Best Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Online Programs 2024

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.
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Updated on October 8, 2024
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Legal knowledge can advance your career in diverse industries. Learn about the best online master’s in legal studies programs.
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Best Online Masters Degree Programs in Legal Studies

In diverse fields like human resources, healthcare, management, or accounting, understanding the law can help you advance your career. And a master’s in legal studies strengthens advanced legal skills.

If you want to work in areas like contract negotiations, compliance, mediation, or intellectual property, an online legal studies degree might be a good fit. You can prepare for diverse legal studies careers in as little as one year.

Unlike law school, an online master’s degree in legal studies doesn’t train you to become a lawyer. Instead, you’ll learn how to apply the law in your industry — in less time than it takes to become an attorney.

Popular Online Master’s in Legal Studies Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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2024 Best Online Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Programs

#1 Best Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Online Programs 2024

University of Illinois Springfield

  • Location-markerSpringfield, IL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,645
  • Out-of-state$16,449
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,375
  • Out-of-state$14,021
  • Retention Rate67%
  • Acceptance Rate79%
  • Students Enrolled3,944
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment92%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Online Programs 2024

University of Arizona

  • Location-markerTucson, AZ
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,990
  • Out-of-state$33,739
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$12,106
  • Out-of-state$32,290
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate87%
  • Students Enrolled48,274
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment56%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Online Programs 2024

West Virginia University

  • Location-markerMorgantown, WV
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,144
  • Out-of-state$25,824
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,332
  • Out-of-state$26,676
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled25,474
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Online Programs 2024

Webster University

  • Location-markerSaint Louis, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$28,500
  • Out-of-state$28,500
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$13,500
  • Out-of-state$13,500
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate59%
  • Students Enrolled6,779
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment61%
  • AccreditationYes

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To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

What Is a Master’s of Legal Studies?

A master’s of legal studies provides graduate-level training in the law in less time than law school. It’s a good option if you work closely with legal professionals or your job requires an advanced understanding of legal writing, regulations, or legal research.

During your legal studies master’s program, you’ll take courses in contract law, intellectual property, torts, and legal procedures. Depending on the program, you can also choose from concentrations such as:

  • Corporate law
  • Contract negotiation
  • Compliance
  • Intellectual property law
  • Healthcare law

A legal studies degree isn’t a JD — you can’t become a lawyer with this degree. But it can help you move into roles that require in-depth knowledge of the legal field.

What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) Degree?

Whether you want to add legal expertise to your current knowledge or move into a new field, a master’s in legal studies can help you reach your career goals.

With a master’s in legal studies, you can work as a compliance officer, human resources manager, contract negotiation manager, or health services manager. This versatile degree can give you an edge in many industries.

Professional organizations help legal studies graduate students and professionals connect with colleagues and expand their skills. Specialized organizations such as the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, the American Health Law Association, or the National Association for Consumer Advocates can help you apply your legal knowledge in your field.

Possible Careers With an Online Master’s in Legal Studies
JobMedian Salary (May 2023)Job Outlook (2023-2033)
Law Librarian$64,3703%
Conciliator$71,5406%
Social and Community Service Manager$77,0308%
Accountant$70,8806%
Postsecondary Law Teacher$127,3608%
Medical and Health Services Manager$110,68029%
Cybersecurity Analyst$120,36033%
Sales Manager$135,1606%
Human Resources Manager$136,3506%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Is an Online Master’s of Legal Studies Worth It?

Earning a graduate degree can improve your job opportunities and compensation. Because of its versatility, a legal studies degree can help you move into specialized roles, such as compliance officer or contract manager. Legal knowledge can also help you advance your career in business, human resources, healthcare, and other industries.

Before applying to graduate programs, research your job opportunities and earning potential to make sure your investment pays off.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Legal Studies Degrees

Paralegal studies prepares graduates for careers as paralegals, while legal studies covers broader legal topics. However, the content of these two programs is often similar, and some universities use the two names interchangeably. Check with specific programs to learn more.

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