Arizona State University’s Master of Legal Studies offers a unique opportunity to understand U.S. law without pursuing a full law degree. This program lays the groundwork in legal analysis, writing and concepts, with the option to choose electives that align with your career goals. Designed for professionals seeking to enhance their careers or transition to new fields, you’ll graduate equipped with practical legal knowledge and skills.
Pursuant to American Bar Association standards, no law credits completed prior to admission to a JD program, including credits earned in the Master of Legal Studies program, may be transferred to a future Juris Doctor program under any circumstances.
Full-time
The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law is dedicated to creating the next generation of lawyers and industry leaders. Honoring the legacy of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and charged with upholding her namesake, our graduates are well-prepared to shape all aspects of the legal field from public service to private practice, to fields that work in and around the law.
Students enrolled at an ASU Cintana Alliance Network institution have the chance to start their courses at their home institution and transfer those credits* to finish their remaining years at ASU.
Models available: Graduate dual degree and accelerated masters.
*Transfer eligibility is subject to student performance in courses at home institution and Arizona State University transfer requirements.
This course begins with an accelerated introduction to federal administrative agencies, the sources and boundaries of their authority and options for redress for parties aggrieved by administrative actions.
In this course, you’ll review and analyze different principles of the fundamentals of criminal law, including the principles of punishment and burdens of proof.
In this course, you’ll cover the legal protections of personality, property and relational interests against physical, economic and emotional harm.
The Master of Legal Studies degree is designed for those who are looking to obtain working knowledge of the law but do not intend to become practicing lawyers. Graduates have achieved training in complicated legal topics and lawyering skills that prove invaluable to law firms, court systems, government agencies and corporations.
| Program Start | Application Deadline | Classes Begin | Tuition Payment Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring start (January) | November 1, 2024 | January 13, 2025 | January 20, 2025 |
| Summer start (May) | April 27, 2025 | ||
| Fall start (August) | June 1, 2025 | August 21, 2025 | August 25, 2025 |
| Spring start (January) | November 1, 2025 | January 12, 2026 | January 19, 2026 |