Advance your impact in law enforcement
Explore top-ranked online graduate programs designed for law enforcement and public service professionals.
At The Ohio State University, we understand the unique challenges and responsibilities faced by today’s law enforcement and public safety professionals. Whether you’re looking to build legal insight and policy fluency for your current role or preparing to advance into leadership within a criminal justice organization, Ohio State offers graduate programs designed to support your goals.
Choose the Master in the Study of Law to deepen your understanding of legal systems and public policy, or pursue the Master of Public Administration and Leadership to strengthen your leadership and administrative skills in public service. With flexible, 100% online coursework designed for working professionals, you’ll gain the tools to make informed decisions, drive meaningful change, and advance your career, all without stepping away from serving your community.
Master in the Study of Law (MSL)
Offered by the Moritz College of Law, the MSL is a flexible graduate degree designed for professionals who work with legal and regulatory issues but do not intend to practice law. You’ll gain a strong foundation in legal reasoning, risk management, and regulatory compliance—skills that are essential in public service, healthcare, business, and nonprofit sectors. Specializations include Alternative Dispute Resolution, Compliance, the Legal Environment of Business, and Intellectual Property and Technology Law.
-
“Identify what you want to learn, investigate course offerings, talk to administrators to help you formulate your schedule, and really know why you want the degree so that it holds purpose and meaning to you. At Moritz College of Law, the professors genuinely want to help you become your best!”
Amy English Master in the Study of Law Grad '23 -
“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.”
Matt Busser Master in the Study of Law Grad '25 -
“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
Master of Public Administration and Leadership (MPAL)
The MPAL program is designed for mid-career professionals with more than 3 years of post-baccalaureate experience in administration or analytical roles, offering an ideal path for those who are ready to lead departments, manage teams, and shape public policy in criminal justice organizations. As part of your degree you can specialize in Criminal Justice Administration and Policy and become skilled in analyzing crime trends, evaluating correctional practices, and developing data-driven solutions to complex criminal justice issues.
-
"When comparing programs, the MPAL degree through the Glenn College at Ohio State stood out because it had leadership as a cornerstone of the curriculum. Not only do students learn the fundamentals of administration within the public sector such as budgeting and contracts, but they are also taught what good leadership entails."
Blake Petty MPAL Grad -
"My mission is to become a federal law enforcement officer and this program sets me apart in that field because it will give me the leadership skills I need to be successful in that field."
Ariel R. Law Enforcement Officer, MPAL student -
"The MPAL program has already opened new career options, and I have met a wonderful diverse group of people. The ability to engage and share experiences with peers across the country through the MPAL is something I truly appreciate and value."
Katie Laux MPAL Grad
Ready to take the next step?
If you have questions or need help getting started, complete our intake form with your program of interest and contact information. An Ohio State Online Enrollment Advisor will reach out to provide personalized guidance, walk you through the application process, and support you every step of the way.
Fast-track your career growth with graduate certificate programs.
Whether you’re exploring professional development opportunities or building a strong foundation for pursuing a master’s degree, our certificates offer in-demand skills in a flexible format. All graduate certificate credits transfer into either our MPAL or MSL degree, depending on the program.
Fast-track your career growth with graduate certificate programs.
Whether you’re exploring professional development opportunities or building a strong foundation for pursuing a master’s degree, our certificates offer in-demand skills in a flexible format. All graduate certificate credits transfer into either our MPAL or MSL degree, depending on the program.
Criminal Justice Administration Graduate Certificate
Cybersecurity Law, Policy, and Management Graduate Certificate
Public Management Graduate Certificate
Federal Policy and Management Graduate Certificate
Business Law Graduate Certificate
Health Law Graduate Certificate
Compliance Graduate Certificate
