Pace University

What you'll study

This programme focuses on substantive and practical aspects of law as they apply outside of the traditional attorney role. You will study core legal subjects alongside applied modules that emphasise analysis, research and real-world problem solving.

• Foundations of Law – introduction to legal reasoning, sources of law and the U.S. legal system.
• Contracts and Commercial Law – principles of contract formation, performance and remedies, and commercial transactions.
• Administrative and Regulatory Law – rulemaking, agency powers, and procedures central to regulatory compliance.
• Constitutional and Civil Rights Law – structure of government, individual rights, and key constitutional doctrines that affect public and private organisations.
• Employment and Labour Law – workplace rights, discrimination law, collective bargaining basics and employer obligations.
• Compliance, Risk Management and Ethics – frameworks for corporate compliance programmes, ethical issues and internal investigations.
• Legal Research and Writing – practical skills in researching statutes and case law and producing analytical legal memoranda and policy briefs.
• Intellectual Property and Privacy – introductory coverage of copyright, trademark, trade secrets and data protection considerations for organisations.
• Electives and Applied Options – students typically choose electives such as international law, dispute resolution, transactional drafting, or a practicum.
• Capstone or Integrative Project – a culminating applied project, policy analysis or research paper that demonstrates mastery of legal concepts in a non-professional context.

The programme is usually delivered through a combination of seminars, case-method classes and experiential elements such as simulations, clinics or internships with host organisations in the New York metropolitan area.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Admissions committees typically look for evidence of academic achievement and the capacity for graduate-level study.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A current résumé or CV outlining relevant academic, professional or volunteer experience.
• A personal statement describing your reasons for pursuing the degree, career aims and how the programme fits those goals.
• Letters of recommendation (usually one to three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to your readiness for graduate study.
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency where required (accepted tests typically include TOEFL or IELTS or equivalent).
• Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application; some applicants with non-legal backgrounds are admitted based on demonstrated interest and transferable skills.

Standardised tests such as the GRE or GMAT may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis; consult the programme admissions office for current policies.

Career prospects

Graduates use the degree to advance in roles that require legal literacy and analytical skills but do not require admission to the bar. Typical career paths include:

• Compliance officer or risk manager in financial services, healthcare, technology or corporate settings.
• Contracts or procurement manager drafting, reviewing and negotiating agreements.
• Legal analyst, policy analyst or research specialist in government, NGOs, think tanks or corporate legal departments.
• Paralegal or litigation support professional within law firms and in-house teams.
• Human resources, labour relations or benefits administration roles that intersect with employment law.
• Roles in dispute resolution, mediation support, regulatory affairs and advocacy organisations.
• Some graduates move on to further study—including JD programmes or specialised master’s degrees—if they choose to pursue professional legal qualification.

Why study at Pace University

Pace University’s location within the New York metropolitan area gives students direct access to a concentration of law firms, courts, corporate headquarters and regulatory agencies, enabling rich internship and networking opportunities. The programme is designed to be interdisciplinary, allowing students to draw on resources across Pace’s schools.

• Faculty who combine academic experience with practical backgrounds in law, compliance and public policy.
• Proximity to legal and regulatory institutions for experiential learning and placement possibilities.
• Career services and an engaged alumni network that support placement in non‑attorney legal roles and related professions.
• A curriculum tailored for working professionals, with flexibility in elective choice and applied project options to match career aims.

Overall, the Master’s in Non-Professional Legal Studies at Pace is geared toward individuals seeking substantive legal knowledge to enhance decision-making and leadership in organisations without intending to practice as attorneys.