Master of Studies in Law

Master of Studies in Law

The Master of Studies in Law (“M.S.L.”) provides legal training for non-lawyers who wish to develop legal expertise that will aid them in their current jobs or facilitate career advancement. Students will complete 30 credit hours and will be able to complete their degrees either on a full-time or part-time basis.

Students who are working full-time and taking classes at night will be enrolled in the part-time program.

All new M.S.L. students will begin coursework in fall semesters. Application deadline: June 1, 2023.

Students are required to complete Legal Institutions & Methods and two additional law school core curriculum courses. A capstone project must be successfully completed prior to graduation. Remaining courses will be chosen from the law school’s curriculum. With the exception of the Legal Institutions & Methods course, M.S.L. students will attend classes with J.D. students.

M.S.L. students may take a general curriculum or adopt a concentration.

Full-Time Curriculum

Fall Semester
Course NameCredit Hours
Legal Institutions & Methods3
First-year core course3
Electives9
Total Hours15

Spring Semester
First-year core course2-3
Electives (one of which satisfies capstone)12-13
Total Hours15

Part-Time Curriculum

Fall Semester - Year 1
Course NameCredit Hours
Legal Institutions & Methods3
First-year core course3
Electives4
Total Hours10

Spring Semester - Year 1
First-year core course2-3
Electives 7-8
Total Hours9-11

Fall Semester - Year 2
Course NameCredit Hours
Electives (one of which satisfies capstone)10
Total Hours10

Academic Rules and Performance Criteria

Scholarship Eligibility

Admitted M.S.L. students are eligible for Bowen’s merit scholarships.