Master in the Study of Law
December 1, 2025
January 12, 2026
Lead with legal insight.
Advance your career with the Master in the Study of Law (MSL) program at Ohio State. Offered through the Moritz College of Law, this graduate legal studies program is designed for professionals whose work regularly involves laws and regulations. Strengthen your understanding of legal reasoning and analysis while building the skills to make informed decisions, manage risk, and lead with confidence.
Make the program your own.
Choose a schedule that fits your life, with flexible full-time or part-time options. You can earn your degree fully online or in a hybrid format that combines in-person and online courses. Tailor your legal education by choosing from a wide range of electives or focusing in an area such as Alternative Dispute Resolution, Compliance, Health Law, Intellectual Property and Technology Law, or the Legal Environment of Business.
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“I got to pick what was important to me and what helped in my career. Because it was something I was truly interested in, I was able to balance my work and school and life. It was work, but it didn't feel like hard work. When you truly like something, it doesn't feel as daunting.”
Liz Kooi Master in the Study of Law Grad '24 -
“I knew that if I paired this master's program with my current job, it would be a perfect complement. Taking this class was actually helping me with my job, and my job is helping me with the program as well.”
Lauren Lutman Master in the Study of Law Student -
“I completed the program to provide better understanding and services for my patients. I have two children, and I was caring for my dad who was ill. The flexibility was huge because I couldn't have done it without.”
Audra Jordan Master in the Study of Law Grad
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Master in the Study of Law (MSL) program is designed for working professionals whose careers interface with the law on a regular basis, or who wish to advance in their fields or pivot to a new area of interest through a more in-depth understanding of the law. The MSL degree is not an alternative to the JD degree and does not qualify its graduates to take a bar exam or practice law.
After completing the Master in the Study of Law degree, you will have a deep understanding of the U.S. legal system, including the ability to comprehend legal language, grasp current legal issues, and develop vital legal skills like communication and critical thinking. This knowledge can be applied across various industries and professional fields, helping you to stand out to prospective and current employers.
No. The admission and academic requirements for each program are different. Credits earned in the MSL program will not be recognized towards a JD degree.
Designed for working professionals, Ohio State’s Master in the Study of Law offers flexible pathways to earn a premier legal education. You can complete the MSL program 100% online, take classes in person at the Columbus campus, or combine both for a hybrid learning experience. Customize your study pace for your schedule, ranging from part-time (1 to 7 credit hours) to full-time (8+ credits) per semester.
Depending on your course load, you can earn your MSL in as little as 12 months (3 semesters) or take up to four years.
No. To graduate, MSL candidates are not required to complete a master’s thesis or a capstone project.
A top-ranked legal education
The Moritz College of Law is one of the country’s premier law schools, according to U.S. News & World Report rankings:
#1 Law School in Ohio
Top 30 Law School in the Nation
#1 in Dispute Resolution
Top 20 in Health Law
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Related Programs
Whether you’re exploring professional development opportunities or building a strong foundation for a pursuing master’s degree, the Moritz College of Law’s online graduate certificates offer in-demand skills in a flexible format. Plus, you can stack earned credits toward the MSL program.
All graduate certificates require a bachelor’s degree for admission.
Navigate the complexities of business law with key skills you can immediately apply in your current role. Learn more about the Business Law Certificate.
Champion compliance in various industries. Ohio State’s Compliance Certificate equips you with the legal and operational knowledge to lead in complex regulatory environments.
Offered by Moritz in collaboration with the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, the online certificate in Cybersecurity Law, Policy, and Management provides you with interdisciplinary knowledge to advance in a growing field.
The online Health Law Certificate offers a flexible curriculum for health professionals and compliance officers navigating health care legal regulations.
Academic Calendar
As a flexible program for working professionals, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for the Master in the Study of Law degree.
Academic Calendar
As a flexible program for working professionals, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for the Master in the Study of Law degree.
Admission Criteria
To be considered for admission to the Master in the Study of Law program, applicants must have:
- At least a four-year bachelor’s degree, a graduate degree, or a professional degree by the time of matriculation into the MSL program.*
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) for the last bachelor’s or advanced degree earned.
- Demonstrated ability to succeed in the MSL program through substantial relevant work experience or successful academic performance.
* If you only have three years of post-secondary study, you must complete one of the following:
- A master’s degree (or higher)
- An approved post-graduate diploma
- An additional year of university-level coursework. This work must be completed at an accredited university.
Please note that we cannot give absolute assurance that your academic documentation will qualify you for graduate study until we have reviewed your documents. When you apply, you must provide transcripts and degree statements for all post-secondary course work at a college or university.
How to Apply
All applicants to the MSL program must submit the following materials online:
- An online application form accessible via Graduate and Professional Admissions by clicking on “Apply” under each respective application term. Please see the “Application Types” below to determine the appropriate application category for you.
- A resume (or CV)
- A statement of purpose (max. 2 pages), addressing what professional objectives the applicant aspires to achieve from their graduate study in the MSL program, and how the applicant will benefit from the legal knowledge and skills gained in the MSL program
- Letters of recommendation. Only two (2) letters of recommendation are required. It is required that the references submit a signed letter of recommendation on business letterhead. The two references should be a faculty member or one who is acquainted with your academic and scholastic ability, your qualifications and potential for graduate study, and/or your professional performance. Within a few days of submitting your application, an invitation will be emailed to each reference with a link to our online form to submit their letters of recommendation. If your reference is having trouble submitting the letter via the link we provided to them, they may submit the letter via email at moritzmsl@osu.edu.
- Official transcript(s) are required for all coursework for which credit was awarded. If you already have official transcripts in your possession, you may scan them (front and back) and submit them by attaching them to your online application portal***. If you do not have official transcripts, you must request each institution where you received credit that your transcript be sent electronically to gpadocs@osu.edu using a secure system (only U.S. institutions can use this option), or be mailed directly to the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions. Transcripts must come directly from the issuing institution; they cannot come from the applicant, even if they’re in a sealed envelope. Do not submit transcripts for course work completed at Ohio State. Learn more about transcript submissions.
***After you are admitted to the MSL program: If you submitted a scanned copy of your transcript(s) when you applied, or if you’ve graduated or completed additional course work since applying, you will be asked to request that each institution submit complete, official transcripts showing all work to date including a final grade and degrees earned to the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions before the start of your program.
If you have already submitted your application, you may log back into your application portal and upload your application materials through Admissions Uploader. View Preparing Required Materials for guidance on how to prepare your application.
Never attended an Ohio State graduate program:
MSL applicants who have not graduated from or been enrolled in an Ohio State graduate program before should follow the steps below:
- Click on “Apply” under the respective application term on this link.
- Click on “I have never attended Ohio State. Go to application.”
- Click on “Create Account.”
- Follow detailed online application instructions and submit.
Completed or currently enrolled in a graduate degree at Ohio State University:
MSL applicants who have graduated from an Ohio State graduate program, or who are currently enrolled in a graduate program at Ohio State must use the Graduate Intra University Transfer form and follow the steps below:
- Click on “Apply” under the respective application term on this link.
- Click on “I am a former Ohio State Student. Go to application” or “I am a current Ohio State Student. Go to application.”
- Click on “Create Account” (if a former Ohio State graduate student) or log in with your Ohio State username.# and password (if a current Ohio State graduate student)
- Start a new Graduate application and select “Graduate Intra-University Transfer.”
- Follow detailed online application instructions and submit.
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
International Students
International applicants should be aware that this is not an LLM program and will not qualify a foreign trained lawyer to practice law in the United States or to sit for a bar examination. If you have already earned a first law degree in your home country, you should explore The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law’s Master of Laws (LLM) Program instead.
Applicants whose first language is not English must submit English scores to show English proficiency. The minimum English scores required for international students are:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 80 internet-based, 550 paper-based or 213 computer-based.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5
- Duolingo (minimum score 120)
Exemptions from the English proficiency requirement:
Applicants who are permanent residents or citizens of or who have completed a degree in one of the following countries are exempt from the English proficiency requirement: Australia, Belize, the British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, Singapore, the United States and Wales.
Applicants who have held U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee status for at least one year from the first term of enrollment are also exempt from the English proficiency requirement.
Sending Test Scores
You must have taken an English test within the past two years. TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores must be sent directly to Ohio State. For TOEFL score reports, Ohio State’s institution code is #1592.
For international applicants who need to request an F-1 or J-1 visa: While such students can apply and be considered for admission to the MSL program, please note that the MSL program is an online program. Therefore, The Ohio State University will not issue or assist with obtaining immigration documents for purposes of participation in this program. If you are currently in F-1 or J-1 status in the United States, please consult with your international student or scholar advisor to ensure that attending these classes or taking fully online classes will not affect your immigration status. If you are not sure whether your current immigration status permits study, please consult with your own immigration attorney.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
Whether you want to advance in your field or pivot careers through a more in-depth understanding of the law, Ohio State’s online Master in the Study of Law can elevate your professional journey. The MSL degree’s flexibility allows you to design your own curriculum that best aligns with your career goals. The program equips you with the legal knowledge you need to work in a wide range of potential careers.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Work Activities
Prepare detailed reports on audit findings. Report to management about asset utilization and audit results, and recommend changes in operations and financial activities. Collect and analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance with laws, regulations, and management policies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $52,780
- Mid Level: $81,680
- Senior Level: $141,420
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
- Budget Analysts
- Financial Examiners
- Tax Preparers
- Treasurers and Controllers
Job Sectors
- Economics and Accounting
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.
Work Activities
Determine existence and amount of liability according to current laws, administrative and judicial precedents, and available evidence. Monitor and direct the activities of trials and hearings to ensure that they are conducted fairly and that courts administer justice while safeguarding the legal rights of all involved parties. Prepare written opinions and decisions.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $56,970
- Mid Level: $115,230
- Senior Level: $203,990
Job Outlook
Below Average
Projected Growth
2.1%
Related Careers
- Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
- Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators
- Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
- Judicial Law Clerks
- Lawyers
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administrative
- Medicine and Dentistry
What They Do
Represent and promote artists, performers, and athletes in dealings with current or prospective employers. May handle contract negotiation and other business matters for clients.
Work Activities
Collect fees, commissions, or other payments, according to contract terms. Send samples of clients' work and other promotional material to potential employers to obtain auditions, sponsorships, or endorsement deals. Keep informed of industry trends and deals.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $48,530
- Mid Level: $96,310
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
9.2%
Related Careers
- Advertising and Promotions Managers
- Advertising Sales Agents
- Public Relations Specialists
- Talent Directors
- Writers and Authors
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Sales and Marketing
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Fine Arts
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
Work Activities
Report violations of compliance or regulatory standards to duly authorized enforcement agencies as appropriate or required. Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation. Discuss emerging compliance issues to ensure that management and employees are informed about compliance reporting systems, policies, and practices.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Compliance Officers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Management Analysts
- Regulatory Affairs Managers
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Personnel and Human Resources
What They Do
Monitor and evaluate compliance with equal opportunity laws, guidelines, and policies to ensure that employment practices and contracting arrangements give equal opportunity without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
Work Activities
Investigate employment practices or alleged violations of laws to document and correct discriminatory factors. Prepare reports related to investigations of equal opportunity complaints. Interview persons involved in equal opportunity complaints to verify case information.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,230
- Mid Level: $78,420
- Senior Level: $130,030
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
5.4%
Related Careers
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs
- Human Resources Managers
- Human Resources Specialists
- Labor Relations Specialists
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Customer and Personal Service
- Sociology and Anthropology
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
Work Activities
Serve as a link between management and employees by handling questions, interpreting and administering contracts and helping resolve work-related problems. Advise managers on organizational policy matters, such as equal employment opportunity and sexual harassment, and recommend needed changes. Analyze and modify compensation and benefits policies to establish competitive programs and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $83,790
- Mid Level: $140,030
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.5%
Related Careers
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
- Human Resources Specialists
- Management Analysts
- Training and Development Managers
Job Sectors
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Education and Training
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
Work Activities
Direct, supervise and evaluate work activities of medical, nursing, technical, clerical, service, maintenance, and other personnel. Develop and maintain computerized record management systems to store and process data, such as personnel activities and information, and to produce reports. Plan, implement, and administer programs and services in a health care or medical facility, including personnel administration, training, and coordination of medical, nursing and physical plant staff.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $69,680
- Mid Level: $117,960
- Senior Level: $219,080
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
28.5%
Related Careers
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- Health Education Specialists
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Social and Community Service Managers
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Education and Training
What They Do
Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.
Work Activities
Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system. Prepare, edit, or review legal documents, including legislation, briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements. Investigate facts and law of cases and search pertinent sources, such as public records and internet sources, to determine causes of action and to prepare cases.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $39,710
- Mid Level: $61,010
- Senior Level: $98,990
Job Outlook
Below Average
Projected Growth
1.2%
Related Careers
- Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners
- Court, Municipal, and License Clerks
- Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
- Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
- Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Administrative
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the selling, buying, leasing, or governance activities of commercial, industrial, or residential real estate properties. Includes managers of homeowner and condominium associations, rented or leased housing units, buildings, or land (including rights-of-way).
Work Activities
Prepare detailed budgets and financial reports for properties. Manage and oversee operations, maintenance, administration, and improvement of commercial, industrial, or residential properties. Plan, schedule, and coordinate general maintenance, major repairs, and remodeling or construction projects for commercial or residential properties.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $39,360
- Mid Level: $66,700
- Senior Level: $141,040
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
3.2%
Related Careers
- Appraisers and Assessors of Real Estate
- Facilities Managers
- Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products
- Real Estate Brokers
- Real Estate Sales Agents
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- Economics and Accounting
- English Language
- Law and Government
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate production activities of an organization to ensure compliance with regulations and standard operating procedures.
Work Activities
Develop regulatory strategies and implementation plans for the preparation and submission of new products. Review all regulatory agency submission materials to ensure timeliness, accuracy, comprehensiveness, or compliance with regulatory standards. Direct the preparation and submission of regulatory agency applications, reports, or correspondence.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Compliance Managers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Management Analysts
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Administration and Management
- Biology
- Education and Training
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
Work Activities
Establish and oversee administrative procedures to meet objectives set by boards of directors or senior management. Direct activities of professional and technical staff members and volunteers. Evaluate the work of staff and volunteers to ensure that programs are of appropriate quality and that resources are used effectively.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $50,020
- Mid Level: $78,240
- Senior Level: $129,820
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
8.2%
Related Careers
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers
- Community Health Workers
- Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare
- Healthcare Social Workers
- Rehabilitation Counselors
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Psychology
- Education and Training
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
To earn an MSL degree, you have flexible part- and full-time options and the choice of in-person and online learning. You will be required to complete at least 30 credits. You may pursue a General Track and select any courses that suit your interests and schedule, or focus on an area of concentration (Concentration Track) that aligns with your career needs and goals.
All MSL students, whether pursuing a concentration or not, are required to take two foundational online courses:
LAW 8525 – Intro to US Legal Systems
The course introduces the basic structure of the U.S. legal system, including the Constitution, the separation of powers, and federalism. It spans the foundational principles underlying many substantive areas of law, including — among other topics — administrative law, contracts, criminal law, property, and torts. The course also describes the adversary system, the state and federal court systems, and the legal profession generally. Offered in Fall and Summer.
LAW 8550 – Legal Research and Writing
The course provides a foundation in conducting legal research, reading legal materials, and analyzing those materials. It helps you learn how to find, read, and use cases, statutes, and secondary materials. You’ll also develop an understanding of how to review contracts by learning contract drafting style and conventions, key types of provisions (such as declarations, covenants, and representations and warranties), and important contractual provisions. Finally, you’ll hone your writing skills by learning how lawyers communicate and how to communicate like lawyers, both informally (through, for example, email correspondence) as well as in more formal persuasive writing. Offered in Spring and Summer.
Personalize your MSL degree and design your own curriculum that meets your career goals. With the General Track, you can enroll fully online or take any combination of both online and in-person courses. Online courses are MSL-only courses, and in-person courses are mixed JD-MSL courses. Your academic advisor will work with you to select courses that meet your career goals.
Concentrations are not required for graduation in the MSL program. You can personalize your MSL education by pursuing the Concentration Track and choosing specialized courses that align with your career needs and goals.
To graduate with a concentration, you must take 12-15 credits of core and elective courses within each concentration. To complete the remaining credits needed to complete the 30-credit requirement, you can select any other courses of personal interest.
Compliance Concentration
Compliance is a broad and growing field that cuts across all areas of law and all industries. You’ll develop skills in analyzing risks and designing and managing compliance functions and learn about topics like regulatory compliance, HR compliance, financial crime, data privacy compliance, and healthcare compliance.
You must take all five Compliance Concentration courses (15 credit hours) to earn your Master in the Study of Law with the Compliance Concentration.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7228 – Regulatory Compliance | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7229 – Health Care Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8530 – Financial Services Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7805 – Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – HR Compliance | Autumn | Online | 3 |
If you wish to take additional compliance-related courses to satisfy your MSL elective credit hours, the list below includes recommended compliance-related courses at the Moritz College of Law.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 8109 – Employment Discrimination Law | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – Federal Income Taxation | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7804 – Law of Cyberspace | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7215 – Securities | Spring | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 7209 – Accounting for Lawyers | Autumn | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 8189.40: Compliance Externship* | Autumn/Spring | In-person | 3 |
To meet the 30-credit requirement for the Master in the Study of Law degree, you may complete the remaining credits in any other Compliance concentration courses listed above and/or any other online or in-person courses in other fields of law available to MSL students.
Health Law Concentration
Health care is one of the most regulated industries in the world, leading to a host of legal and bioethical questions, as well as one of the fastest-growing areas of law. This concentration introduces professionals working in the healthcare sector to the fundamentals of health law and heath care compliance. MSL candidates interested in this concentration may also select a wide range of health law related courses to gain well-rounded knowledge of different aspects of health law, such as biotechnology and the law, food and drug law, public health law, and torts.
You must take the following two core courses.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 8809 – Health Law | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7229 – Health Care Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
You may complete the remaining credits to meet the 12-credit requirement in Health Law coursework from among the elective concentration courses below.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 6121 – Contracts | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7805 – Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7228 – Regulatory Compliance | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8535 – Introduction to Tech & IP Transactions | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8811 – Food and Drug Law* | Spring | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 8896.38 – Marijuana Law and Policy* | Spring | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 7812 – Patent Prosecution | Spring | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 8810 – Public Health Law | Spring | In-person | 3 |
To meet the 30-credit requirement for the Master in the Study of Law degree, you may complete the remaining credits in any other Health Law concentration courses listed above and/or any other online or in-person courses in other fields of law available to MSL students.
Legal Environment of Business Concentration
A study of the statutory and common law governing the business environment, this concentration provides the opportunity to learn the different sets of rules and regulations affecting businesses, such as business formation, employment and labor law, contracts, taxation, regulatory compliance, and more.
You must take the following two core courses.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7200 – Business Associations | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 6121 – Contracts | Autumn | Online | 3 |
You may complete the remaining credits to meet the 12-credit requirement in Legal Environment of Business coursework from among the elective concentration courses below.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7805 – Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8109 – Employment Discrimination Law | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – Federal Income Taxation | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8530 – Financial Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – HR Compliance | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8535 – Introduction to Tech and IP Transactions | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7228 – Regulatory Compliance | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7112 – Dispute Resolution Processes* | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7113 – Dispute Resolution in Employment | Autumn | Hybrid | 2 |
| LAW 7215 – Securities | Spring | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 7225 – Financial Regulation Law and Policy | Autumn | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 8889 – Crypto & FinTech Litigation & Dispute Resolution* | Autumn | In-person | 1 |
To meet the 30-credit requirement for the Master in the Study of Law degree, you may complete the remaining credits in any other Business Law concentration courses listed above and/or any other online or in-person courses in other fields of law available to MSL students.
Intellectual Property and Technology Law Concentration
With recent scientific and technological advances, the interaction between law and technology has become increasingly important and complex. This concentration includes study in the principal forms of intellectual property protection – copyright, trademark and patent law, as well as issues related to law of cyberspace, privacy, cybersecurity, and technology.
You must take at least three of the following Intellectual Property and Technology Law core courses.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7804 – Law of Cyberspace | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7805 – Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and Compliance | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – Introduction to Tech & IP Transactions | Summer | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7815 – Introduction to Intellectual Property | Autumn | In-person | 3 |
You may complete the remaining credits from among the core courses above and/or the elective concentration courses below to meet the minimum 12-credit requirement in IP and Technology Law coursework.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 6121 – Contracts | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7800 – Copyright Law | Spring | In-person | 4 |
| LAW 7803 – Trademark Law | Spring | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 7812 – Patent Prosecution | Spring | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 7809 – Patent Law | Autumn | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 8811 – Food & Drug Law* | Spring | In-person | 3 |
To meet the 30-credit requirement for the Master in the Study of Law degree, you may complete the remaining credits in any other IP and Technology Law concentration courses listed above and/or any other online or in-person courses in other fields of law available to MSL students.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Concentration
Increasingly, courts are moving beyond traditional trials and appeals to help clients find satisfactory resolutions to their agreements. Negotiation, mediation, arbitration and other out-of-court processes are helping parties reach a satisfying outcome. This concentration is for those interested in alternative dispute resolution, in professional roles involving transactions, relationship building, or conflict management, as well as in management and leadership.
You must take the following two core courses.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7106 – Legal Negotiation | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – Mediation | Spring | Online | 3 |
You may complete the remaining credits to meet the 15-credit requirement in Alternative Dispute Resolution coursework from among the elective concentration courses below.
| Course | Semester | Modality | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW 7103 – Arbitration* | Autumn | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 8889 – Arbitration Practice* | Autumn | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 8889 – Contracts | Autumn | Online | 3 |
| LAW 7602 – Family and Divorce Mediation | Autumn | In-person | 2 |
| LAW 7124 – International Dispute Resolution | Autumn | In-person | 3 |
| LAW 7112 – Dispute Resolution Processes | Spring | Online | 3 |
| LAW 8950 – Resolving Community Civil Rights Disputes | Spring | In-person | 1 |
| Any 1-credit in-person course in ADR | Spring or Autumn | In-person | 1 |
To meet the 30-credit requirement for the Master in the Study of Law degree, you may complete the remaining credits in any other Alternative Dispute Resolution concentration courses listed above and/or any other online or in-person courses in other fields of law available to MSL students.
Program Faculty
In Ohio State’s Master in the Study of Law program, you’ll gain first-hand knowledge from legal experts. The graduate-level courses are led by esteemed Moritz College of Law faculty and seasoned practitioners who practice their subject matters on a daily basis.
Moritz College of Law
The Ohio State University
The Michael E. Moritz College of Law, founded in 1891, is a top-ranked law school in Ohio and one of the nation’s pre-eminent public law schools. With approximately 570 students and over 50 faculty members, it’s known for its rigorous academic program, research, commitment to teaching, and development of future leaders. Its alumni include justices of the Supreme Court of Ohio, federal judges, senators, representatives, governors, CEOs, and prominent attorneys.
“Virtually every job and industry—from the private, nonprofit, or government sectors—are impacted by regulation, legislation, and litigation. The Master in the Study of Law (MSL) program at Moritz provides an exceptional opportunity for professionals seeking a greater understanding of the law without becoming an attorney. The online MSL program will equip professionals with the tools to meet the demands of navigating risk, compliance, and the rapidly changing legal environment.”
“The Master in the Study of Law (MSL) program provides students a strong foundation in law that they can put to use in any industry or career that intersects with legal matters such as contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, employment matters, and litigation (avoidance and defense). Students will gain knowledge and acquire skills that will enable them to anticipate and understand potential legal issues, and to be an informed partner to legal counsel. In that way, the MSL program gives students a strategic mindset that will help advance a student’s career.”
MSL Course Instructors
For contact information and faculty biographies, visit the Moritz College of Law faculty directory.
MSL Course Instructors
For contact information and faculty biographies, visit the Moritz College of Law faculty directory.
Elizabeth Anstaett
Financial ComplianceMarcel Duhamel
Law of CyberspaceBill Froehlich
MediationKevin Grether
Regulatory ComplianceStephanie Hanna
Legal NegotiationsKirk Herath
Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and ComplianceSarah Kaiser
Federal Income TaxNatasha Landon
Legal Research and WritingMax Reisinger
ContractsColleen Settineri
Legal Research and WritingTodd Starker
Intro to US Legal SystemsTrent Stechschulte
Healthcare ComplianceLiz Stokes
Health LawKevin Tabor
Federal Income TaxLaura Vlieg
Legal Research and WritingMindi Wells
HR Compliance, Employment Discrimination LawTestimonials
Find out how learning the law has helped Ohio State’s Master in the Study of Law graduates elevate their careers.
“The professors made it really easy. They have this real-world experience, and they're able to relate to things that I've experienced. Because a lot of the class was online, they always made themselves available. If I had a question, they were quick to respond.”
“As a working professional with a family, I knew it would not be feasible for me to pursue a JD program. I am grateful that Ohio State provided this opportunity for someone like me interested in gaining more knowledge of specific legal practices, regulations, and laws that could help further a current career path or a different career path such as myself. You are able to select the courses in which you have a personal and professional interest, and the program now offers courses specifically for MSL student lifestyles. I have been in higher education my whole life but having an opportunity to make a career change has been the best decision I made when pursuing and completing the program.”
“The highlight of the MSL program has been applying real-world scenarios I am interested in to our coursework. We have had the opportunity to discuss everything from restructuring NFL contracts to settling disputes between record labels and their recording artists. I cannot recall a time I have been more interested in my coursework.”
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program.
Part-Time Tuition
The estimated cost per semester for part-time tuition assumes you’ll be enrolled in six credit hours; most MSL students take two consecutive seven-week courses at three credit hours each.
| Tuition Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $929.50 | $5,577.00 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 |
Full-Time Tuition
| Tuition Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $1,193.00 | $9,544.00 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $261.00 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 |
Financial Aid Resource
Financial Aid Resource
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