The master’s in legal studies degree program teaches students how to interpret and apply legislation within their chosen field. This major is not limited to those pursuing a law degree. Instead, it’s easily adaptable to a wide range of careers, increasing marketability with employers in industries such as human services, education, and nonprofit management.
The average cost to complete a master’s degree in 2021-2022 was $20,513, with tuition rates significantly higher at private institutions than in public schools. Salaries for individuals with a master’s in legal studies can vary depending on their chosen field, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting an average annual wage of $99,220 during 2023.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Legal Studies degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 13 Accredited Legal Studies Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Cornell University
Intelligent Score: 99.29In-state: $58,586
Out-of-state: $58,586
In-state: $29,500
Out-of-state: $29,500
SAT: 1400-1540
ACT: 32-35
$2,070
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
30
The University of Oklahoma
Intelligent Score: 96.68In-state: $4,788
Out-of-state: $20,169
In-state: $6,943
Out-of-state: $6,943
SAT: 1100-1300
ACT: 23-29
Resident: $567
Non-Resident: $1,028
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
32
University of California, Los Angeles
Intelligent Score: 96.41In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$2,398
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
32
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 95.14In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
Resident: $897
Non-Resident: $1,472
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Intelligent Score: 95.11In-state: $7,770
Out-of-state: $24,900
In-state: $6,138
Out-of-state: $6,138
SAT: 1110-1320
ACT: 22-28
Resident: $420
Non-Resident: $1,132
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
30-33
Stanford University
Intelligent Score: 94.97In-state: $55,473
Out-of-state: $55,473
In-state: $54,315
Out-of-state: $54,315
SAT: 1420-1570
ACT: 31-35
$2,652
On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
30
Loyola Marymount University, Loyola Law School
Intelligent Score: 93.92In-state: $51,820
Out-of-state: $51,820
In-state: $19,460
Out-of-state: $19,460
SAT: 1210-1390
ACT: 27-31
$2,220
On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
24-40
University of San Diego
Intelligent Score: 93.79In-state: $52,120
Out-of-state: $52,120
In-state: $27,936
Out-of-state: $27,936
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,890
On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
26
University of San Francisco
Intelligent Score: 93.68In-state: $51,930
Out-of-state: $51,930
In-state: $26,640
Out-of-state: $26,640
SAT: 1140-1330
ACT: 24-30
$1,815
On-Campus, Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
24
University of Illinois Springfield
Intelligent Score: 93.42In-state: $14,317
Out-of-state: $33,824
In-state: $15,016
Out-of-state: $15,016
SAT: 1200-1460
ACT: 27-33
Resident: $332
Non-Resident: $682
On-Campus, Online
Higher Learning Commission
36
University of Denver
Intelligent Score: 91.92In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
SAT: 1170-1360
ACT: 26-31
$1,982
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
24
University of Chicago
Intelligent Score: 88.59In-state: $57,642
Out-of-state: $57,642
In-state: $60,300
Out-of-state: $60,300
SAT: 1500-1570
ACT: 34-35
$2,833
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
27
Seattle University
Intelligent Score: 88.23In-state: $47,565
Out-of-state: $47,565
In-state: $13,500
Out-of-state: $13,500
SAT: 1130-1330
ACT: 24-30
$1,462
On-Campus, Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
30
How to Choose a Master’s in Legal Studies Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Legal studies is a versatile degree, making it critical to find a program that strengthens your career path. The duties of a legal studies professional working within law enforcement are much different than those of a university administrator.
Students can choose from pursuing an MS (Master of Science) or MA (Master of Arts) in legal studies or an MLS (Master of Legal Studies). Traditionally, an MA has a more theoretical basis, while the MS is technical-driven. Because every school’s curriculum is unique, review the classes offered and any subspecialties, such as environmental or cybersecurity, before deciding.
Research schools and programs
Prospective students can gather relevant information by scanning an institution’s departmental website. Look at the overall objective of the legal studies program, paying attention to the types of careers this course of study promotes. You can also discover more details on available specialties and find out if you can customize the curriculum.
Students who plan on pursuing a law career should check if the program is accredited by the American Bar Association. Education specialties may use an alternative accrediting organization. Don’t forget to research the institution in terms of transportation (if you’re attending in person), online options, tuition fees, and overall culture.
Prepare for tests and applications
Regardless of which school you choose, the application process can be time-consuming. Make a checklist to ensure you don’t miss out on the next cohort, with deadlines included. A master’s in legal studies generally gives you a great deal of latitude with your undergraduate degree. However, highly specific specialties, such as children’s or environmental law, may require a related bachelor’s degree.
Most applications include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Depending on the school, you may need a minimum GPA from your previous coursework and approved test scores in the English language. While the LSAT may not be required, it can strengthen your application if you’ve taken it.
Select your program
Some schools may have more than one legal studies degree track, allowing you to fine-tune your master’s program right from the start. Choosing between legal administration and forensic engineering should be a straightforward decision based on your career path. Meanwhile, you can explore generic pathways in more depth by reviewing program objectives, requirements, and course outlines.
Some legal studies degree programs require a capstone project, while others offer an internship as the final course — another item to factor into your decision. Finally, consider credit hours and completion time. More credit hours equal higher tuition and a longer time in school.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Creating a budget early in the process can help ensure you have the funds to complete your legal studies degree once you’ve begun. Start by considering all the costs of your schooling, from tuition and books to transportation and time off work. Once you have your total figure, it’s time to look at funding opportunities.
Although you may have to pay some money out-of-pocket, explore all available assistance programs first. Begin with your institution’s financial aid office for scholarships, and then check if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement benefit. Finally, consider federal and private student loans, which can be paid back over time.
What Can You Expect From a Legal Studies Degree Program?
Regardless of the legal studies program (MS, MA, or MLS) or whether you plan on becoming a paralegal or working as a legal expert in another capacity, courses cover general law before moving into more specific topics. Electives such as contracts, children’s rights, nonprofits, criminal justice, and public policy are just a few ways to customize your track.
Legal studies programs offer a broad range of experiences for advanced students. Clinical education provides a work setting in which to learn skills in the field. Graduate internships offer hands-on experience with the possibility of future employment or network opportunities. Some programs require a capstone project as a way to showcase your legal knowledge and skills to professors and future employers.
Most master’s programs in legal studies take approximately two years to complete. Factors that impact program length include credit hours and advanced requirements, such as internships or projects.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in legal studies degree program
- American Constitutional Law. This class provides an overview of the U.S. legal system, including citizens’ rights and each branch’s authority. Students also review historical milestones in the development of the current political landscape.
- Legal Writing and Research. This course teaches students how to analyze cases, find authorities, and craft proper legal documents. You’ll have opportunities for discussion within your cohort and learn how to respond in oral and written formats.Â
- Corporate Law. Students looking to work in the business world need a thorough understanding of corporate entities and how each structure is handled regarding liability and employment. This course provides insight into financing, government regulations, and business ethics.
- International Law. Today’s global economy requires knowledge of the legal processes in other countries, including criminal and civil justice. Students will also discuss sensitive topics involving human rights, environmental protection, and conflict resolution.
- Contracts. Understanding, writing, and explaining contracts is a critical skill for legal professionals, regardless of your career focus. This course teaches how to identify parties involved in contracts and what constitutes a breach of contract.
Master’s in Legal Studies Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in legal studies degree program?
Individual colleges have specific undergraduate requirements, which can vary between legal studies programs. At a minimum, you’ll need an acceptable bachelor’s degree, application with fee, transcripts from your undergraduate institution, and recommendation letters. Many schools require a previous GPA of 2.7 or higher, and you may need to maintain that throughout your master’s program.
A master’s of legal studies offers a great deal of flexibility. Still, you should meet with an admissions counselor to discuss your career goals and past coursework to ensure you’re on track for the next session. They can also help you customize your program through electives.
How much does a master's in legal studies degree cost?
The greatest variability in tuition depends on your chosen school. For example, during 2021-22, public institutions averaged $12,500 for a master’s degree, while their private counterparts were around $28,000. In addition, tuition is based on credit hours, so a program with 39 hours will cost more than one with 26 hours. You should be able to estimate tuition costs by reviewing your school’s website.
But don’t forget to consider indirect costs, like transportation, meals, and missed work, when budgeting your outlay. Many schools provide online degree programs, saving you money and increasing flexibility.
How long does it take to earn a master's in legal studies degree?
Most schools expect full-time graduate students to complete their program in about two years. However, each student is unique, and various factors, such as full-time versus part-time enrollment and customized curriculum, can greatly impact progress.
Consider how much time you have to devote to attending classes and completing out-of-class assignments. If you have a full-time job, you may find that one four-credit class is all you can handle in a semester. It’s a good idea to discuss timing and class progression with your admissions counselor to ensure you can register for the classes you need and to verify the school’s policy regarding extended completion times.