University of Arizona

What you'll study

This master's combines advanced legal research methods with topical professional modules to prepare students for work at the intersection of law, policy and organisational practice. Core study areas typically include methodology in legal research, statutory and regulatory analysis, comparative and international law perspectives, and professional ethics.

• Legal Research Methods: qualitative and quantitative techniques for researching statutes, case law, administrative materials and secondary sources; advanced legal writing and citation practice.
• Regulatory and Administrative Law: structure of regulatory agencies, rulemaking and enforcement, compliance frameworks and administrative adjudication.
• Comparative and International Law: principles of comparative legal analysis, international instruments, and cross-border regulatory issues.
• Specialist Electives: options typically cover areas such as intellectual property, data privacy and cybersecurity law, health law and policy, environmental regulation, or corporate governance, allowing customisation to a student’s professional goals.
• Professional Skills and Ethics: courses on legal project management, negotiation and alternative dispute resolution, professional responsibility and ethics for non‑lawyers.
• Capstone or Thesis: a substantial research project or practicum that consolidates advanced research skills and produces a publishable-quality paper or an applied report for an employer or public body.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The programme welcomes applicants from law, social sciences, business, public policy and related backgrounds. Typical application materials include a current résumé or CV, academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining research and professional objectives, and references.

Relevant professional experience, particularly in legal-adjacent roles (compliance, policy, litigation support, regulatory affairs), strengthens an application. Some applicants may be invited to an interview. International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates develop advanced research, analysis and regulatory skills that are valuable across sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Legal research and support roles in law firms, courts or legal aid clinics
• Compliance and regulatory affairs positions in financial services, healthcare, technology and energy
• Policy analyst or legal analyst roles in government agencies, think tanks and non-governmental organisations
• Corporate governance, risk management and contract management roles in the private sector
• Research and academic pathways for those who pursue further graduate study or publish in legal and policy journals

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers this programme within a research-active environment that benefits from close links to the James E. Rogers College of Law and campus-wide interdisciplinary centres. Students gain access to extensive legal collections, experienced faculty with practitioner and scholarly backgrounds, and co-curricular clinics and externships that provide practical exposure.

The university’s location and institutional resources support partnerships with state and federal agencies, local law firms and industry employers, helping students apply research to real-world legal and regulatory challenges. Dedicated career services, writing support and research seminars further strengthen graduates’ readiness for specialised professional roles.