Golden Gate University School of Law
Master of Law Studies

San Francisco, USA

DEGREE TYPE

LLM

DURATION

2 years

LANGUAGES

English

PACE

Full time, Part time

APPLICATION DEADLINE

EARLIEST START DATE

Sep 2026

STUDY FORMAT

Distance Learning, On-Campus

Key Summary

About : The Master of Law Studies (MLS) is designed for non-lawyers who want to gain a fundamental understanding of legal principles. It focuses on enhancing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and legal research abilities over the span of two years. The program equips students with knowledge applicable across various fields, integrating legal insights into their respective careers.

Career Outcomes : Graduates can pursue roles in compliance, human resources, or corporate governance. Career opportunities may also arise in policy analysis, education, or business management, providing a legal framework useful in many professional settings.

A wide range of careers today demand an understanding of law and legal principles, from corporate compliance and human relations positions to positions in government and social service agencies. GGU’s Master in Law Studies (MLS) degree prepares graduates for law-related careers that do not require a law license. MLS students learn to analyze and apply legal arguments and theories to everyday situations without the need to become a practicing attorney. MLS students gain a foundation in law and the critical thinking skills needed to work with lawyers and legal matters in legal-adjacent professions. MLS courses are taught by law faculty and students have access to all GGU School of Law academic resources. MLS courses are available in-person or online for students studying full- and part-time.