Earning a Master of Legal Studies (MLS) can lead to a variety of employment opportunities.
If you want to broaden your legal knowledge but do not want to become a lawyer, earning an MLS degree may be worthwhile.
If you live in South Carolina, you’ll want to know about MLS programs.
Below, we’ll introduce you to colleges that provide in-person MLS degrees and online.
Schools
Currently, there is only one school in South Carolina that features an MLS degree.
Another university is the Charleston School of Law, which offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
While a J.D. does overlap with what is taught in an MLS curriculum, they are not identical.
If you wish to pursue an MLS degree, consider other choices, such as online programs.
Below, we’ll discuss some of the best online MLS programs as well as a few options situated locally.
1 University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina (USC) is located in Columbia, SC, and offers a multitude of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Focused on providing next-generation education, the university strives to give the best to all its students.
Founded in 1801, the university has a rich history with notable alumni.
Courses Offered/Program Name
The Master of Studies in Law (MSL) is equivalent to an MLS program.
The University of South Carolina provides a flexible online degree program for professionals looking to improve their legal knowledge and abilities.
This curriculum builds a strong foundation in legal concepts and principles.
To complete the program, students will need to take 30 credit hours and can complete it within 12 months.
Attending students will study a variety of courses in addition to being able to choose electives.
The MSL program also allows students to choose specific areas of study, helping broaden future growth.
Some of the included areas of study are legal research and writing, contract law, tort, constitutional, and business law.
For tuition, students are encouraged to reach out to the University of South Carolina’s admissions office for more information.
Financial aid is available to students and offers flexible payment plans.
Overall, it’s an excellent program that is highly recommended.
Contact Information
- Address: 1525 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29208
- Phone: (803) 777-4155
- Website: Visit School Website
2 Charleston School of Law
Situated in Charleston, South Carolina, the Charleston School of Law is a private legal institution.
It was established in 2003, has American Bar Association (ABA) accreditation, and provides a juris doctor program.
The school focuses on educating students for successful careers in the legal profession by emphasizing public service and practical legal abilities.
Courses Offered/Program Name
The Charleston School of Law provides a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program that aims to provide students with the information, skills, and values required for a successful legal profession.
Full-time students traditionally complete the degree in three years, whereas students who study part-time need four years.
Applicants must complete a total of 90 credits, which includes coursework in several branches of law as well as experiential elements of learning, including clinics, externships, and simulations.
The school offers a Bar Exam Preparation Program to help students prepare for the bar exam, and the Career Services Office provides advice and tools for job searching and career advancement.
Contact Information
- Address: 385 Meeting Street, Charleston, S.C. 29403
- Phone: (843) 377-2143
- Website: Visit School Website
3 Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University is a private Christian academic university that provides online legal courses.
The primary campus is in Los Angeles, CA, although students can also attend remotely.
Pepperdine University was founded in 1937, and Orange University College of Law was bought in 1969.
Courses Offered/Program Name
In 24 months or 16 months if full-time, Pepperdine’s fully remote online MLS program may be completed.
Basic legal courses include contract, tort, and constitutional law.
To further a profession, students will be able to select a specialization.
The program covers fundamental legal principles and processes and is divided into eight core component courses.
After that, students have the option to select eight optional courses that will help them focus on a particular area of study.
Two in-person weekend excursions to the primary school in Malibu, California, are also available to enrolled students.
Improved networking abilities and additional chances to meet professionals in the field are a great addition.
Offering a dual degree program is another feature of Pepperdine’s online curriculum.
Students may take on an extra 20 credits to get a dual degree if they choose to pursue a Master of Dispute Resolution.
This is not required, but it might be useful for applicants who wish to pursue careers in fields involving negotiation.
Finally, the anticipated cost of tuition for an MLS degree is $66,820.
Students must set up money for supplies, textbooks, and other expenses in addition to the $2,570 cost of each unit.
Fortunately, financial aid is accepted by Pepperdine University.
Contact Information
- Address: 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90263
- Phone: (310) 506-4000
- Website: Visit School Website
4 Northeastern University School of Law
Another recognized online law school with an MLS program is Northeastern University.
Only 35 percent of candidates are accepted into the law department at this highly competitive university because of certain areas of study.
Since its founding in 1928, the university has come to be known as Northeastern University.
Courses Offered/Program Name
For those who would prefer an alternative to the traditional path of legal studies education, the institution provides an online Master of Legal Studies (MLS).
Students will, instead, study fundamental legal concepts that will equip them for careers in related sectors.
Optional courses allow students to focus on a particular area of study.
The concentrations offered for the MLS program include:
- Business law
- Health law
- Human Resources Law
- Intellectual Property Law
- Public Law and Policy
By placing a strong emphasis on analysis and study, the MLS program gives students a thorough comprehension of legal topics.
Career opportunities, communication, and legal decision-making are all improved by it.
In addition to learning the fundamentals of their focus, students will also acquire writing and verbal abilities.
A 30-credit program will cost $35,160 in tuition, which is $1,172 on average per credit.
You should expect to pay extra for textbooks, supplies, and technology.
Scholarships, grants, and loans are among the financial help alternatives offered.
Contact Information
- Address: 416 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
- Phone: (617) 373-2395
- Website: Visit School Website
5 Purdue University Global
Purdue Institution Global is an approved online institution that provides a wide range of degree programs and is ranked among the best online colleges in the United States.
Advanced flexible learning allows students to learn from a remote place without sacrificing program quality.
Courses Offered/Program Name
Purdue University Global provides an online MLS degree that demonstrates a thorough comprehension of the legal system.
The program emphasizes legal research and writing, which are taught by industry experts.
It also stresses legal analysis and fundamental ideas.
Four concentrations that are offered at Purdue are:
- Business
- Healthcare
- Environmental
- Criminal justice
After completing the curriculum, students should have a solid understanding of the legal and ethical issues.
The program places a strong emphasis on leadership development and teaches essential skills such as problem-solving and situational analysis.
Despite being an online school, Purdue assists professionals in furthering their careers and meeting their objectives.
Students who commit to full-time enrollment in the MLS program will graduate in one year.
The curriculum consists of 11 courses totaling 55 quarter credits.
Tuition is projected to cost $23,100.
However, future students should contact the institution for more accurate rates.
Contact Information
- Address: 2550 Northwestern Avenue, Suite 1100. West Lafayette, IN 47906
- Phone: 866-522-7747
- Website: Visit School Website
6 Arizona State University
The online MLS program is provided by Arizona State University (ASU) located in Tempe, AZ.
Currently, rated 36th out of 196 law schools in the U.S., the university provides a wide range of online legal and non-legal degrees.
Before receiving accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA) in 1967, ASU initially modified Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law in 1964.
Courses Offered/Program Name
ASU’s comprehensive MLS program is designed to be completely remote, allowing students to mix their studies with other responsibilities.
While the course is not self-paced, students can pick when they want to attend online classes taught by certified industry professionals.
The university’s extensive support system, which includes academic aid and professional progression possibilities, supports students throughout their learning journey.
Students will master fundamental legal ideas while expanding their expertise in a specific field.
However, the MLS degree permits students to work in any connected law subject other than law.
Students can choose a few electives from different concentrations to assist them in picking their professional path.
Here are the concentrations students can specialize in:
- Business law
- Conflict resolution
- Contract management
- Construction law
- Corporate and healthcare compliance
- Criminal law
- Etc
For a complete list of concentrations, please click here.
The ASU MLS program’s outcomes go beyond merely comprehending critical legal topics.
Students are also taught how to conceptualize, evaluate, and apply critical thinking in their subject.
This curriculum is ideal for students who want to pursue a career in law other than that of a judge or lawyer.
Tuition is anticipated at $35,160, including $1,172 per credit.
ASU offers financial help and payment arrangements based on degree.
Contact Information
- Address: 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ
- Phone: (855) 278-5080
- Website: Visit School Website
7 American University Washington College of Law
Preparing students for careers in all fields of law, the American University of Washington DC (AUWCL) is a top law school.
After being established in 1896, the institution rose to prominence as one of the best legal schools on the East Coast.
Nevertheless, AUWCL will give its students access to possibilities and solid legal contacts that only graduates have.
Courses Offered/Program Name
The MLS program at AUWCL teaches students industry-specific information that can assist professionals advance in their employment.
Students will develop a thorough grasp of the legal system thanks to a heavy emphasis on problem-solving and new policies and regulations.
Completing the MLS curriculum results in a solid grasp of the United States legal system.
Furthermore, students should be able to display competent skills that will assist them in their chosen field.
Students will also be familiar with legal terminology and current legislation, as well as possess excellent written and spoken communication skills.
Students will have the option to specialize in any of the following during the MLS program:
- Business
- Health Care Compliance
- Technology
- Cybersecurity
Thirty credits will be completed in total by students.
In as short as 12 months, full-time students should be able to finish the curriculum.
But part-time students can need up to 24 months, depending on available courses.
Students should anticipate to finish 30 credits in total.
Full-time students can expect to graduate from the program in as few as 12 months.
However, due to course availability, part-time students will require up to 24 months.
Students can reach out to the institution for additional details concerning tuition.
Tuition rates vary frequently, and the best estimate is based on the university’s financial assistance office.
Applicants can apply for financial aid, scholarships, and loans to help them pay for their education.
Contact Information
- Address: 4300 Nebraska Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
- Phone: (202) 274-4000
- Website: Visit School Website
Schools Summary Table
Legal Studies Salary Information
Salary for an MLS program graduate varies according to focus.
In South Carolina, professionals may earn between $37,000 to $58,000.
However, this is significantly dependent on geography, years of experience, competence, and other factors.
| Item | Percent |
|---|---|
$78K |
|
$87K |
|
$96K |
Average Salary in South Carolina
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Aiken | $85,589 |
| Greenville | $86,146 |
| Spartanburg | $87,166 |
| Anderson | $85,589 |
| Hilton Head Island | $86,146 |
| Summerville | $87,629 |
| Charleston | $88,093 |
| Columbia | $85,960 |
| Florence | $83,549 |
| Rock Hill | $89,762 |
Regional Salary
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston-North Charleston, SC | 1,550 | $51,190 | $24.61 | $68,540 | $37,230 |
| Columbia, SC | 1,770 | $55,170 | $26.52 | $73,460 | $38,270 |
| Florence, SC | 200 | $48,820 | $23.47 | $72,320 | $35,050 |
| Greenville-Anderson-Mauldin, SC | 1,330 | $50,470 | $24.27 | $65,780 | $35,690 |
| Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort, SC | 330 | $50,220 | $24.14 | $69,100 | $34,230 |
| Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC-NC | 600 | $46,860 | $22.53 | $61,510 | $34,180 |
| Spartanburg, SC | 240 | $50,890 | $24.47 | $70,770 | $35,740 |
| Sumter, SC | 80 | $43,510 | $20.92 | $58,950 | $28,880 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Legal Studies Programs by State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
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