Online Master of Legal Studies

Why Should I Earn a Master of Legal Studies (MLS)?

The online Master of Legal Studies program builds legal skills for professionals working (or aspiring to work!) in law-related fields. Whether you are a paralegal, a corporate or non-profit professional, a teacher, or an entrepreneur, this curriculum is designed to help you develop expertise to make informed decisions at work and enhance your credibility with your partners, clients, constituents, and employers. Pepperdine Caruso School of Law wants to help you advance with confidence in your field, or open doors to a new one. In our MLS program, you will gain a general understanding of the U.S legal system and an overview of major concepts across a number of core disciplines. Students also have the option of concentrating their studies in dispute resolution, human resources, or litigation.

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MLS Degree Highlights

No GRE/LSAT Scores Required to Apply

Ranked Law School for Dispute Resolution¹

Countries Represented in Our Alumni Network

¹ Pepperdine University Graduate School Rankings. (Ranked in 2022). U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved May 30, 2023.

Which Legal Specializations Can I Choose From?

Dispute Resolution

Hone your legal skills in arbitration and conflict mediation.

Human Resources

Gain a solid understanding of the legal system and employment law.

Litigation

Build on your expertise with litigation-specific course work.

Why Choose the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law?

Pepperdine Caruso School of Law has experienced remarkable growth and distinction among American law schools, marked by rising national recognition and a strong commitment to excellence. As part of a Christ-centered university, we combine rigorous legal training with enduring values that shape both professional preparation and personal formation.

Our community reflects a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, united by a shared commitment to academic rigor, character, and purpose. Here, students are challenged and supported to grow beyond what they thought possible and to pursue lives of meaning, leadership, and service.

Online Classes.
In-Person Residencies.

Flexible Course Schedules

Small Class Sizes

Global Alumni Network

Complete the program in as few as 12 months and propel your law career forward in dispute resolution. Request more information to get started.

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How do I Apply and What is the Cost of the MLS Degree?

Application Requirements

A bachelor's degree is required for admission. Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, however, does not require GMAT, GRE, or LSAT scores.

Candidates must submit the following materials to be considered for admission:

Transcripts
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
Resume

Fill out the form to learn more about application requirements and upcoming deadlines.

Scholarships

100% of Applicants Are Considered for Scholarships

All applicants are also reviewed for partial scholarships at the time of application, without the need for any additional documentation.

Financial Aid

Financial aid options are available for those who qualify.

Dean Chalak Richards walks with a student outside

Distinguished Faculty

Pepperdine Caruso School of Law faculty are accomplished legal scholars and experts. All are committed to providing students with the resources they need to succeed in our online Master of Legal Studies program. Our faculty members empower their students with the legal expertise and ethical judgment they need to meet the complex challenges they may encounter in their professional roles.

What do Students & Alumni say about the program?

"I feel like this degree has really helped me be more marketable because I am sometimes competing with JDs, but my strategic advantage is that I’ll have knowledge of the law but at a more flexible rate than a JD would need salary-wise."

— Mark Rapanut, Compliance leader in the cannabis industry

"I gravitated toward Pepperdine because of the full depth and breadth of law in general and not just a specific niche. I liked the idea of being expansive in my personal life as well as my professional life."

— Rachel Sile, Technology business management analyst for the U.S. Court System

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Complete the program in as few as 12 months and propel your law career forward in dispute resolution.
Request more information below to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Master of Legal Studies (MLS) and what are its key learning outcomes?

This master’s degree program prepares you for advancing your career in law-related fields without becoming a lawyer. You'll gain expertise in legal research and writing with a focus on the U.S. legal system. Graduates are ready to manage compliance and negotiate contracts in their industry.

Is the MLS program 100% online?

Yes, the Master of Legal Studies program is offered online, providing the flexibility to study from anywhere. Coursework is typically available asynchronously to fit your schedule. However, students must attend two weekend residencies on the Malibu campus for networking and hands-on simulations.

What are the admission requirements for the Master of Legal Studies?

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree. Submit a resume, transcripts, statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a video interview. A specific minimum GPA is not specified as review is holistic. No GRE or LSAT scores are required.

What is the total cost of tuition and fees?

Estimated total tuition is approximately $69,680. Additional costs may include residency fees, books, and travel for on-campus requirements. For a full breakdown, visit the program's official tuition page.

How long does it typically take to complete the Master of Legal Studies?

Complete the MLS program in as few as 12 months full-time or 20 to 28 months part-time. The flexible pacing is designed to fit your professional and personal schedule.

Is the Master of Legal Studies program accredited, and by which accrediting bodies?

Yes, the MLS program is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and has received acquiescence from the American Bar Association (ABA). This ensures your degree meets high academic standards and holds professional value.

What is the typical curriculum or course structure for the MLS program?

The curriculum offers a comprehensive education in legal studies. Key areas of study include contracts, torts, and constitutional law. The program includes two required in-person residencies and optional specializations in Dispute Resolution, Human Resources, or Litigation.

What career paths and job opportunities are available to graduates with an MLS Degree?

Our graduates with their MLS Degree pursue diverse leadership roles in business, healthcare, and human resources. Common career paths include Compliance Officer, HR Manager, and Corporate Executive.