Northeastern University

Overview

The online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program at Northeastern University is tailored for professionals who engage with legal matters but do not seek to become practicing lawyers. This course equips you with essential legal reasoning skills and allows you to apply this knowledge through a range of industry-specific electives and concentrations.

• Award: Master of Legal Studies (MLS)
• Delivery: Online
• Designed for: Non-lawyer professionals managing legal issues
• Academic focus: Legal reasoning, compliance, information governance, negotiation and advocacy, and sector-specific legal applications
• Concentrations: Business Law, Health Law, Human Resources Law, Intellectual Property Law, Public Law and Policy
• GRE/GMAT: Not required (optional)
• English language tests: TOEFL iBT or IELTS for non-native speakers
• Application materials: Transcripts, résumé, personal statement, and recommendation letter

What you'll study

The program's core coursework establishes a solid foundation in legal reasoning and practical legal concepts, followed by industry-focused electives and concentration choices tailored to your career goals.

Sample courses

• Legal Studies: Law and Legal Reasoning
• Law of Information and Records
• Law and Strategy
• Negotiation and Advocacy
• Data Regulation and Compliance
• Law and Organizational Management
• Intellectual Property Survey
• Identifying and Securing Intellectual Property Rights
• Intellectual Property and Media

Concentrations / pathways

Select a concentration or elective pathway that aligns with your professional aspirations, including:

• Business Law
• Health Law
• Human Resources Law
• Intellectual Property Law
• Public Law and Policy

Capstone / thesis: Check with the university for the latest details regarding capstone or final assessment requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. There are no publicly listed GRE/GMAT requirements or minimum GPA cut-offs for this program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MLS program are prepared to excel in various roles across multiple sectors, including business, healthcare, and government. The skills acquired through this program enable professionals to effectively navigate legal issues and contribute to their organizations' compliance and strategic objectives.