The Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) program, also referred to as "Master of Studies in Law," is offered entirely online and can be completed in under two years. Our Master of Legal Studies online program is designed for those who work—or aspire to work—in fields that routinely intersect with law, such as business, education, health care, human resources, and law enforcement. By studying the legal system and its workplace implications, students gain the expertise needed to navigate the legal challenges that now arise in every field.
Learn more about the Master of Legal Studies program at the Colleges of Law by visiting them online at http://www.collegesoflaw.edu/Master_of_Legal_Studies_MLS
FAQs: Master of Legal Studies at The Colleges of Law
1. FAQs: Master of Legal Studies Program at The
Colleges of Law
Q: What is the target audience for this degree?
A: The target audience for the MLS program will be individuals employed in fields that routinely
intersect with law and the legal system, such as business, education, health care, human resources and
law enforcement. The program will meet the needs of students whose goal is not to practice law, but
rather to enhance their careers by earning a graduate degree. With a concrete understanding of the U.S.
legal system and its practical implications for decision-making in the workplace, graduates will be
prepared to perform at a higher level, qualify for advancement and assume leadership roles.
Q: What if I decide at any point within the MLS I want to pursue a JD degree?
A: Of critical importance is the fact that the MLS program is specifically designed for individuals who
wish to obtain an advanced knowledge of the law and the American legal system, but who do not wish
to become lawyers. Units earned in the MLS program will not under any circumstances be transferable
to the JD degree. If you choose to pursue a JD degree you will need to apply into that program and
complete the admission requirements.
Q: What are some of the program unique features or competitive advantages of a M.L.S.
degree?
A: M.L.S. classes focus on how to identify and effectively manage legal risks from the pragmatic
perspective of those responsible for achieving a workplace mission, such as business managers,
educators, or law enforcement personnel. Core classes equip students with a strong foundation in
substantive legal areas, as well as practical skills that support effective communication in legal contexts.
In elective and capstone courses, students pursue subjects related to their own professional interests.
2. Q: What does the program cost?
A: Tuition for the M.L.S. program is $475 per unit and requires 24 units to complete. That is a total of
only $11,400! Fees for books are additional.
Q: Who will be my instructors?
A: The Colleges' faculty are all attorneys or judges who are able to bring their practical experience to the
classroom. Many have taught at our school for as long as 10 to 30 years; each is an integral part of the
legal community our graduates will be joining.
Q: How are the classes held?
A: The Colleges offer the Master of Legal Studies degree as an online-exclusive degree program that
consists of 18 required core credits and 6 required elective credits, and can be completed in two years.
Q: What about the California State Bar Exam?
A: The M.L.S. program does not qualify graduates to sit for California's Bar Examination, nor does it
satisfy requirements for admission to practice law in California. Prospective students who wish to
practice law should consider the J.D. program after carefully reviewing the J.D. program information
available under the Juris Doctor section.
For more information about M.L.S. Degree Program at
The Colleges of Law:
Santa Barbara Campus: (805) 979-8060
Ventura Campus (805) 965-8300
http://www.CollegesofLaw.edu