Career Paths with a Master of Legal Studies

Designed for nonlawyers, Pepperdine Caruso School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program prepares students across a wide range of fields to gain the legal expertise and competitive edge they need to pursue careers related to law. Through the MLS program, students will gain a deeper understanding of topics that are crucial to legal careers—including contract negotiation, regulatory compliance, constitutional law, and intellectual property—enhancing their legal skills and ability to perform duties at work.

How a Master of Legal Studies Degree Advances Careers

As demand for legal services continues to rise in public, private, and nonprofit sectors, so does the demand for skilled legal professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in legal occupations is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, resulting in the creation of 67,600 new jobs.¹ Furthermore, the employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 10 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.²

An MLS can provide students with the expertise and credibility they need to succeed in careers such as:

Compliance officer
Corporate executive
Human resource manager
Legal assistant
Paralegal
Social worker
Police officer
Lobbyist

Who Should Earn a Master of Legal Studies Degree?

Professionals interested in earning an MLS should first consider the type of law careers for nonlawyers that they would like to enter or advance in. Developing strong legal skills in areas such as dispute resolution or compliance law can help nonlawyers make more informed business, policy, and research decisions across a wide range of industries. Professionals should pursue a legal studies degree if they are interested in: