For many aspiring professionals intrigued by the complexities of law and policy, the conventional path has always pointed towards the Juris Doctorate (JD). However, an alternative path has emerged that offers an equally compelling blend of knowledge, rigor, and practical applicability — the Master of Science in Law (MSL).
With tailored concentrations in niche areas like Water and Environmental Law, and Government Law and Policy, McGeorge School of Law is paving the way for individuals to immerse themselves in specialized and career-building legal knowledge, even as non-lawyers. So, why consider an MSL degree over a JD? In a Prelaw magazine article about this very topic, Clemence Kucera, Assistant Dean of online programs at McGeorge School of Law, had this to say, “While students walk away with legal knowledge, they don’t have to take the 88 units the law school requires or prepare for the bar.”
Key Benefits for Non-Lawyers
One of the key benefits of the MSL degree is its accessibility to non-lawyers. This program is ideal for professionals who need to understand and navigate the legal landscape in their work, but do not intend to practice law. From engineers to environmentalists, business leaders to policymakers, an MSL allows individuals across various fields to enhance their understanding of law and policy, thereby enriching their career trajectories and decision-making capabilities. MSL graduate, Amanda Richie, explains, “For me getting an MSL was the best of both worlds. It was a shorter version of law school that provided me with the classes I needed.”
Specialized Legal Expertise
The online MSL degree at McGeorge School of Law offers concentrations that provide graduates with a unique advantage over competitors in the job market. For instance, in the Water and Environmental Law track, students delve into the intricacies of environmental regulations, policies, and legal frameworks related to natural resources. Meanwhile, the Government Law and Policy track equips students with comprehensive insights into public policy-making and legal issues tied to governance. This depth of understanding, specific to their field, equips MSL graduates with knowledge beyond what many JD holders may have in these specialized areas.
Career Advancement
The MSL degree can be a catalyst for career progression. While not a law degree in the traditional sense, the MSL can open doors to roles that require a robust understanding of legal systems and processes, such as policy analysts, regulatory affairs managers, and more. For professionals already working in these fields, the MSL can enhance their credentials and position them for higher-level roles or pay grades.
Time and Financial Considerations
Earning a JD typically takes three years of full-time study and often involves a significant financial commitment. On the other hand, the MSL program at McGeorge is part-time and online, allowing you the flexibility to work around a full-time job and family commitments. This reduced timeframe and, often, a lower cost, makes the MSL a more feasible option for many working professionals looking to gain legal knowledge without committing to a full law degree. Students consistently highlight this flexibility as one of the top reasons to choose McGeorge
The Value of an MSL from McGeorge School of Law
The MSL program at McGeorge School of Law provides an alternative pathway to deepening legal proficiency without the time and financial commitment of a JD. The specialized concentrations offer non-lawyers and working professionals the opportunity to enhance their career prospects and industry expertise. While the MSL doesn’t replace the JD for those intending to practice law, it certainly offers a wealth of benefits for individuals aiming to advance in other areas of work. So, if you’ve been contemplating how to sharpen your legal skills and career prospects without becoming a practicing lawyer, the MSL could be the perfect fit for you.