Master of Legal Studies (MLS) Online

Gain Core Legal Skills with a Master of Legal Studies Degree

American University Washington College of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program is designed for non-lawyer professionals who have law-related responsibilities and understand the law’s important influence on their daily job functions and community at large. The MLS program will allow you to gain fundamental legal training and the industry-specific knowledge you need to help your organization solve problems and comply with rapidly changing policies and regulations.

The Online Student Experience

As a student in the Master of Legal Studies online program, you will collaborate face-to-face with faculty and peers in engaging live, online classes. In preparation for the live classes, you will complete interactive, self-paced course work. You will gain access to D.C.’s legal community for invaluable legal resources and connections. Plus, you can complete your Master of Legal Studies degree online in as few as 12 months.

Why Earn a Master of Legal Studies?

No matter how you deal with the law—whether it’s handling contracts, drafting new policies, or ensuring compliance with legal regulations in your field—earning your master’s in legal studies equips you with the legal framework you need to understand legal issues and face new challenges in your role. With an MLS, you will be able to broaden your leadership potential and open the door to new career advancement opportunities.

Through the online MLS at American University Washington College of Law, you will learn the  foundations of the U.S. legal system, allowing you to better perform your job and make a difference in your community. Many careers across a variety of industries can benefit from the knowledge gained in the MLS program:

  • Paralegals
  • Business executives
  • Government employees
  • Health care compliance managers
  • Software engineers
Quick Facts
  • #4
    International Law Specialty Program*
  • #10
    Intellectual Property Law Specialty Program*
  • #11
    Health Law Specialty Program*
  • 20,000+
    Washington College of Law Alumni
  • 130,000+
    AU Alumni Worldwide
*American University (Washington) Law School Overview. (2021). U.S. News & World Report. Retrieved November 2020 from https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-law-schools/american-university-03029