The M.L.S. - Global Cohort: Professional Advancement through the Study of Law
Designed for ambitious professionals and young students who want a sophisticated understand of the law but not become practicing lawyers.
Why Choose UCLA & UCLA Law
About University of California, Los Angeles
Ranked the #1 public university and the most applied-to university in the United States, UCLA pairs the energy of a Tier-1 world-class research institution with the reach of one of the world's most dynamic cities. Located in Westwood, minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and world-class beaches. 16 Nobel Laureates and 17 MacArthur Fellows among its faculty and alumni. 123 NCAA championships — more than almost any university in the country. A century-plus legacy of academic and athletic excellence. Direct access to Southern California's professional, cultural, and entrepreneurial networks. Studying at UCLA means learning inside a global research powerhouse while building a career in a city that leads in entertainment, technology, and business.
About UCLA School of Law
Ranked the #1 law school in Southern California and among the nation's top law schools, UCLA Law pairs elite faculty with an inclusive, opportunity-rich community. Faculty regularly conduct groundbreaking scholarship, are featured in national media, and hold prestigious career honors. As one of the top law schools in the nation, UCLA Law is committed to providing an unparalleled educational experience in a warm and inclusive environment. UCLA Law students are problem solvers. They engage on pressing issues such as climate change, immigration, business policy, criminal justice, international human rights and much more. They are also thinkers, probing ideas and challenging themselves and each other.
Overview
What is a Master of Legal Studies?
This program delivers graduate-level legal education designed specifically for professionals and young students. Earn a master's degree that empowers leaders across the private, nonprofit, and government sectors to understand complex legal issues and confidently navigate laws, regulations, disputes, and interactions with lawyers.
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A curriculum-offered on-campus-designed to fit the needs of students to earn the Master of Legal Studies degree in nine months through the full-time track. Courses are interdisciplinary and include both foundational core classes and a wide range of advanced, practice-oriented electives. Elective offerings span key areas such as business strategy, regulatory compliance, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
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This program is designed for students alike-those eager to master the language of the law, challenge themselves, and open new doors to career opportunities. This program prepares them to navigate those complexities with confidence.
Program Benefits
Learn from World-Class Faculty Committed to Your Success
UCLA School of Law’s faculty are leading experts in business law, intellectual property, management, and more. They are deeply invested in student success, combining rigorous instruction with meaningful engagement to ensure students master the material.
Accelerated Degree Completion
Earn your Master of Legal Studies degree in nine months through the full-time track.
Career Advancement
Gain practical legal knowledge and leadership skills to advance your career. As a student at the nation’s most applied-to university—ranked the #1 public university in the U.S. and home to Southern California’s top-ranked law school—you’ll benefit from UCLA’s academic prestige and global reputation.
Extensive Networking Opportunities
Join a dynamic community of professionals across diverse industries in Southern California and beyond. UCLA’s vast alumni network provides valuable connections that extend well past graduation. Eligible graduates may also apply for one year of Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Test-Optional Admissions
GRE, GMAT, and LSAT scores are optional.
Live and Learn in Los Angeles
Study in one of the world’s most diverse, vibrant, and inspiring cities. Los Angeles offers unmatched cultural, professional, and lifestyle opportunities—all just outside your classroom.
Curriculum Overview
At UCLA Law, you will experience a dynamic education that prepares students to become leaders in all areas of the law.
The Master of Legal Studies -- Global Business Law Cohort offers a distinctive 26-unit curriculum that bridges law, business management, regulation, and leadership. Courses are interdisciplinary and include both foundational core classes and a wide range of advanced, practiceoriented electives. Elective offerings span key areas such as business strategy, regulatory compliance, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
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Designed to blend theory with real-world application, MLS courses emphasize both conceptual understanding and practical skills. Many classes feature interactive components, including hands-on exercises and real-world case scenarios to reinforce learning.
Core Curriculum
» Introduction to American Law
» Private Law: Property and Contract
» Public Law
» Legal Analysis and Communication
» Business Law for Non-Lawyers
Elective Courses
​The below is a sampling of the potential courses, courses may change based on faculty availability.
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» Business Strategy and Corporate Governance
» International Business Transactions
» Venture Capital and the Start-Up Company
» Contract Analysis and Drafting
» Accounting
» Negotiation and Business Skills
Capstone Requirement
The Capstone Seminar allows students to complete a self-selected, faculty-guided project that deeply engages with issues relevant to their career focus or intellectual interest.