What Can You Do with a Master’s in Legal Studies?

A Master’s in Legal Studies (MLS) is a flexible, career-focused degree that is designed for professionals who need legal knowledge to advance in their fields without becoming a practicing attorney. This advanced graduate program equips individuals with a solid foundation in legal principles, regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, and more, making them valuable contributors across multiple sectors.

Are you one among those that are asking, “What can you do with a Master’s in Legal Studies?” the answer is: quite a lot. The MLS opens doors to careers in law-adjacent roles within government, business, nonprofit organizations, healthcare, finance, human resources, and tech. Below is a comprehensive look at career options available to MLS graduates.

Corporate Compliance Officer

One of the most common roles for MLS graduates is that of a Corporate Compliance Officer. In this role, the individual ensures a company complies with regulatory requirements, both internal and external. They design internal controls, audit procedures, and risk management strategies to prevent legal violations and maintain ethical standards.

An MLS program provides a thorough understanding of industry-specific laws—such as healthcare regulations, financial compliance standards, and corporate governance rules—making it a strategic asset in this field.

Contract Manager

MLS graduates often pursue careers as Contract Managers, overseeing the drafting, review, and negotiation of business agreements. Their job is to ensure contracts meet legal standards and protect the organization from liability. This role is particularly important in industries like construction, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and tech, where complex vendor and partnership agreements are common.

An MLS degree sharpens the ability to interpret and draft legal documents, making it ideal for this career.

Data Privacy and Protection Specialist

With the rise of digital data and increasing government regulation, there’s a growing demand for Data Privacy Officers and Information Governance Specialists. These professionals ensure their organizations comply with data protection laws like GDPR or HIPAA.

The MLS degree prepares graduates to navigate legal frameworks related to data privacy, cybersecurity policies, and ethical data handling. Organizations in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and technology especially value this expertise.

Human Resources Manager

Legal knowledge is a significant asset in Human Resources. A Human Resources Manager with an MLS can better manage employment law compliance, discrimination and harassment prevention, workplace investigations, and policy creation.

The MLS provides in-depth knowledge of labor law, benefits regulations, and organizational ethics, which allows HR leaders to mitigate legal risks and create legally sound HR practices.

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research, develop, and evaluate policy proposals for government agencies, think tanks, or nonprofits. With a strong foundation in law and regulatory environments, MLS graduates are well-equipped to assess legislation, propose changes, and forecast the legal impact of policy decisions.

This role is ideal for those interested in politics, public service, or social justice initiatives. An MLS degree enhances analytical and research capabilities, enabling professionals to craft effective and legally compliant policies.

Legislative Assistant

Legislative Assistants work directly with lawmakers, helping to draft bills, analyze legislation, and research relevant legal issues. This role requires strong legal writing skills and a deep understanding of public law, both of which are emphasized in an MLS program.

Graduates who pursue this path often have interests in government operations, lobbying, or public administration. They support the legislative process and help shape laws that affect constituents.

Victim Advocate

Graduates with a passion for social justice may work as Victim Advocates. These professionals provide support to victims of crime or trauma by guiding them through the legal system, helping them understand their rights, and connecting them with essential resources.

An MLS degree provides the legal grounding to understand the criminal justice system and victim rights legislation, making it easier for advocates to offer accurate and compassionate assistance.

Private Investigator or Legal Consultant

An MLS can also support a career as a Private Investigator or a Legal Consultant, especially for those focused on civil cases, fraud detection, or background checks. Legal consultants with this degree often specialize in contract law, compliance, or business regulation and work independently or as part of larger consulting firms.

Knowledge gained through the MLS program ensures investigations are conducted within the bounds of the law, and that findings are admissible in legal proceedings when necessary.

Court Administrator

A Court Administrator manages the day-to-day operations of courts, ensuring that schedules, resources, and personnel are organized and efficient. These professionals often act as the bridge between judicial officers and the public.

An MLS provides the management skills and legal literacy needed to run a courthouse effectively, particularly in understanding court procedures, budgeting, and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Legal Writer or Analyst

For individuals with strong communication skills, becoming a Legal Writer or Legal Analyst can be a rewarding career. They interpret laws and regulations for the public or professional audiences by producing articles, white papers, legal briefs, and web content.

An MLS degree ensures accuracy in content and provides the legal vocabulary necessary to engage with professional audiences. This career suits those who enjoy research, writing, and working independently or in media, publishing, or legal services.

Nonprofit or Advocacy Leader

Many nonprofits require leadership with legal insight to navigate grant agreements, compliance regulations, lobbying rules, and social policy laws. An MLS degree prepares professionals to manage these legal responsibilities while focusing on advocacy goals.

Leaders with this credential can also handle regulatory reporting and advise on issues related to discrimination, funding, or public policy, helping organizations remain compliant while making a positive impact.

Real Estate Compliance or Title Specialist

In real estate, professionals with a Master’s in Legal Studies often serve as Compliance Specialists or Title Officers, ensuring that transactions meet legal requirements. They review property titles, contracts, and zoning regulations, reducing liability in high-value transactions.

MLS coursework typically includes property law and contract law, which are crucial in this field.

Industries That Hire MLS Graduates

MLS graduates are in demand in various industries, including:

Healthcare – regulatory compliance, patient rights
Finance & Banking – anti-money laundering, contract enforcement
Technology – data privacy, intellectual property
Education – Title IX compliance, academic policy
Government – public policy, civil service, regulation
Nonprofits – program administration, advocacy

Is an MLS Worth It?

For those of you that may, A Master’s in Legal Studies is ideal for professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of the law without attending law school or becoming a licensed attorney. The degree is particularly valuable for those in compliance, human resources, policy, and regulatory roles.

Conclusion

A Master’s in Legal Studies is a powerful credential for professionals who need legal fluency to navigate today’s complex, regulated work environment. From corporate compliance to policy development, the degree prepares individuals for high-impact roles where legal knowledge is a critical advantage.

Whether transitioning into a new industry or seeking growth in a current role, an MLS degree offers versatile, practical skills that can significantly expand career potential.