Business Law Degree Courses & Concentrations for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

What is a business law degree, and what does it cover?

A business law degree is an academic program designed to teach students the legal principles that govern business operations, commercial transactions, and corporate governance.

This degree combines foundational legal studies with business-oriented coursework, preparing graduates for roles in law firms, corporate offices, government agencies, or consulting firms. Students gain knowledge in contract law, regulatory compliance, dispute resolution, and ethical decision-making, which are critical for navigating today’s complex business landscape.

The curriculum often includes core legal subjects alongside business courses to develop analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills. For students seeking a faster path to legal knowledge, options like the shortest online master's of legal studies programs can provide a condensed format.

Depending on the program, students may also choose concentrations such as intellectual property, tax law, or international business law to align their education with career goals.

What courses are typically included in a business law degree?

A business law degree is designed to bridge the gap between legal expertise and business acumen, preparing graduates to navigate everything from contracts and compliance to international trade disputes. While each school structures its program a little differently, most degrees combine a strong foundation in core legal subjects, a range of business-focused classes, and opportunities to specialize in areas of interest.

Core Legal Courses

At the heart of the program are traditional law courses that give you the legal reasoning skills to analyze and solve complex problems. Expect to study:

• Contracts – how agreements are created, enforced, and interpreted.
• Torts – understanding liability, negligence, and protections in civil disputes.
• Property Law – covering ownership, leasing, and land use, all of which tie directly into business and real estate.
• Constitutional Law & Civil Procedure – essential for understanding how laws are structured, applied, and challenged within the U.S. legal system.

Business and Management Courses

Because this degree isn’t purely legal, you’ll also take classes that build your business literacy. Programs usually include:

• Accounting and Finance – to understand balance sheets, investments, and the financial health of organizations.
• Economics – both micro and macro, so you can connect legal decisions with market behavior.
• Management and Organizational Behavior – useful for understanding how people work within companies and how law influences corporate culture.

Together, these courses prepare you to think not only like a lawyer but also like an executive or entrepreneur.

Specialized Business Law Courses

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can dig deeper into areas that align with your career interests. Common examples include:

• Corporate Law – everything from forming companies to mergers, acquisitions, and shareholder rights.
• Employment and Labor Law – covering workplace rights, employer obligations, and union issues.
• Intellectual Property Law – trademarks, copyrights, and patents, which are critical for protecting ideas in tech, media, and creative industries.
• International Business Transactions – perfect for students interested in global trade, import/export regulations, or multinational corporations.
• Tax Law – diving into how businesses are taxed and how to legally minimize liabilities.

These classes are highly practical, giving you the expertise to advise companies, negotiate deals, and prevent legal disputes.

Practical Skills Training

Unlike purely theoretical programs, business law degrees also emphasize hands-on skills that translate directly to the workplace. You might take:

• Legal Writing and Research – to master clear, persuasive communication.
• Negotiation and Mediation – teaching you how to resolve conflicts without going to court.
• Trial Advocacy or Moot Court – giving you practice in presenting arguments, analyzing evidence, and thinking quickly under pressure.

These courses make sure you graduate with confidence not only in your knowledge but also in your ability to use it. 

Interestingly, some students who first explore unrelated majors—such as alternative biology careers—later transition into business law to align with interests in corporate compliance or regulatory work. This shows the flexibility of business law programs to accommodate diverse academic backgrounds.

How long does it usually take to obtain a business law degree?

For most students, obtaining a business law degree can take anywhere from seven to eight years in total, depending on the program level and career goals. A bachelor’s degree in a related field typically requires four years, followed by a three-year Juris Doctor (JD) program for those pursuing legal practice.

Students who opt for accelerated or combined programs, such as a JD/MBA, may be able to shorten this timeline slightly, while part-time or online programs may extend it.

Online or part-time programs can extend the timeline but offer more flexibility for working professionals, including those exploring career shifts, such as how to get into criminal law as a paralegal before advancing to a business law degree. Some universities also provide accelerated or dual-degree options, such as a JD/MBA, which can reduce the overall completion time.

Factors such as prior academic credits, course load per semester, and whether the program follows a semester, trimester, or year-round format can significantly influence how long it takes to finish a business law degree.

What skills do you gain from a business law degree?

A business law degree not only imparts legal knowledge but also develops a range of practical and analytical skills essential for success in legal, corporate, and consulting roles. These skills help graduates navigate complex business environments, manage risks, and make informed decisions that support organizational goals.

For instance, the emphasis on communication, negotiation, and ethical decision-making often parallels what professionals develop in healthcare or social sciences. Just as training programs highlight the responsibilities tied to the scope of practice for FNP, business law programs prepare graduates to understand the boundaries of legal authority and apply them responsibly in professional contexts.

Take note of the following skills you could gain:

• Legal research and analysis: Students learn to evaluate statutes, case law, and regulations, applying them to real-world business scenarios. This skill ensures they can provide accurate legal advice and mitigate potential risks.
• Negotiation and conflict resolution: Coursework teaches techniques for reaching favorable agreements and resolving disputes efficiently. Graduates gain the ability to mediate between parties and protect business interests.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Business law programs emphasize analyzing complex legal issues and identifying effective solutions. This competency is vital for advising organizations and structuring legally sound strategies.
• Communication and presentation skills: Students practice drafting contracts, writing legal opinions, and presenting arguments clearly. These abilities are critical for client interactions and courtroom advocacy.
• Understanding of business operations: Courses provide insight into how legal frameworks impact corporate decision-making and strategy. Graduates can bridge the gap between legal compliance and business performance.
• Ethical decision-making: Students develop the ability to identify legal and ethical issues in business practices. This skill ensures they can guide organizations toward responsible and compliant operations.
• Time management and organization: Legal coursework and case analysis require careful planning and prioritization. Graduates learn to handle demanding workloads and meet strict deadlines in professional settings.

What are the typical admission requirements for a business law degree?

Admission to a business law degree program generally requires a strong academic background and, in some cases, relevant professional or pre-law experience. Requirements vary by degree level (undergraduate, graduate, or JD), but most schools look for indicators of academic readiness and analytical skills necessary for legal studies.

• Educational background: Undergraduate programs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, while graduate and JD programs require a bachelor’s degree. Some schools may prefer coursework in business, law, or related fields.
• Minimum GPA requirements: Many competitive programs expect a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Higher-ranking law schools may require stronger academic performance for consideration.
• Standardized test scores: Some programs may require LAST or GMAT scores, particularly at the graduate or JD level. However, test-optional policies are becoming more common at select institutions.
• Letters of recommendation: Schools often request recommendations from teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to a student’s academic abilities and potential for legal studies. These references strengthen an applicant's profile.
• Personal statement or essay: Applicants are usually asked to submit a statement explaining their career goals, interest in business law, and how the program aligns with their aspirations. This helps admissions committees assess motivation and fit.

What careers can you pursue with a business law degree?

A business law degree opens diverse career pathways across legal, corporate, and regulatory environments. Graduates can work in traditional legal roles, corporate advisory positions, or compliance and risk management sectors. Below are some of the most common career options with potential salary ranges and key responsibilities:

• Corporate Lawyer ($144,688): Corporate lawyers handle mergers, acquisitions, intellectual property, and compliance matters for businesses. They provide legal counsel to ensure companies operate within the law and mitigate risks.
• Compliance Officer ($98,949): Compliance officers develop and implement policies to ensure adherence to legal and regulatory standards. They monitor internal practices and conduct audits to prevent violations and penalties.
• Contract Manager ($106,387): Contract managers draft, review, and negotiate agreements for organizations across industries. They ensure that terms are legally sound and favorable to the business.
• Business Consultant ($116,358): Business consultants advise companies on legal and operational strategies to improve efficiency and reduce risks. They often work closely with management to ensure regulatory compliance and sustainable growth.
• In-House Counsel ($198,753): In-house counsel provides direct legal support to a company, handling everything from employment law to corporate governance. For professionals considering complementary credentials like an accelerated master's in taxation management online degree, this role also offers opportunities to integrate advanced tax knowledge into corporate strategy.

Pursuing a career with a business law degree offers a wide range of professional opportunities, from corporate legal practice to strategic consulting and compliance management. These roles not only provide competitive salaries but also offer long-term career growth in industries where legal expertise is critical to business success.

The chart below highlights potential career paths, average salary ranges, and key responsibilities, giving prospective students a clear overview of where a business law degree can lead.

What concentrations are available in business law programs?

Business law programs often allow students to choose concentrations that align with specific career goals, legal interests, or industry demands. These specializations provide advanced knowledge in niche areas of law and help graduates position themselves for higher-paying and specialized roles.

Corporate Law

This concentration on business formation, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. Students learn how to advise companies on structuring deals, ensuring regulatory compliance, and mitigating legal risks during major transactions.

Intellectual Property Law

This covers patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. This concentration prepares students to protect creative assets, negotiate licensing agreements, and handle infringement disputes in industries like technology, media, and pharmaceuticals.

Tax Law

This explores federal, state, and international taxation, along with compliance and planning strategies. Students develop expertise in complex tax codes, learn to design tax-efficient strategies, and assist clients in audits or disputes with tax authorities.

International Business Law

This emphasizes trade regulations, cross-border transactions, and global compliance standards. Similar to programs such as an accelerated online bachelor's degree in economics, this concentration prepares graduates with analytical skills to navigate global financial and regulatory frameworks. Graduates gain insights into international contracts, trade agreements, and dispute resolution in a globalized economy.

Employment and Labor Law

Focuses on workplace regulations, employee rights, and organizational compliance. Students study labor relations, employment contracts, and legal frameworks for addressing workplace disputes, discrimination, and benefits policies.

Bankruptcy and Financial Restructuring Law

Deals with insolvency, debt negotiation, and restructuring strategies. This concentration trains students to represent creditors, debtors, and corporations in complex financial proceedings.

Environmental and Sustainability Law

Concentrates on regulations related to environmental protection and corporate sustainability practices. Students explore legal frameworks governing pollution control, resource management, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance initiatives.

What is the difference between an MBA in Business Law and a JD with a Business Law concentration?

An MBA in Business Law and a JD with a Business Law concentration differ primarily in focus, career outcomes, and depth of legal training.

An MBA in Business Law is a business-focused degree with an emphasis on legal concepts relevant to management, compliance, and corporate decision-making. It is designed for professionals who want to integrate legal awareness into business strategy without practicing law. Graduates typically pursue careers in executive leadership, risk management, consulting, or compliance roles where legal knowledge complements business expertise.

A JD (Juris Doctor) with a Business Law concentration, on the other hand, is a professional law degree that qualifies graduates to sit for the bar exam and practice law. This program provides a deep understanding of legal principles, litigation, and corporate law, preparing students for careers as attorneys, in-house counsel, or legal advisors.

While an MBA offers a broader business perspective, a JD provides in-depth legal training. Choosing between them is often about career goals. For example, some professionals with dual interests—like those pursuing RN MBA jobs—may find the MBA pathway more aligned with leadership ambitions, while others drawn to legal advocacy will prefer the JD route.

Key Differences

• Program Focus: MBA programs emphasize business management and strategy with legal applications, while JD programs focus on in-depth legal training and case law.
• Career Path: MBA graduates often work in executive, consulting, or compliance roles, while JD graduates become practicing attorneys or in-house legal counsel.
• Licensure: Only JD graduates are eligible to sit for the bar exam and obtain a license to practice law.
• Time to Complete: MBA programs typically take 1–2 years, whereas JD programs usually require three years of full-time study.
• Depth of Legal Study: JD programs provide comprehensive legal training, while MBA programs offer an overview of legal principles within a business context.

Is business law a good major for future career growth?

According to U.S. labor market projections, overall employment in business and financial occupations is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033.

Approximately 963,500 openings are projected each year, on average, creating strong demand for professionals with legal and business expertise. This trend suggests that a business law major offers not only immediate career opportunities but also long-term job stability and earning potential.

Additionally, the versatility of a business law degree allows graduates to adapt to evolving industries and emerging legal challenges, such as cybersecurity law, international trade regulations, and corporate sustainability compliance. For students comparing different legal career paths and criminal justice jobs salary data, this flexibility can highlight the earning potential of business law roles.

As businesses expand globally and face increasingly complex regulatory environments, professionals with a strong foundation in both law and business will be well-positioned to secure leadership roles and advance their careers over time.

What additional licenses or certifications do business law graduates need to practice?

Business law graduates may need specific licenses or certifications depending on their career path and whether they plan to practice law, work in compliance, or enter specialized legal fields.

Below are key credentials often required or beneficial for advancing in this profession:

• Bar Admission (Law License): Graduates who wish to practice as attorneys must pass the state bar exam and meet character and fitness requirements. This license is mandatory for providing legal counsel and representing clients in court.
• Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP): The Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) credential demonstrates expertise in corporate compliance, risk management, and ethical business practices. It is ideal for graduates pursuing compliance officer or corporate governance roles.
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): Business law professionals working in finance, investment, or securities law may pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. It validates advanced knowledge of financial analysis, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP): The Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) certification is essential for those specializing in data privacy and cybersecurity law. It signifies proficiency in privacy laws and risk mitigation strategies.
• Mediation or Arbitration Certification: Students interested in alternative dispute resolution can pursue mediation or arbitration certifications. These credentials allow graduates to guide parties toward legally sound agreements outside of litigation.

In certain contexts, graduates also compare their licensing journey to other professional fields. For instance, law students often weigh requirements much like those in healthcare, where professionals might ask can NP prescribe medication to understand the legal limits of their roles.

What are some of the top-paying industries for lawyers in the U.S.?

Lawyers can specialize in various practice areas, and compensation often depends on the industry and type of legal work performed. Some legal specializations command significantly higher salaries due to the complexity of the field, demand for expertise, and potential financial stakes involved.

• Patent Attorney ($247,842): Patent attorneys assist clients in securing patents and protecting intellectual property rights. Their work often involves advanced technical knowledge and collaboration with inventors and innovators.
• Corporate Attorney ($206,314): Corporate attorneys handle mergers, acquisitions, contracts, and governance for large businesses. They ensure transactions are legally sound and that companies meet regulatory obligations.
• Tax Attorney ($102,000): Tax attorneys advise individuals and organizations on federal, state, and international tax laws. They develop strategies to minimize tax liability and represent clients in disputes with tax authorities.
• Family Lawyer ($110,033): Family lawyers handle cases involving divorce, child custody, and adoption. While not the highest paying, this field offers consistent demand and opportunities for specialization in complex cases.
• Bankruptcy Lawyer ($102,333): Bankruptcy lawyers guide individuals and businesses through financial restructuring or liquidation. They work to protect clients' assets while complying with federal bankruptcy laws.
• Intellectual Property Attorney ($188,072): Intellectual property attorneys safeguard clients’ creative works, trademarks, and proprietary technologies. They play a key role in litigation, licensing, and IP portfolio management.

Choosing the right legal specialization can significantly influence earning potential and career trajectory, just as selecting programs like an accelerated graduate certificate in supply chain and logistics management online can shape business-focused careers.

The chart below illustrates these high-paying legal fields, showcasing salary ranges and the unique roles each plays within the U.S. legal market.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their business law degrees:

Other things you should know about business law degree courses and concentrations

Can you complete a business law degree online?

Yes, many universities offer fully online or hybrid business law programs to accommodate working professionals or students needing flexible schedules. Online degrees typically cover the same core curriculum as on-campus programs, including contract law, corporate governance, and compliance.

Some programs may include virtual internships, discussion-based case studies, and live legal simulations to provide practical experience. Accreditation is essential when selecting an online program to ensure quality and recognition in the job market.

Are internships required for business law degrees?

While not always mandatory, internships are highly recommended as they provide real-world experience in legal and corporate environments. Many programs integrate internships, externships, or clinical opportunities as part of their curriculum to develop practical skills.

Students gain exposure to legal research, compliance processes, and client interaction under professional supervision. Completing an internship can significantly improve job prospects and help build a professional network.

Do business law programs prepare you for the bar exam?

Undergraduate or MBA-level business law programs typically do not qualify students to sit for the bar exam; a Juris Doctor (JD) degree is required for that. However, courses in contracts, corporate law, and legal ethics provide a strong foundation for future legal studies.

Students planning to become licensed attorneys often pursue a business law concentration within a JD program. This pathway ensures comprehensive preparation for both bar requirements and specialized practice.

How do concentrations impact career opportunities?

Concentrations allow students to develop expertise in high-demand legal areas such as tax law, intellectual property, or international business law. Specializing can lead to higher salaries and positions in niche industries requiring advanced knowledge. Employers often seek candidates with targeted skills, making graduates with specialized training more competitive.

By selecting the right concentration, students can align their education with their long-term career goals and industry needs.