This fall marks the five-year milestone of the groundbreaking launch of USC Gould School of Law’s online Master of Studies in Law (MSL) program. In that time, the innovative program has drawn non-lawyer professionals from a diverse range of industries and sectors – including business, finance, media, entertainment, human resources and health care, among others – who have expanded their career expertise with an essential legal education.
What sets the MSL program apart?
Offered through USC’s Gould School of Law, ranked among the top 20 law schools nationwide, the MSL degree is specially designed for non-lawyers interested in understanding legal issues related to their professional fields.
Students have the convenience of completing the degree 100% online, and the flexibility to study part-time — making the MSL an ideal format to balance the demands of work schedules. No LSAT or GRE test is required; and no prior law degree is required either.
The MSL degree enables graduates to redefine their role with a thorough understanding of the law. It also applies to a variety of career goals and business areas — from contracts and compliance, to finance and HR, to cybersecurity and IP. The MSL program provides students important skills and a working knowledge of the law to amplify their career impact.
Does the MSL program offer industry-specific tracks?
MSL students can customize their educational experience to meet their individual goals, by pursuing certificates aligned with their field. These certificate programs can be completed at no additional cost, as a part of your MSL education.
Industry-specific certificate programs include:
• Business Law
• Entertainment Law and Industry
• Privacy Law and Cybersecurity
• Human Resources Law and Compliance
• Financial Compliance
• Compliance
• Health Care Compliance
In addition, the MSL program recently expanded its online Entertainment Law and Industry Certificate with new course offerings that cover Dealmaking in the Entertainment Industry; Digital Media Transactions; Music Law in Practice; and Negotiation Skills.
How is the online student experience?
The online experience is interactive and flexible. Much of the online coursework and learning activities may be completed at your convenience. Each class also offers live sessions, where students attend classes together virtually in real time, enhancing the learning experience.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, USC Gould considers all applications for scholarships automatically. An additional application is not required for scholarship consideration.
To learn more about the USC Gould School of Law’s innovative MSL program, visit
bit.ly/usc-law-msl.
