Online Master of Legal Studies

Master the Legal Knowledge to Lead with Confidence

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

By submitting this form, I consent to the University of Oklahoma (OU) and its agents contacting me about educational opportunities via automated calls, text messages, and/or email at the number and email provided. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend the OU or to receive information by other means. For details on how OU collects and protects your information, review the Privacy Policy.

At a Glance

Advance your career with the University of Oklahoma’s online MLS—a dynamic program designed for professionals who work alongside legal teams, manage compliance, or navigate regulatory frameworks across industries.

Offered through OU’s top-ranked College of Law, this flexible, 100% online degree can be completed in as little as 15 months. The program empowers professionals to lead with confidence in roles involving contracts, governance, policy, and risk management—without needing a JD or LSAT. Whether you’re in healthcare, education, business, or government, the online MLS equips you with the legal fluency to make strategic decisions and elevate your impact.

100% Online

Time to Complete:

15-18+ months

Credit Hours:

Time Commitment:

15 to 20 hours weekly

start dates

Fall & Spring

cost

OU’s online MLS program is designed for professionals who work in law-adjacent roles and want to lead in compliance, governance, and policy across industries.

Tuition and fees for the program are approximately:

Oklahoma Residents: $612.65 per credit hour, plus additional fees of 201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester
Non-Residents: $1,111.90 per credit hour, plus additional fees of 201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester

Books and additional materials are not included.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

By submitting this form, l consent to the University of Oklahoma (OU) and its agents contacting me about educational opportunities via automated calls, text messages, and/or email at the number and email provided. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend the OU or to receive information by other means. For details on how OU collects and protects your information, review the Privacy Policy.

About the Master of Legal Studies Online

The University of Oklahoma’s legal studies master’s degree online is a 32-credit-hour program designed to equip professionals with the legal insight and practical skills needed to lead in complex, law-adjacent environments.

The Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar of the American Bar Association (the “Council”) does not accredit or approve non-J.D. degrees or certificates. In its review of non-J.D. degree program applications, the Council determines whether the proposed degree program will interfere with the ability of the law school to operate in compliance with the Standards and to carry out its program of legal education. Acquiescence in a degree other than the J.D. degree is not an approval of the degree itself, and, therefore, the law school may not announce that the degree is approved by the Council. The accreditation of non-J.D. degree programs are subject to the oversight of the law school’s or its university’s national accreditor.

Master of Legal Studies: Career Opportunities and Industry Impact

OU’s Master of Legal Studies blends the flexibility of asynchronous learning with the connection of personalized instruction, offering a comprehensive legal foundation. Students advance through core courses in contract law, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance, and complete the program with electives aligned with their industry and career goals. Each course delivers practical legal insight, sharpens analytical skills, and fosters collaboration with faculty and peers—preparing graduates to make informed decisions and drive strategic impact across healthcare, education, business, government, and more. Graduates are prepared to step into influential roles in sectors such as healthcare, education, business, government, and nonprofit organizations. Whether you're advancing in your current field or pivoting into a new one, the online MLS gives you the legal fluency to lead, influence, and drive change. Career opportunities include:

Contracts Manager
Legal Project Coordinator
Operations Manager (with legal or compliance focus)
Corporate Ethics or Governance Officer
Legislative Assistant
Public Affairs Specialist

Regulatory Compliance Analyst
Risk and Policy Advisor
HR Compliance Officer
Corporate Secretary
Legal or Court Clerk

Industry Insights: Legal Knowledge That Drives Opportunity

Professionals with legal expertise—especially in compliance, contracts, and governance—are in high demand across industries. The online MLS degree prepares graduates to step into strategic roles that require legal fluency without the need for a JD.

Median Pay: $78,420 for compliance officers; $99,990 across legal occupations
Job Outlook: 5% projected growth for compliance roles from 2023 to 2033
Job Opportunities: Approximately 85,600 openings per year in legal occupations due to growth and workforce transitions

Legal literacy is increasingly essential in sectors like healthcare, education, energy, and public administration—making the MLS a powerful credential for professionals ready to lead with confidence. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program Outcomes: Legal Expertise for Real-World Impact

OU’s online Master of Legal Studies degree equips professionals with the legal knowledge and practical skills needed to lead confidently in law-adjacent roles. You’ll graduate prepared to navigate complex legal frameworks, collaborate with legal teams, and make informed decisions that align with organizational goals.

Through this program, you’ll learn how to:

Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and court decisions in business and government contexts
Conduct legal research using authoritative sources and communicate findings clearly and professionally
Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with legal precision
Lead compliance initiatives and contribute to internal investigations
Develop policies informed by regulatory frameworks and legal risk assessments
Make strategic decisions about dispute resolution and governance
Collaborate effectively with legal counsel, executives, and regulators
Train teams in legal, ethical, and regulatory matters

Whether you’re advancing in your current role or preparing for a leadership transition, the MLS gives you the legal fluency to elevate your influence and drive change.

Course Details

OU’s Master of Legal Studies empowers professionals to lead with confidence in law-adjacent roles across industries. Students begin the program with Foundations of the U.S. Legal System, build a strong legal foundation through core courses in contract law, dispute resolution, and regulatory frameworks, and round out their education with electives tailored to their professional goals. The program blends flexibility with connection through asynchronous courses designed for working professionals. Each course is structured to deliver practical legal insight, sharpen analytical thinking, and foster collaboration with faculty and peers—preparing graduates to make informed decisions and drive strategic impact.

Foundations of the U.S. Legal System

Credit Hours: 2
This course introduces students to the structure and function of the U.S. legal system. Students learn legal vocabulary, explore the hierarchy of constitutions, statutes, case law, and administrative rules, and sharpen critical thinking through analysis of diverse legal materials.

Business Organizational Structures and Governance

Credit Hours: 3
This course explores the formation, operation, and dissolution of various business entities. Students evaluate risks, benefits, and ethical considerations related to organizational structure and governance.

Regulatory and Administrative Law

Credit Hours: 3
This course focuses on the role of administrative agencies in interpreting and enforcing laws. Students learn about rulemaking, judicial review, and the intersection of legislative and administrative regulations.

Contract Law

Credit Hours: 3
This course introduces the principles of contract formation, enforcement, and interpretation. Topics include offer and acceptance, consideration, unconscionability, breach remedies, and the legal significance of contracts.

Legal Research and Sources of Law

Credit Hours: 1
Students gain the tools to conduct thorough legal research using commercial databases, print publications, and online resources. The course emphasizes proper legal citation and techniques for supporting legal analysis.

Processes in Dispute Resolution

Credit Hours: 3
Students examine arbitration, mediation, and litigation in civil legal contexts. The course covers legal requirements, ethical standards, and strategic considerations for resolving disputes.

Written and Oral Communication

Credit Hours: 3
Students develop clear, concise writing and communication skills for legal audiences. The course emphasizes predictive and persuasive communication, document drafting, and applying legal authorities in context.

Why Choose OU Law for an Online MLS

The OU College of Law offers a Juris Doctor program that is consistently ranked among the best value law degrees. Coupled with OU’s dedication to innovation, the OU College of Law distinguishes itself as an excellent choice for pursuing a Master of Legal Studies.

With a curriculum grounded in legal research, regulatory compliance, contract law, and dispute resolution, this degree equips you to make informed decisions, collaborate with legal teams, and drive strategic impact—without needing a JD or LSAT. OU Law’s student-centered approach ensures you receive personalized support, expert instruction, and a flexible learning experience that fits your schedule and goals.

Faculty Expertise

The University of Oklahoma’s College of Law brings together faculty with deep experience in legal practice, policy, and organizational leadership. These educators specialize in areas such as regulatory compliance, contract law, dispute resolution, and administrative governance—fields that shape the program’s practical, career-focused curriculum.

OU Law faculty are recognized for their ability to translate complex legal concepts into actionable knowledge for professionals. Many have held leadership roles in government, business, and nonprofit organizations, and they bring that insight into every course. Their mentorship and real-world expertise prepare students to lead confidently in law-adjacent roles, collaborate effectively with legal teams, and make informed decisions that drive organizational success.

Robust Student Support

OU Online and the OU College of Law offer robust student support services, including academic support, online tutoring, mental health counseling, and an online career development center. The program accommodates the needs of working professionals, allowing you to expand your leadership and finance skills while maintaining full-time employment.

Global Alumni Network

OU offers a tremendous alumni base in the financial sector and rich experience among the program’s students. With more than 250,000 alumni across the world, becoming a Sooner means you’ll have access to a strong network of finance leaders to accelerate your career.

Flexible Format

The Master of Legal Studies is delivered 100% online in a flexible format built for busy professionals. Earn your degree in as little as 15 months while balancing full-time work and personal commitments. Study from anywhere and gain the legal fluency needed to lead in compliance, governance, and law-adjacent roles across industries. With asynchronous courses and a student-centered approach, OU Online makes it possible to advance your career without putting it on hold.

Tailored Experience

Move through the program with a small, focused cohort of professionals. Courses are asynchronous for maximum flexibility yet designed to be highly interactive. Through dynamic discussions, optional live lectures, personalized support, and collaborative online activities, you stay connected and engaged while learning at your own pace.

Cost & Financial Aid

Earning your online master’s degree in legal studies is an investment in your future—and OU Online is committed to making that investment accessible and transparent.

Tuition and fees for the program are approximately:

Oklahoma Residents: $612.65 per credit hour, plus additional fees of 201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester
Non-Residents: $1,111.90 per credit hour, plus additional fees of 201.30 per credit hour and $117.50 per semester

Additional fees and a semester fee may apply. Books and course materials are not included in the tuition rate.

To help reduce your out-of-pocket costs, financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available. Our dedicated financial services team is here to support you every step of the way.

For questions about financial aid, contact the OU Online Financial Aid Office at onlineaid@ou.edu or call 405-325-2929.

A nonrefundable deposit of $350 is required upon admission to secure your place in the program. This deposit guarantees your spot in your first semester of courses and will be applied toward your first semester’s tuition.

* Please be aware that tuition and fees may change, as determined by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Take the Next Step

Admission to the online Master of Legal Studies program is designed for professionals ready to lead in law-adjacent roles across industries. While prior legal experience is not required, applicants should demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a commitment to advancing in compliance, governance, or policy. To be considered, applicants must:

Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university (or international equivalent)
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
Be in good academic standing with their current or most recent institution
Submit unofficial transcripts for initial review; official transcripts are required within 45 days of admission

This program welcomes applicants from diverse professional backgrounds who are ready to build legal fluency and lead with confidence in complex organizational environments.

Application Timeline

The admissions committee uses a rolling admissions process*, reviewing applications as they are received. Admissions may remain open until two weeks before classes begin, though some programs may have earlier deadlines. The committee typically responds to applicants within two weeks of receiving a completed application. *This program typically has an earlier application deadline than the standard 14 days before the intended start. Please check directly with the program to ensure your application is received in time.

Step 1

Contact an Enrollment Coach to discuss your qualifications and interest in the program.

Step 2

Complete the online application.

Step 3

Provide supplemental materials, including a resume, personal statement, and undergraduate transcripts.