Is a Master of Legal Studies Worth It for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Compliance is a growing field, with 383,620 compliance officers in the US earning an average salary of $80,190. Many professionals see it as a stable and well-paying career, and a Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is often considered a direct pathway into compliance and other legal-adjacent roles. However, questions about the degree’s cost, job market value, and comparison to other credentials make some hesitant. This article will break down what an MLS offers, who benefits most from it, and whether it leads to strong career outcomes. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of whether earning an MLS aligns with your professional goals.

Key Things You Should Know About Whether Master of Legal Studies Degrees Are Worth It

• A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) can lead to well-paying careers, but salaries vary. The average salary for MLS degree holders is $60,327, ranging from $17,500 to $125,000, depending on industry and experience. Compliance officers, a common role for MLS graduates, earn an average of $80,190 per year.
• The MLS is best suited for professionals in legal-adjacent fields. It benefits those in compliance, human resources, healthcare administration, and finance who need legal expertise but do not intend to practice law as attorneys.
• Compliance is the most common career path for MLS graduates. There are 383,620 compliance officers in the US, with strong demand in government, corporate management, and financial industries. The federal government offers some of the highest salaries, averaging $94,320 annually.
• The job market for MLS graduates is stable but not high-growth. While compliance officer roles are projected to grow by 5% from 2023 to 2033, other related roles, such as medical and health services managers, are expected to grow by 29%, offering better long-term prospects.
• MLS degrees are available online, providing flexibility for working professionals. Many universities offer online MLS programs, making it easier to balance education with a full-time job.

Table of Contents

1. Is a Master of Legal Studies worth it for 2025?
2. What is a master's in legal studies?
3. Who is a Master of Legal Studies degree best suited for?
4. What are the jobs you can get with a Master of Legal Studies degree?
5. Can you earn a Master of Legal Studies degree online?
6. What types of courses are included in a Master of Legal Studies curriculum?
7. What types of specializations are available in Master of Legal Studies programs?
8. How do I choose a specialization in a master's in legal studies that aligns with my career goals?
9. What should I consider when selecting an MLS program?
10. Are alternative 2-year degrees a viable pathway to legal expertise?
11. How do MLS programs enhance practical skills and professional networking?
12. Why Should I Consider an MLS if I Am Interested in Criminal Justice?
13. What emerging trends are shaping the MLS career landscape?
14. Is an online associate degree a valuable stepping stone before pursuing an MLS?
15. Can an online law enforcement degree complement an MLS for expanded career opportunities?
16. Can an MLS Degree Enhance Career Opportunities in Homeland Security?
17. What career paths are available for graduates of Master of Legal Studies degree programs?
18. How much can I earn with a Master of Legal Studies degree?
19. What is the job market for graduates with a Master of Legal Studies degree?
20. Other Things You Should Know About Master of Legal Studies

Is a Master of Legal Studies worth it for 2025?

A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is worth it for professionals who need legal expertise but do not plan to become lawyers. Often considered the easiest law degree to get, the MLS is especially valuable in fields like compliance, human resources, healthcare administration, and finance, where understanding legal frameworks can lead to career advancement. While it does not qualify graduates to take the bar exam, it provides a legal foundation that can help professionals stand out.

Many employers in regulated industries value advanced legal knowledge, and an MLS can open doors to leadership roles. In fields like business, finance, and human resources, professionals with legal training can gain a competitive edge—something reflected in the share of executives (31%) and financial managers (22%) with advanced law degrees.

However, prospective students should weigh the cost of the degree against potential salary increases to determine if it aligns with their career goals. However, whether an MLS is worth the investment depends on several factors, including job growth projections, earning potential, and the industries that offer the highest salaries for professionals with legal expertise. In the sections below, we explore these key factors to help you determine if an MLS aligns with your career goals.

What is a master's in legal studies?

A master's in legal studies (MLS) is a graduate degree designed for professionals who need legal expertise but do not intend to practice law as attorneys. It provides a foundational understanding of legal principles, regulations, and compliance, helping individuals apply legal knowledge in fields like business, healthcare, and government.

How is an MLS different from a JD?

The Juris Doctor (JD) is the degree required to become a licensed attorney, focusing on litigation, courtroom procedures, and bar exam preparation. In contrast, an MLS is tailored for non-lawyers who work in legal-adjacent roles, such as compliance officers, human resources managers, or contract specialists. It covers legal frameworks without the extensive case law analysis and advocacy training of a JD.

How does an MLS compare to an LLM?

A Master of Laws (LLM) is for individuals who already have a JD or an international law degree and want to specialize further. The MLS, on the other hand, is meant for professionals outside the legal profession who need legal knowledge for their work but do not seek to become practicing lawyers.

An MLS provides valuable legal insight for various industries, making it a strategic choice for professionals looking to enhance their careers without committing to law school.

Who is a Master of Legal Studies degree best suited for?

An MLS is ideal for professionals who need legal expertise in their fields but do not plan to become attorneys. It is designed for individuals working in industries where understanding laws, regulations, and compliance is essential.

Professionals in Compliance and Regulation

Many compliance officers pursue an MLS to gain a stronger legal foundation for interpreting and enforcing regulations in industries such as finance, healthcare, and government. This degree helps professionals navigate complex legal frameworks and ensure organizational compliance.

Human Resources and Business Leaders

HR managers and executives dealing with employment law, contracts, and workplace policies benefit from legal studies training. Understanding labor laws and corporate regulations helps them mitigate risks and ensure compliance.

Healthcare and Policy Professionals

Healthcare administrators, policy analysts, and public sector employees use an MLS to navigate complex healthcare laws, privacy regulations, and government policies. This knowledge is crucial in fields where legal compliance affects patient care and institutional operations.

Other Legal-Adjacent Roles

Real estate professionals, journalists covering legal affairs, and individuals in law enforcement also find value in an MLS. The degree equips them with the legal knowledge necessary for contract negotiations, investigative reporting, or regulatory enforcement.

A Common Path: Compliance Officer

The MLS is best for professionals who interact with the law regularly in their careers but do not require a law license. It enhances career opportunities while allowing students to bypass the commitment of law school and the bar exam. One of the most common roles associated with this degree is compliance officer, where professionals ensure businesses follow laws and regulations. In 2023, there were 383,620 compliance officers in the US, earning an average salary of $80,190. Many MLS graduates pursue this career path, making it a natural fit for those looking to apply legal knowledge in corporate or regulatory settings.

In fact, professionals working in roles involving legal frameworks might also explore adjacent fields, such as how to start a career in career counseling, which can benefit from legal knowledge in ethical guidance, documentation, and client advocacy.

What are the jobs you can get with a Master of Legal Studies degree?

Earning a Master of Legal Studies opens doors to a variety of legal-adjacent careers where understanding laws and regulations is crucial. While it does not qualify graduates to practice law, it provides a strong legal foundation for roles in compliance, human resources, healthcare administration, and other regulatory fields.

Common Occupations for MLS Graduates:

• Compliance officer: Ensures that organizations follow laws and regulations, particularly in industries like finance, healthcare, and government. This is one of the most common career paths for MLS graduates.
• Human resources manager: Handles employment law, workplace policies, and labor regulations to ensure legal compliance within organizations.
• Healthcare administrator: Manages legal and ethical issues in healthcare settings, including patient rights, medical compliance, and privacy laws.
• Contract administrator: Drafts, reviews, and negotiates contracts to ensure they align with legal standards and business requirements.
• Regulatory affairs specialist: Works in industries like pharmaceuticals, finance, or energy to ensure compliance with government regulations.
• Risk manager: Identifies and mitigates legal risks for organizations by ensuring adherence to policies and regulatory requirements.
• Paralegal or legal analyst: Supports legal teams by conducting research, preparing documents, and analyzing regulations.

Many MLS graduates find opportunities in sectors that require strong legal knowledge but do not demand a law license. Compliance, in particular, is a major field for MLS holders, with federal, state, and local government agencies employing over 137,000 compliance officers in 2023. The table below highlights the industries with the highest employment levels for compliance officers, along with their average salaries.

For those interested in more analytical and data-driven roles, another rewarding path may be learning how to become a psychometrician, where professionals apply statistical methods to assess psychological traits—often intersecting with education, legal assessment, or research.

Can you earn a Master of Legal Studies degree online?

Yes, many universities offer Master of Legal Studies programs online, making it more accessible for working professionals. These programs provide the same legal education as in-person options, covering topics like compliance, contracts, and regulatory law. Much like online paralegal degrees, online MLS programs allow students to gain specialized legal knowledge without the need to attend law school or take the bar exam.

For example, UCLA Law offers an MLS program with flexible study formats, including in-person, hybrid, and fully online options. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their professional and personal commitments while still receiving a rigorous legal education from a top-ranked institution.

What types of courses are included in a Master of Legal Studies curriculum?

An MLS curriculum provides a strong foundation in legal principles while allowing students to specialize based on their career goals. These courses are designed to help professionals understand and apply legal concepts in business, healthcare, government, and other industries. Whether through in-person or online master of legal studies programs, students typically take courses in the following areas:

• Legal foundations: Covers the structure of the US legal system, contract law, and administrative law. This helps professionals interpret contracts, navigate regulations, and understand how laws are enforced in different industries.
• Regulatory compliance: Focuses on industry-specific laws in areas like healthcare, finance, and employment. This is particularly useful for compliance officers and risk managers who ensure organizations follow legal guidelines.
• Business law: Explores corporate governance, intellectual property, and contract negotiation. These concepts are valuable for professionals working in business strategy, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
• Employment and labor law: Examines workplace policies, discrimination laws, and employee rights. HR professionals and corporate managers use this knowledge to ensure fair and legal workplace practices.
• Health law and policy: Covers medical ethics, patient privacy laws, and healthcare regulations. This is essential for those working in hospital administration, insurance, or public health policy.
• Risk management: Teaches how to identify and mitigate legal risks in organizations. This skill is crucial for professionals responsible for protecting their companies from lawsuits and regulatory penalties.

Many MLS programs also offer electives in specialized fields such as cybersecurity law, environmental regulations, and dispute resolution. These courses give students a practical understanding of the legal challenges in their industries, helping them make informed decisions and advance their careers.

In 2022, there were around 425 master's degree in general legal studies awarded in the US. 

What types of specializations are available in Master of Legal Studies programs?

Master of Legal Studies (MLS) programs offer a range of specializations that allow students to tailor their education to their professional goals. These concentrations help professionals gain industry-specific legal knowledge without obtaining a law degree. Some of the most common specializations include:

• Regulatory compliance: Prepares students to navigate industry regulations, making it ideal for compliance officers, auditors, and risk managers.
• Business law: Covers contract negotiation, corporate governance, and intellectual property, benefiting those in management, consulting, or entrepreneurship.
• Employment and labor law: Focuses on workplace regulations, employee rights, and HR policies, essential for HR professionals and corporate leaders.
• Health law and policy: Examines legal issues in healthcare, including patient privacy laws and medical ethics, useful for hospital administrators and insurance professionals.
• Cybersecurity and data privacy law: Teaches the legal aspects of digital security, which is critical for IT professionals, risk analysts, and compliance managers in tech-driven industries.
• Environmental and energy law: Covers policies on sustainability, climate change, and energy regulations, valuable for professionals working in environmental policy and corporate sustainability.

Some programs also offer niche specializations such as sports law, entertainment law, and dispute resolution. Just as MSW students must evaluate the best MSW specializations for career growth, MLS students benefit from choosing a focus area aligned with their industry to enhance expertise and open up new career opportunities in regulated fields.

High-Paying Industries for MLS Specializations

Specializing in areas like regulatory compliance, cybersecurity law, or business law can open doors to high-paying industries where legal expertise is in demand. Compliance officers, for example, play a crucial role in sectors such as aerospace manufacturing, energy distribution, and tech-driven industries, where salaries can exceed six figures. In 2023, compliance professionals in fields like web search portals ($126,290) and aerospace product manufacturing ($118,070) earned some of the highest salaries in the profession, highlighting the value of legal knowledge in complex regulatory environments.

How do I choose a specialization in a master's in legal studies that aligns with my career goals?

Choosing the right specialization in an MLS program depends on your industry, career aspirations, and the specific legal knowledge that will benefit your role. Many universities offer specializations tailored to high-demand fields, including programs from online colleges with open enrollment, making legal education more accessible to working professionals. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a specialization:

• Industry relevance: Consider the legal challenges in your field. For example, professionals in healthcare might benefit from a health law and policy specialization, while those in finance may find regulatory compliance essential.
• Career advancement: If you're looking to move into a leadership role, a specialization in business law or employment and labor law could provide the expertise needed for corporate decision-making.
• Job market demand: Some fields have stronger growth potential. Specializations like cybersecurity and data privacy law are increasingly valuable as businesses prioritize digital security and regulatory compliance.
• Personal interest and skill set: Legal studies can be complex, so selecting an area that aligns with your strengths—whether it's negotiation, research, or policy analysis—can make your coursework more engaging and your expertise more marketable.
• Earning potential: Certain specializations align with high-paying industries. Compliance officers in sectors such as aerospace manufacturing, energy, and tech often command six-figure salaries due to the complexity of legal regulations in these fields.

The right specialization not only enhances your expertise but also increases your career opportunities. Whether you aim to transition into a new role or gain a competitive edge in your current profession, selecting a concentration that aligns with industry trends and personal interests can maximize the value of your MLS degree.

What should I consider when selecting an MLS program?

When evaluating MLS programs, ensure that the curriculum aligns with your specific career objectives and that the institution holds recognized accreditation. Scrutinize faculty expertise, course delivery methods, and available experiential learning opportunities—each can significantly impact your professional development. Additionally, compare tuition and cost structures with potential career earnings to assess return on investment. Explore flexible and competitively priced options, including offerings from ABA accredited paralegal programs, to help determine the program quality and value that best fits your professional aspirations.

Are alternative 2-year degrees a viable pathway to legal expertise?

Some professionals may consider shorter programs to build foundational legal knowledge before committing to an MLS. These accelerated, cost-effective options can provide essential skills that complement on-the-job learning or serve as a stepping stone for career transition. When evaluating these alternatives, it is important to compare curriculum scope, hands-on experiences, and industry-recognized credentials. For instance, candidates may explore opportunities offered by 2 year degrees online to assess whether a shorter academic commitment aligns with their career goals and financial planning.

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MLS programs increasingly emphasize experiential learning by integrating internships, live case studies, and collaborative projects with industry partners. These practical components allow students to apply legal theory in real-world settings, improving problem-solving and communication skills. Many institutions also facilitate professional networking through mentorship programs, industry panels, and legal clinics that foster direct engagement with experts in related fields. Additionally, supplementing formal studies with targeted certifications can reinforce practical expertise; for example, enrolling in the best online paralegal programs may further refine research and procedural competencies, enhancing overall career readiness.

Why Should I Consider an MLS if I Am Interested in Criminal Justice?

Graduates focusing on legal frameworks can apply their expertise to roles in public safety, policy oversight, and regulatory compliance within the criminal justice system. An MLS equips professionals with skills in risk assessment, ethical analysis, and applied legal reasoning that are increasingly valuable in criminal justice settings. Evaluating career trajectories in this area may involve comparing traditional legal studies with specialized programs such as the affordable criminal justice degree online to determine which path best aligns with your professional goals.

What emerging trends are shaping the MLS career landscape?

Rapid technological innovations and evolving regulatory frameworks are reshaping roles that require legal expertise. Employers increasingly value MLS graduates who can integrate legal knowledge with digital transformation, particularly in areas like cybersecurity, data privacy, and blockchain regulation. Enhanced demand for professionals well-versed in global compliance and international regulatory environments is driving the need for skill sets that blend traditional legal knowledge with emerging tech competencies. For additional insights on career possibilities, explore What can you do with a master of legal studies?.

Is an online associate degree a valuable stepping stone before pursuing an MLS?

A foundational education in legal studies can streamline your transition into an MLS program by introducing core legal concepts and industry-specific terminology. This targeted preparation offers a cost-effective method to build essential skills and assess your commitment to a legal-adjacent career. For professionals seeking to strengthen their academic profile before advancing to master-level coursework, securing a preliminary qualification can enhance both readiness and confidence in specialized roles such as compliance and regulatory management. Additionally, this pathway can clarify long-term career goals by providing immediate exposure to legal frameworks. For those interested in exploring this approach, consider reading our article on online associate degree programs in legal studies as a strategic starting point.

Can an online law enforcement degree complement an MLS for expanded career opportunities?

Combining an MLS with specialized credentials can broaden your expertise in regulatory and security environments. For professionals interested in gaining a more nuanced understanding of public safety regulations, integrating an online law enforcement degree provides complementary insights into investigative processes, crisis management, and enforcement protocols. This dual-skilled profile may enhance roles in compliance, risk management, and strategic oversight where legal frameworks intersect with security operations.

Can an MLS Degree Enhance Career Opportunities in Homeland Security?

The evolving landscape of national safety and regulatory enforcement has created a niche where legal expertise meets security strategy. An MLS degree equips professionals with analytical skills and a firm grasp of compliance and risk management principles, which are directly applicable to roles in homeland security. By complementing an MLS background with focused security training, graduates can transition into positions that require both a legal framework and specialized security knowledge. For example, integrating courses from online homeland security fast track programs can provide targeted insights into threat assessment, crisis management, and regulatory adherence, further enhancing career prospects in this critical field.

What career paths are available for graduates of Master of Legal Studies degree programs?

A Master of Legal Studies opens opportunities to career paths that require legal expertise but not a law license. Many professionals use the degree to advance in highly regulated industries, strengthen their credentials for leadership roles, or transition into legal-adjacent fields. Some even combine their MLS with an online executive MBA to enhance their business acumen and qualify for specialized positions in corporate law, compliance, and risk management. Here are some of the most common career paths for MLS graduates:

• Regulatory compliance and risk management: Professionals in finance, healthcare, and corporate governance use legal expertise to ensure organizations follow industry regulations and manage risks effectively.
• Corporate leadership and management: Many executives in HR, operations, and corporate strategy leverage their legal knowledge to make informed business decisions, particularly in employment law and contract management.
• Public policy and government affairs: Those interested in shaping legislation, working with regulatory agencies, or advising on legal policy can pursue roles in government, lobbying, or nonprofit organizations.
• Healthcare administration and legal consulting: With healthcare laws becoming more complex, MLS graduates with a specialization in health law are well-positioned for leadership roles in hospitals, insurance companies, and medical compliance.
• Cybersecurity and data privacy strategy: As data security regulations expand, professionals in IT, risk analysis, and corporate security use their legal training to navigate laws governing digital privacy and cyber threats.
• Alternative dispute resolution and mediation: Many professionals enter arbitration and mediation careers, helping resolve disputes in business, employment, and civil matters without litigation.

An MLS degree provides flexibility across various industries, allowing professionals to advance in their current fields or transition into roles where legal expertise is a key asset. When combined with business-focused degrees like an MBA, graduates can stand out for leadership and niche legal strategy roles.

How much can I earn with a Master of Legal Studies degree?

Salaries for Master of Legal Studies degree holders vary widely based on industry, experience, and job role. The average salary for MLS holders is $60,327, with earnings ranging from $17,500 to $125,000. Compliance officers—one of the most common roles for MLS graduates—earned an average of $80,190 in 2023, with those in federal and corporate settings making closer to six figures. High-paying industries like aerospace manufacturing ($118,070) and natural gas distribution ($110,660) also employ professionals with legal expertise.

With tuition costs between $20,000 and $50,000, an MLS can offer a solid return on investment, particularly for those who leverage the degree to advance into management or regulatory roles. While not as lucrative as a JD, it remains one of the more practical masters degrees that pay well for professionals in law-adjacent careers. Those considering an MLS should assess their earning potential within their field to determine whether the investment makes financial sense.

What is the job market for graduates with a Master of Legal Studies degree?

The job market for MLS graduates is stable, with opportunities across various industries that require legal knowledge but not a law license. Many roles suited for MLS holders—such as compliance officers, management analysts, and HR managers—are expected to see steady demand over the next decade.

From 2023 to 2033, the compliance officer field is projected to grow by 5%, with 34,400 average annual job openings. More specialized roles, such as medical and health service managers, are expected to grow by 29%, creating over 61,000 job openings per year. Fields like human resources management (6% growth) and management analysis (11% growth) also present strong career opportunities.

Like those evaluating the spiritual counselor job outlook, MLS graduates benefit from strong prospects in sectors that value legal expertise without requiring a JD. While the MLS does not guarantee a specific job title, it enhances career prospects in legal-adjacent roles, particularly in healthcare, finance, and corporate governance, where understanding legal frameworks is essential.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Whether Their Master of Legal Studies Are Worth It

• I wanted to strengthen my credentials for leadership roles, and the MLS gave me that edge. Coming from a business background, I always worked around contracts and negotiations, but I lacked the legal expertise to fully understand them. My online MLS coursework in business law gave me the confidence to navigate complex agreements and advocate for my company more effectively. Since graduating, I’ve stepped into a corporate compliance role that I wouldn’t have qualified for before. The degree didn’t just open doors—it made me more effective in the role I already had. Lee
• For someone in cybersecurity, understanding the law is just as important as understanding the technology. When I first started working in data privacy, I saw how legal regulations shaped everything we did, but I had no formal training in that area. My MLS focused on cybersecurity law, which helped me bridge the gap between technical security measures and legal compliance. That knowledge helped me transition into a leadership position in my company’s risk management division. The ability to study online made it possible to keep up with work while diving into a completely new area of expertise. Ethan
• I always thought law school was the only way to work in legal fields, but the MLS proved otherwise. My background is in finance, and I wanted to transition into regulatory compliance without spending three years in law school. The MLS program gave me the exact legal knowledge I needed for financial regulations and compliance policies. Within months of graduating, I moved into a higher-paying compliance analyst role at a financial firm. Being able to study online meant I could make the switch without putting my career on hold. Haley

Key Findings

• Earning potential for MLS graduates varies widely. The average salary for those with a Master of Legal Studies is $60,327, with earnings ranging from $17,500 to $125,000, depending on industry and experience.
• Compliance is a major career path for MLS graduates. In 2023, there were 383,620 compliance officers in the US, earning an average annual salary of $80,190.
• Government and corporate sectors employ the most compliance professionals. Federal, state, and local governments employed over 137,000 compliance officers in 2023, with salaries ranging from $64,230 to $94,320.
• Some industries offer six-figure salaries for compliance professionals. Compliance officers in high-paying industries such as web search portals ($126,290) and aerospace manufacturing ($118,070) earned some of the highest salaries in 2023.
• Job growth for MLS-related professions remains steady. Between 2023 and 2033, compliance officer positions are expected to have 34,400 annual openings, while management analysts and healthcare managers will see even higher demand.
• MLS degrees are still relatively niche. Only 425 master's degrees in general legal studies were awarded in the US in 2022, making it a specialized credential compared to more common graduate degrees.

Other Things You Should Know About Master of Legal Studies 

What is a Master of Legal Studies?

A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is a graduate degree designed for professionals who need legal knowledge but do not intend to become attorneys. This degree provides a strong understanding of legal principles, regulations, and compliance, helping professionals navigate legal issues in fields such as business, healthcare, finance, and human resources. Unlike a Juris Doctor (JD), which prepares students to practice law, an MLS focuses on legal concepts that apply to specific industries. Many programs offer specializations in areas like regulatory compliance, employment law, and cybersecurity law, making it a flexible option for professionals seeking to enhance their careers.

What is the highest degree in law?

The highest degree in law is the Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD or JSD), which is an advanced research-based degree for those pursuing academic, scholarly, or high-level policy careers in law. It is often considered the equivalent of a PhD in legal studies and requires extensive research and dissertation work. The Juris Doctor (JD) is the most common professional law degree required to practice law, while the Master of Laws (LLM) is a postgraduate degree that provides further specialization in a specific legal field. The SJD is the highest credential for those aiming for careers in legal academia or research.

What master's degree is best for law?

The best master's degree for law depends on career goals. A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) is ideal for professionals who need legal expertise but do not plan to practice law. A Master of Laws (LLM) is best for lawyers seeking advanced specialization in a legal field. A Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR) is useful for professionals focusing on mediation and arbitration. Those in business law may benefit from a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in legal studies. Choosing the right degree depends on whether an individual seeks to practice law, work in compliance, or specialize in a legal-adjacent profession.

What role does a Master of Legal Studies play in corporate compliance?

A Master of Legal Studies plays a significant role in corporate compliance by preparing professionals to understand and enforce regulatory requirements in businesses and organizations. Compliance officers, risk managers, and corporate governance specialists use MLS training to navigate complex legal frameworks, prevent violations, and ensure companies meet industry standards. In 2023, there were 383,620 compliance officers in the United States, earning an average salary of $80,190. Many industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology, rely on compliance professionals to manage legal risks and maintain ethical business practices. An MLS with a specialization in regulatory compliance provides the necessary legal knowledge to succeed in these roles.

References:

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• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Management analysts. Retrieved February 24, 2025, from BLS.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Medical and health services managers. Retrieved February 24, 2025, from BLS.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023 - 13-1041 compliance officers. Retrieved February 24, 2025, from BLS.
• Data USA. (2025). General legal studies. Retrieved February 24, 2025, from Data USA.
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Masters in legal studies salary. Retrieved February 24, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.