A Master’s Degree
in Law Designed for
Non-Lawyers
Earn Your Master’s in Law Studies (MLS) | Learn Online | Connect on Campus
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Master of Law Studies (MLS)
Golden Gate University’s Master of Law Studies (MLS) is designed to provide graduates with a deep understanding of essential topics, major concepts, and core theories of law and legal studies to prepare them for legal-adjacent careers or a transition to law school. An MLS degree is ideal for non-lawyers pursuing careers that require advanced legal knowledge.
In today’s market, there is an increasing demand for experts with advanced legal knowledge but without a JD. MLS graduates can use their knowledge and skills in a variety of professional legal settings for non-lawyers, including, but not limited to legal assistant, contracts officer, management consultant, compliance officer, government official, paralegal, corporate ethics officer, lobbyist, social worker, educator, public affairs specialist, human resources professional, court administrator, financial officer, health care administrator, grants officer, and many more.
Program Overview
Online or Hybrid Courses
30 Credits
Graduate in as Little as 1 Year
Attend Full-Time or Part-Time
No LSAT or GRE Required
Taught by Industry Experts
Earn Your MLS Around Your Schedule
With our flexible and innovative program, including evening classes, you don’t have to halt your career to complete an advanced degree.
Complete Your MLS in as Little as One Year
The MLS degree requires 30 credits — a seven-course core covering the range of basic, substantive areas of legal knowledge, as well as three elective courses to introduce students to specialty legal areas in high demand.
Prepare for a Career in Law or Business
Learn to apply legal analysis to critically interpret and explain legal issues. MLS students gain legal training preparing them to succeed in careers requiring advanced legal knowledge.
Elevate Your Career
Earning your Master of Law Studies creates endless career opportunities, as the advanced legal knowledge you gain throughout this program is in high demand across all industries. Legal occupations are growing faster than average, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating there will be 90K+ new jobs each year, on average, through 2032.
Common career paths for MLS graduates include:
- Legal Consultant
- Paralegal
- Senior Business Analyst
- Senior Contract Negotiator
- Real Estate Agent
- Corporate Ethics Officer
- Director of Operations
Why Choose GGU?
Industry-Experienced Faculty
At GGU, 80% of our faculty are scholar practitioners who currently work in the fields they teach. You’ll learn directly from experts who can share valuable insights into what today’s employers are looking for.
Small Class Sizes
With an average class size of 17 students, you’ll get a more personalized experience at GGU. Here, you’ll be able to collaborate with classmates and form lasting connections with your professors.
Flexible Lifestyle
We offer online and hybrid degree programs that are designed for busy adults. With 3 start terms per year and convenient 15-week courses, you’ll be able to manage your schedule the way you want while you balance school with work, family, and life.
World-Class Education
We’re committed to providing adult learners with the best education available. Our programs are accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and GGU is consistently ranked as a top university for working professionals.
About Golden Gate University
At GGU, our mission is to help you build a brighter foundation for your future through higher education. As one of California’s oldest private and nonprofit universities, Golden Gate University has been focused on providing practical, career-focused degrees to working adults since 1901.
Over the past 25+ years, we’ve evolved to meet the needs of nontraditional students by offering flexible online and hybrid programs in the growing fields of business, finance, law, technology, taxation, and accounting.
Our location in the heart of San Francisco’s high-tech and financial district provides you with access to some of the world’s biggest companies — even as an online or hybrid student. Whether you’re ready to finish your degree, make a career change, qualify for a new job, or simply set yourself up for future success, Golden Gate University is here to help you make your goals a reality.
70K+
GGU Alumni Worldwide
98%
of Grads Recommend GGU
60+
Degrees Designed
for Working Professionals
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Golden Gate University is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
To learn if GGU is allowed to offer online education in your state, click here.
