online Master of Legal Studies Methodology
Tuition varies widely among colleges offering online Master in Legal Studies degrees. However, the ranking methodology for this review is simple. The tuition fees listed in this article are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. Note that the costs for out-of-state or online legal studies students may differ. All figures come from NCES College Navigator.
The schools are ordered from highest to lowest scores. All of the legal studies programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards. Each college has been verified as a non-profit institution.
Top Online Master Legal Studies Programs
| School | Graduate Tuition | Score |
| North Carolina Central University | $4,740 | 100 |
| University of Nebraska – Lincoln | $6,138 | 97.5 |
| Texas A&M University – College Station | $6,885 | 95.0 |
| Liberty University | $7,847 | 92.5 |
| University of Arkansas | $7,875 | 90.0 |
| University of Oklahoma | $8,034 | 87.5 |
| University of Illinois – Springfield | $8,375 | 85.0 |
| Purdue University Global | $8,730 | 82.5 |
| Arizona State University | $9,774 | 80.0 |
| Hamline University | $10,120 | 77.5 |
| West Virginia University | $10,332 | 75.0 |
| Grand Canyon University | $10,621 | 72.5 |
| University of Alabama | $10,780 | 70.0 |
| CUNY – John Jay College of Criminal Justice | $11,090 | 67.5 |
| Capitol Technology University | $11,340 | 65.0 |
| Rowan University | $13,169 | 62.5 |
| Lynn University | $13,500 | 60.0 |
| Champlain College | $14,310 | 57.5 |
| Saint Leo University | $15,218 | 55.0 |
| Regent University | $15,590 | 52.5 |
| Loyola University – Chicago | $18,990 | 50.0 |
| Samford University | $20,935 | 47.5 |
| Villanova University | $21,099 | 45.0 |
| Nova Southeastern University | $21,153 | 42.5 |
| Widener University | $25,100 | 40.0 |
| Seton Hall University | $25,218 | 37.5 |
| Northeastern University | $25,801 | 35.0 |
| Western New England University | $26,640 | 32.5 |
| Chaminade University of Honolulu | $27,720 | 30.0 |
| University of Arizona | $30,686 | 27.5 |
Ranking the Best Online Masters in Legal Studies Programs
#1. NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
Durham, North Carolina
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master in Library Science – Law Librarian
NCCU offers an online Master’s in Library Science with a Law Librarian concentration. It is the most affordable master’s in legal studies online program on our list. The program gives students knowledge of the foundations of librarianship and information services. It also focuses on applied knowledge in information systems and research methods. Additionally, the program is accredited by the American Library Association Committee. It takes 36 credit hours to complete and is delivered 100% online. Graduates of this legal studies program pursue careers such as:
- Archives and Records Manager
- Academic Librarian
- Law Librarian
- Special Librarian
- Digital Librarian
- School Media Coordinator
- Public Librarian
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $4,740
Score: 100
RELATED: DOES EARNING A MASTER OF LEGAL STUDIES ALLOW ME TO PRACTICE LAW?
#2. UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA – LINCOLN
Lincoln, Nebraska
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
UNL offers a Master of Legal Studies Degree. The program is jointly administered by the College of Law and the Graduate College and is offered online. It is designed for individuals who want to better understand the law as it affects their non-legal careers or areas of interest. Students can either take classes full or part-time. The 33-credit hour program can be completed in one year if classes are taken full-time. Curriculum course selections may include:
- Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research
- Practicing Law in a Global Legal Environment
- Civil Procedure
- International Trade: Agriculture, Food & Wine
- Intro to Federal Contract Law
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $6,138
Score: 97.5
#3. TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY COLLEGE STATION
College Station, Texas
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
Texas A&M offers an excellent Master of Legal Studies. The program provides rigorous instruction, experiential learning, and practical drafting skills. Students also gain professional and networking opportunities to prepare them for global success. The fully online program gives professionals the flexibility needed to get their Master’s while working in the field.
Graduates will be well-versed in the legal aspects of financial transactions and financial investment. They also learn about portfolio management and financial risk. The one to two-year, 30-credit hour program gives students the option to choose a specialization in:
- Business Law and Compliance
- Cybersecurity Law and Policy
- Energy and Environmental Law
- Energy, Oil, and Gas Law
- Health Law, Policy, and Management
- HR & Employment Law, Policy & Management
- International Tax
- Real Estate & Construction Law, Policy & Management
- Risk Management
- Wealth Management
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $6,885
Score: 95.0
#4. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
Lynchburg, Virginia
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Juris Master
Liberty University’s Law School offers an online Juris Master program. The curriculum focuses on traditional law, skill development, and experiential learning. Offered concentrations include:
- American Legal Studies
- International Legal Studies
- Health Law
Students can also choose a generalist law option for broad studies in law. Graduates gain a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of legal concerns in their sector. The program is 100% online, and courses run for eight weeks. It can be completed in as little as one year. Students may transfer up to 50% of the total degree credits. A few of the legal studies courses may include:
- Introduction to Legal Systems and Research
- Legal Writing and Analysis
- Constitutional Law
- Jurisprudence and Legal History
- Medical Device Regulatory Compliance
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $7,847
Score: 92.5
RELATED: WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER OF LEGAL STUDIES DEGREE?
#5. UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Laws in Agricultural and Food Law
The University of Arkansas offers a Master of Law in Agricultural and Food Law degree. This program builds knowledge of the connections between food and health. Students learn food safety laws, farmed animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. It focuses on several perspectives. This includes the perspectives of the farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers.
Issues of sustainability, food security, and food-diet health connections are all covered. The program integrates the benefits of classroom interaction with the flexibility of online learning. For example, students can participate in on-campus classes live through synchronous sessions. The 24-credit hour program includes courses like:
- Federal Regulation of Food Labeling and Safety
- Selected Issues in Agricultural and Food Law
- Introduction to Agricultural Taxation
- Independent Research in Agricultural and Food Law
- Practicum in Agricultural & Food Law
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $7,875
Score: 90.0
#6. UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
Norman, Oklahoma
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples Law
UO offers a Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples Law. It is designed for non-lawyers seeking an understanding of Federal Indian law. The curriculum is geared toward those working in the Indian Nation, Tribal Government, Tribal Economies, and Social Work.
Graduates will gain the business perspective to apply to economic and professional concerns. They will also become well-versed in Indigenous Peoples Law. The fully online courses can be completed in 15 months and involve 33 credit hours. Featured courses may include:
- History of Federal Indian Law & Policy
- Native American Natural Resources
- Criminal Jurisdiction in Indian Country
- Legal Research in Indian Country
- Civil Regulatory Jurisdiction in Indian Country
- Federal Indian Water Law
- Financial Regulatory Compliance
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $8,034
Score: 87.5
#7. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS SPRINGFIELD
Springfield, Illinois
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Arts in Legal Studies
UIS offers an affordable Master of Arts in Legal Studies. It teaches students what the legal system is and how it works. Students also learn how the justice system interrelates with social change and how it assists people in asserting their rights. Participants will study legal theory and the role of law in American Society.
The program is designed for students pursuing careers where practical knowledge of the law and legal system is required. The curriculum is offered entirely online and gives students the same dynamic experience as on-campus learning. Required program courses include:
- Introduction to the American Political System
- American Law in Comparative Perspective
- LGBTQ Law and Politics
- History of American Law
- Advanced Lawyering Skills
- Mock Trial Competition
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $8,375
Score: 85.0
#8. PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL
West Lafayette, Indiana
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MS in Legal Studies
Purdue Global offers an excellent Master of Science in Legal Studies. Students can select specialized electives to broaden their knowledge in their area of choice. The program is designed for those who want to further their careers by learning about the law, legal language, and processes.
Classes are led by industry professionals in law, social science, and education. Graduates have the foundation for law schools or careers in related fields. Courses are administered in ten-week terms and can be completed in one year. The 55-credit hour curriculum may include courses such as:
- Ethics and the Professional
- Legal Research, Analysis, and Writing
- Jurisprudence and Legal History
- Applied Research in Legal Studies
- Understanding Criminal Law and Responsibility
- Family and the Legal System
- Contracts as Private Law
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $8,730
Score: 82.5
#9. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
ASU offers an online graduate degree in Legal Studies. It is a customizable degree with five different emphasis areas to choose from. They include:
- Sports Law
- Law and Sustainability
- HR and Employment Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- Criminal Law
- Corporate and Healthcare Compliance
The program explores the relationship between law and a wide variety of topics. Students will learn the fundamentals of U.S. law before selecting electives that aid in career advancement. The fully online program comprises 30 credit hours. Each of the ten classes runs for 7.5 weeks. Some of the featured courses may include:
- Administrative Agencies and Regulations
- Fundamentals of Contract Law
- US Law and Legal Analysis
- Criminal Procedure
- Intellectual Property
- Medical Device Regulatory Compliance
- Human Resources Compliance
- Sports Law
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $9,774
Score: 80.0
#10. HAMLINE UNIVERSITY
St. Paul, Minnesota
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master’s Degree in the Study of Law
The College of Liberal Arts at Hamline offers an excellent Master’s in the Study of Law. It combines the training of an ABA-approved paralegal certificate with specific, in-depth study. In addition, students can choose from concentrations in:
- Conflict Resolution
- Litigation Support
- Professional Practice Management
- Social Justice
Graduates gain a solid understanding of how the law and legal system impact their work. Some concentration areas may require on-campus visits for coursework, while others are fully online. The online format allows students to take courses on their own schedule. And this 34-credit program can be completed in as little as one year. Students can concurrently earn a paralegal certificate. Some of the core required courses may include:
- Foundations in Law
- Legal Writing and Research
- Civil Litigation Survey and Procedure
- Transactions and Contracts in Business
- Regulation in America
- Financial Regulatory Compliance
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $10,120
Score: 77.5
RELATED: LEGAL STUDIES DEGREE JOBS
#11. WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
Morgantown, West Virginia
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
A Master of Legal Studies degree is offered at WVU. The program is designed to build a greater public understanding of the law and the United States legal system. It focuses on compliance, regulation, and policy.
Students can choose from three areas of emphasis. They include Healthcare, Justice Systems, and Homeland Security. The program is offered in a fully online format. Thirty credit hours are required to complete the 10-course program. Some of the legal studies courses may include:
- Administrative Legal Process
- Dispute Resolution
- The Legislative Process
- State, Corporate, and Organizational Fraud
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Immigration and Border Security
- International Criminal Law
- International Business Law
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $10,332
Score: 75.0
#12. GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY
Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MS in Criminal Justice with an Emphasis in Legal Studies
GCU offers an application-based Master of Science in Criminal Justice with an Emphasis on Legal Studies. It focuses on building practical skills in crime analysis and strategic planning. In addition, students gain the skills to consult in criminal justice organizations. The curriculum also assesses best practices in legal research and examines current legal issues. And the capstone class focuses on professional portfolio development and a final written proposal.
The online format lets students pursue their education while keeping their current employment. Thirty-eight credits are required for the degree, and students can transfer up to 12. Featured courses include:
- Introduction to Graduate Studies in the Liberal Arts
- Criminal Behavior Analysis
- Exploration of Law and Public Policy
- Ethics and Decision-Making
- Research Methods
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $10,621
Score: 72.5
#13. UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Juris Master in Taxation
U of A offers an online Juris Master in Taxation degree. The program provides sophisticated tax training to non-lawyers who are unable to attend classes on campus. It prepares professionals for careers with personal tax, business tax, or estate planning. The 24-credit-hour program can be completed in as little as one year. Featured courses include:
- Securities Regulation
- Income Taxation of Estates & Trusts
- Mergers & Acquisitions/Corporate Reorganizations
- Business Planning
- Advanced Tax Research
The university also offers an online Master of Laws program in Taxation and another in Business Transactions. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $10,780
Score: 70.0
#14. CUNY – JOHN JAY COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
New York, New York
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MA in Criminal Justice
McKendree University offers a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program. Students choose from five different specializations. They include:
- Criminology and Deviance
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Policing
- Corrections
- Terrorism Studies
The program is designed for students pursuing a career in criminal justice. But it also gives students the tools to continue their education at law schools or at the doctoral level. While taking the required courses for the Master’s degree, students can also earn one of the following certificates:
- Crime Prevention and Analysis
- Criminal Investigation
- Terrorism Studies
- Race and Criminal Justice
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $11,090
Score: 67.5
#15. CAPITOL TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY
Laurel, Maryland
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MBA: Technology Management Law and Policy
Capitol Technology University offers an excellent Master of Business Administration. It includes a specialization option in Technology Management Law and Policy. The program gives students the skills for management and leadership positions. Graduates will also learn to use modern technology to solve corporate difficulties. They are equipped to convey their views through written and spoken presentations.
The program is available 100% online. The flexible schedule allows students to go at their own pace. Curriculum courses may include topics such as:
- UAS Laws, Regulations, and Policy
- Federal Acquisitions & Contracting
- Managerial Economics
- Unmanned Vehicle Theory and Practice
- UAS Management for Managers
- Intellectual Property Law
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $11,340
Score: 65.0
#16. ROWAN UNIVERSITY
Greensboro, New Jersey
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MA in Criminal Justice
Rowan University offers an online MA in Criminal Justice. The program is focused on the growing emphasis on research evidence in the justice system. Students learn how to research and evaluate programs aimed at preventing and controlling crime. And they will gain an understanding of cultural differences and how they can play a role in the way the criminal justice system operates. The curriculum comprises 30 credit hours. It includes required courses like:
- Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
- Contemporary Developments in Theory
- Research Methods
- Law and Society
- Criminal Justice Policy Analysis
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $13,169
Score: 62.5
#17. LYNN UNIVERSITY
Boca Raton, Florida
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MS in Criminal Justice
Lynn University features an online MS in Criminal Justice. It is designed for those wanting a higher-level position within criminal justice organizations. The program examines fundamental principles involved in political terrorism. These range from low-level threats to large-scale acts of violence.
Students gain a broad understanding of the global nature of criminal justice. They learn advanced problem-solving skills in terrorism, theory, crime, and other areas. Thirty-seven credits are required to graduate. Online students can finish the program in as little as one year. Featured courses include:
- Terrorism: Its Effects on Criminal Justice
- Theory and Practice of Corrections
- Ethics in Criminal Justice
- Conflict Resolution in Criminal Justice
- Youth and Delinquency Control
- Public Institutions, Public Policy, and Democracy
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $13,500
Score: 60.0
#18. CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE
Burlington, Vermont
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MBA: Employment Law
Champlain College offers a Master of Business Administration with an Employment Law certificate. Students will learn how to address challenges facing fast-moving, modern enterprises. And they will develop an integrated approach they can immediately apply in the workplace.
The online format easily accommodates busy working professionals. Students can choose a one or two-year accelerated path to completion. The 36-credit hour program may include courses in:
- Employment Law
- The Leadership Ecosystem
- Labor Law
- Employment Discrimination
- Legal Aspects of Human Resources
- Health Care Law
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Human Resources Law
Accreditation: North East Association of Schools and Colleges
Graduate Tuition: $14,310
Score: 57.5
#19. SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
St. Leo, Florida
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MS in Criminal Justice
Saint Leo University features a Master of Science in Criminal Justice. It offers flexible programming to enhance skills for aspiring and active law enforcement professionals. The curriculum focuses on cutting-edge techniques for keeping individuals and communities secure. In addition, students get access to professional development opportunities, hands-on learning, and internships.
Thirty-six credit hours are required for program completion. The fully online format allows students to graduate within one year. There are six specializations to choose from:
- Behavioral Studies
- Corrections
- Criminal Investigations
- Critical Incident Management
- Forensic Science
- Legal Studies
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $15,218
Score: 55.0
#20. REGENT UNIVERSITY
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online MA in Law
Regent University features a Master of Arts in Law. It is designed to expand the skills of legal professionals without requiring a Juris Doctor. The program is taught from a Christian perspective. Graduates can work in a government, corporate, non-profit, or legal environment. And they will have the skills to provide an astute legal perspective to those they lead and serve.
With full-time scheduling, the 32 required credit hours can be completed in as little as one year. There are ten law concentrations to choose from. They include:
- Advanced Paralegal Studies
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Cybersecurity Law
- General Legal Studies
- Healthcare Law
- Human Resources Law
- Human Rights & Rule of Law
- Immigration Law
- International Business Transactions
- National Security
- Non-profit Organization Law
- Regulatory Compliance
Regent also offers an online MA in Government. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $15,590
Score: 52.5
#21. LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO
Chicago, Illinois
Master of Legal Studies Online Programs:
Online Master of Jurisprudence in Business Law and Compliance
Online Master of Law in Business and Compliance
Loyola’s School of Law offers two Master’s level legal studies online programs. They include:
- Master of Jurisprudence in Business Law and Compliance
- Master of Laws in Business and Compliance
The Masters of Jurisprudence in Business Law & Compliance gives students expertise in compliance and business legal regulations. The program focuses on practical skills for developing and maintaining regulatory compliance programs. The degree is a valuable asset for professionals who seek a greater understanding of the law but do not plan to practice law.
The Master of Laws in Business Law is designed for attorneys who want expertise in transactional law and compliance. The program focuses on practical skills and in-depth training in compliance. Graduates learn about regulatory and transactional practice. This 24-credit degree program can be completed exclusively online. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $18,990
Score: 50.0
RELATED: BEST JD MBA PROGRAMS
#22. SAMFORD UNIVERSITY
Birmingham, Alabama
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Studies in Law
The Master of Studies in Law program is offered by Cumberland School of Law. The program is designed for non-lawyers wanting advancement in their current field. However, practicing attorneys may pursue the degree to complement their current practice or open doors to a new practice area.
Thirty-four credits are required for completion, and the program runs for two years. Students can choose from one of four concentrations. They can also design a personalized course of study by choosing from a variety of electives through the general option. Concentration options include:
- Financial Services Regulatory Compliance
- Health Law and Policy
- Higher Education Law and Compliance
- Legal Project Management.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $20,935
Score: 47.5
#23. VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY
Villanova, Pennsylvania
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Laws in Taxation
Villanova features an online Master of Laws in Taxation. The curriculum provides an in-depth investigation of taxes. And it will broaden and improve your grasp of tax law and procedure. Students gain practical taxation experience through hands-on learning opportunities. And they will acquire advanced knowledge and skills in tax law, taxation-based accounting, and business.
All courses are online and follow an eight-week session format. This allows students to concentrate on one course at a time while still finishing the degree in under two years. Students have the option to complete the program in a hybrid format as well. Featured courses included in the 24-credit degree are:
- Professional Practice and Tax Procedure
- Taxation of Corporations and Shareholders
- Partnership Taxation
- Neg. & Draft. Partnership Ags.
- Principles of Wealth Management
- Public Charities: Law & Compliance
- Qual Pen & Prof Share Plans
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $21,099
Score: 45.0
#24. NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Master of Legal Studies Programs:
Online MS in Education Law
Online MS in Employment Law
Online MS in Health Law
Online MS in Law and Policy
NSU offers four online legal studies programs. They include Education Law, Employment Law, Health Law, and Law and Policy. These programs give professionals in education, business, and health the knowledge of how their profession intersects with the law.
Graduates will have the skills to communicate effectively on various issues related to their professions. And they will understand how to research legal issues and apply this knowledge to their chosen professions. The program comprises 32 credits and can be finished in two years. A fast-track option is also available. This allows students to complete the degree in one year. Featured courses include:
- Legal Research Methods and Reasoning
- Federal Privacy Law
- Ethical Issues in Education Law
- Federal Legislation in Education
- Risk Management Law
- Accreditation and Licensing
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Graduate Tuition: $21,153
Score: 42.5
#25. WIDENER UNIVERSITY
Chester, Pennsylvania
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Criminal Justice
Widener University offers a Master of Criminal Justice. It is designed to give students a strategic advantage in pursuing graduate education in compliance and business. The program provides rigorous training in legal analysis and regulatory compliance. These skills can be applied in a corporate, business, non-profit, or government environment.
This degree lays the groundwork for criminological theory and research methodologies. Students develop business acumen at the administrative level. Two specializations are available: White Collar Crime and Public Administration. The average completion time for the program is two years. The 32-credit curriculum includes courses such as:
- Seminar in Law and Criminal Justice
- Research Methods and Quantitative Applications in Criminal Justice
- Nature of Crime and Delinquency
- Organizational Behavior in Criminal Justice
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $25,100
Score: 40.0
RELATED: WHAT CAREERS ARE AVAILABLE WITH A JD/MBA?
#26. SETON HALL UNIVERSITY
South Orange, New Jersey
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Laws
Seton Hall University features a Master of Law degree. Students can choose from three concentrations:
- Financial Services Compliance
- Health Law
- Intellectual Property
This program is ideal for those who cannot attend on-site classes due to demanding work and personal lives. Students create their own schedules and complete coursework wherever it is most convenient. The 24-credit program includes courses such as:
- Introduction to Corporate Finance
- Securities Regulation and Compliance
- Compliance Issues for Healthcare Providers
- The Law of Patient Care
- Copyright Law
- Patent Law
- Trademark and Unfair Competition
- Art Law
Seton Hall University also offers an online Master of Legal Studies degree program. Financial aid is available.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $25,218
Score: 37.5
#27. NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Boston, Massachusetts
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
Northeastern University Law School offers a Master of Legal Studies. It is intended for those looking for practical legal knowledge but who do not want to practice law. Students in the program have the unique chance to master legal ideas and learn about legal systems without needing to receive a Juris Doctor. Students can choose from five concentrations:
- Business Law
- Health Law
- Human Resource Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- Public Law and Policy
Graduates become experts in their industry’s legal issues. The flexibility of the online format allows working students to take classes part-time. Some of the elective courses may include:
- Healthcare Regulation and Compliance
- Financial Transaction
- Regulation and Global Business Strategies
- Intellectual Property Survey
- Special Topics: Employee Rights and Employer Obligations
- Patient Records, Privacy, and Security
- Human Resources Compliance
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Graduate Tuition: $25,801
Score: 35.0
#28. WESTERN NEW ENGLAND UNIVERSITY
Springfield, Massachusetts
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Laws in Elder Law and Estate Planning
WNEU offers the only live, interactive, online Master of Laws in Elder Law and Estate Planning in the United States. The program is accredited by the ABA. Because coursework is synchronous, students get the closest education possible to being in the classroom in person.
Students in this program learn how to advocate for seniors and their families. Graduates have the in-depth knowledge to differentiate their practice and educate their customers. For the final project, students produce a comprehensive plan and their own set of planning papers. The program comprises 24 credit hours and can be taken full or part-time. It can be finished in as little as one year. Courses for this online legal studies degree cover legal concepts like:
- Federal Income Tax of Estates & Trusts
- Fiduciary Administration
- Business Succession
- Planning
- Probate Litigation
- Elder Law
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Graduate Tuition: $26,640
Score: 32.5
#29. CHAMINADE UNIVERSITY OF HONOLULU
Honolulu, Hawaii
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Studies
CUU offers a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Studies. The program provides a foundation for topics confronting the criminal justice system. Students will be prepared for advanced roles in local, state, federal, and private organizations. And graduates will gain skills to make significant contributions to benefit their community. The program is available 100% online and can be completed in as few as twelve months. The 30-credit-hour curriculum includes core courses in legal concepts such as:
- Constitutional Law & Civil Rights
- Criminology
- Forensic Psychology
- Contemporary Issues in Criminal Law
- Ethics in Criminal Justice & Public Administration
- Research Methods & Data Analysis
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Graduate Tuition: $27,720
Score: 30.0
RELATED: TOP 30 AFFORDABLE MASTER’S IN BUSINESS LAW PROGRAMS
#30. UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
Tuscon, Arizona
Master of Legal Studies Program: Online Master of Legal Studies
An excellent Master of Legal Studies is offered at the University of Arizona. The program is designed to help students advance their career and development prospects. Graduates gain the skills to understand laws and regulations without needing a law license. There are eleven concentrations to choose from. They include:
- Compliance and Legal Risk Management
- Criminal Law and Policy
- Environmental Law and Policy
- Family and Juvenile Law
- Health Law and Policy
- Human Rights
- Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy
- Intellectual Property
- International Trade and Business Law
- Mining Law and Policy
- Tax Law and Policy
The online format allows students the flexibility to get a degree while working in the field. The program comprises 30 credit hours and can be completed in as little as one year. Financial aid is available for this legal studies master’s online.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Graduate Tuition: $30,686
Score: 27.5
Do I Need a Legal Studies Bachelor’s Degree To Be Accepted Into a Master’s Program?
All colleges have different admission requirements. You will need a bachelor’s degree to go to graduate school. But you do not necessarily need a legal studies undergraduate degree to pursue a graduate program in the legal field. However, a bachelor’s degree in a related field can be helpful. For example, some law-related bachelor’s degree programs include:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology
- Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Assistant Studies
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Law
- Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
- Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Justice
- Bachelor’s Degree in Jurisprudence
- Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science
- Bachelor’s Degree in Government
Can an Online Master’s in Legal Studies Pave The Way to Law School?
Students from nearly every academic major are admitted to law schools. However, an online master’s of legal studies is not intended for students who plan to attend law school. Instead, these programs can broaden your understanding of legal principles and the law. They can help you advance in law-related or highly regulated fields. These can include banking, healthcare, insurance, finance, and more.
At law schools, students pursue a Juris Doctor degree. The JD is the degree required to become a practicing attorney. This degree prepares students to pass the bar exam and begin practicing law. The programs on our list—including the Juris Master’s programs—teach legal concepts that can be useful in almost any field. However, such online legal studies master’s degree programs won’t prepare you for law school.
This concludes our ranking of the best masters of legal studies programs at non-profit colleges.
NPCO staff
