Rankings

25 Most Affordable Master’s in Law (M.L. or LL.M.) Grad Schools

Written by Grad School Center Team We are a passionate team of experienced educators and advisors at GradSchoolCenter.com, dedicated to guiding students through their graduate education journey. Our experts, with advanced degrees across various disciplines, offer personalized advice, up-to-date program information, and practical insights into application processes.

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: July 18, 2024, Reading time: 34 minutes

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Laws and regulations govern the way businesses and organizations operate. For this reason, a certain level of legal comprehension is necessary for the areas of financial services, human resources, healthcare, education, and business.

If you are interested in completing a law or legal education program, you will have numerous career opportunities in these sectors.

The legal field is an exciting area of study that provides you with intellectually stimulating roles to make a positive impact on your industry. When you pursue a law or legal studies program, you can start and find a profession that aligns with your passion – whether you desire to pursue a career in academia, negotiation, conflict resolution, or banking and finance industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities for lawyers are expected to grow by 10% through 2031. The industry offers individuals the opportunity to pursue and build a prospective lucrative profession, with lawyers obtaining a yearly median salary of $127,990.

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You can generally complete a law or legal studies degree in one to two years, providing you with the opportunity to jumpstart your profession relatively quickly.

Searching for the most affordable master’s degree program in law proposes to be a challenge on its own. The sheer number of law schools in the United States—now at 200—requires access to in-depth and updated information to assess the best university and program for you.

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GradSchoolCenter.com is here to help! Our list outlines the most inexpensive Master of Law programs in the United States. Featuring the country’s highly reputable universities, these programs provide graduate students with above-the-standard courses and comprehensive training to prepare them for stellar career opportunities in the field.

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Methodology

These Most Affordable Schools for Master’s in Law degrees are highly recommended because they are generally inexpensive than most other programs. Besides the relatively low tuition rates, these programs also provide a number of options for reduced overall educational expenses. To enjoy these privileges, students are expected to meet specific eligibility parameters.

Affordability, however, is just one side of it! These inexpensive schools for Master’s in Law programs all meet or exceed academic standards with these features:

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Grad School Center is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE MASTER’S IN LAW (M.L. OR LL. M.) GRAD SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Northeastern University

Boston, Massachusetts

Northeastern University

Tuition Fee: $1,400 per credit hour

Northeastern University has a reputable Master of Legal Studies offered through the School of Law. The core curriculum develops a foundational and broad comprehension and learning of American Laws. Core course works include Negotiation and Advocacy, Law of Information and Records, and Data Regulation and Compliance. Prospective graduates can also customize their program through a series of electives discussing legal issues and laws of different industries and sectors.

Elective courses include Wages and Benefits, Regulation and Global Business Strategies, and Anti-Discrimination Law. The specialization choices, on the other hand, consist of Human Resources Law, Health Law, or Business Law. The program can be earned on a part-time or full-time arrangement and completed in as little as 24 months!

Types of Aid: Double Husky Scholarship, Lifetime Learning Membership, Fellowship Opportunities, Yellow Ribbon Program, Research Assistantships, Teaching Assistantships, Stipend Graduate Assistantships, GrantForward, Work Awards, Private Loans, Scholarship Programs, and Grants

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Northeastern University also helps students ease the costs of education through different types of scholarship programs and grants.

Learn more about Northeastern University’s Master of Legal Studies.

University of Wyoming

Laramie, Wyoming

University of Wyoming

Tuition Fee: $532 per credit hour (Resident) | $1,136 per credit hour (Non-Resident)

The University of Wyoming is hailed as one of the best schools to obtain an affordable and excellent joint degree program in Law. The university’s popular J.D. degree program is rigorous and requires three years of full-time dedication to complete.

Prospective graduates will be required to complete 89 credit hours of coursework, numerous real-world training opportunities, the First Year Law Student Examination, practicums, internship programs, and court/clinical practice to earn the degree. Sample course works include Cambridge Summer Law Institute, Bar Review, and Land Use Law.

Types of Aid: National Scholarships, Merit-Based Scholarships, and Student Loans.

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The University of Wyoming’s affordable degree offerings include graduate certificates and joint degree programs, offering students the opportunity to choose their specialization within the program. Another noteworthy feature is that the university is small, with approximately 225 students attending yearly, indicating there is more collaboration for close rapport with professors and colleagues.

Learn more about the University of Wyoming’s Joint Degree Programs.

West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia

West Virginia University

Tuition Fee: $658 per credit hour

West Virginia University has a Master of Legal Studies delivered through distance learning. It has three areas of concentration, namely justice systems, homeland security, and healthcare, suitable for prospective graduates who want to pursue a rewarding profession in these sectors. The 30-credit hour program has a curriculum that has ten required courses including Researching the Law, Dispute Resolution Process, and Administrative Ethics.

Learners must also complete two of three Legal Process courses, namely Legislative, Judicial, and Administrative. The program concludes with a three-credit Research Capstone requirement.

Types of Aid: Grants, Merit-Based Scholarships, Scholarship Programs, Waivers, Federal Work-Study and Employment, Student Loans, Third-Party Sponsorships, Family Contribution Appeal, Veterans Benefits, Monthly Payment Plans, Credit-Based Loans, Garrett College Reduced Tuition

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Of all the academic institutions in which you can complete an affordable master’s degree program in a law-related discipline, West Virginia University is reputable for its well-balanced and functional curriculum. The university also helps students with their cost of education through different financial aid programs, including affordable monthly payment plans and work-study programs.

Learn more about West Virginia University’s Master of Legal Studies.

City University of New York

Long Island City, New York

City University of New York

Tuition Fee: $655 per credit hour

City University of New York’s School of Law is one of the most inexpensive law schools in the United States. The university provides you with diverse experiential learning programs while offering students the opportunity to concentrate on their field of study. This affordable university has received recognition and approval from the American Bar Association and the Board of Regents of New York State.

To earn their J.D., students must complete three years of rigorous studies, including at least 89 credit hours of courses, internship programs, clinics, and Lawyering Seminars to graduate. Sample course works include Civil Procedure, Law and Family Relations, and Context Environment Law.

Types of Aid: Incoming 1L Students, Diversity Scholarships, External Funding Opportunities, Graduate Fellowship, Haywood Burns Public Interest Merit Scholarship, Public Interest Leader Scholarship, Direct Loan, Military Tuition Assistance, Funding Disbursement

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CUNY has been consistent in the list of Top Ten Law Schools in Clinical Training. Aside from reputable law-related programs, the university also provides students with the opportunity to finance their education through a generous range of financial aid programs. Students reduce their educational expenses through private and alternative loans, scholarship programs, and credit transfers.

Learn more about City University of New York’s Dual-Degree Programs.

The University of Illinois at Springfield

Springfield, Illinois

The University of Illinois at Springfield

Tuition Fee: $332 per credit hour (In-State) | $682 per credit hour (Out-Of-State)

The University of Illinois at Springfield delivers a 40-credit hour Master of Arts in Legal Studies for working professionals. Some online courses are delivered in real-time through computer conferencing programs, while other courses can be opened at the learners’ flexibility and convenience. It discusses the world of law within the curriculum of an interdisciplinary liberal arts program.

Core classes include Theories of Justice, Seminar in Politics and Law, and Public Advocacy. To complete this master’s program, students must complete the graduate seminar or thesis program requirement. Learners also can take up to four clinical education credit hours, which can be earned through internship programs in government sectors or other public interest industries.

Types of Aid: Scholarship Programs, Federal Direct Loans, Private Education Loans, National Guard Grant, G.I. Bill Education Benefits, Veterans Grants, Vocational Rehabilitation Program

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UIS provides prospective graduates with a no-nonsense and practical MLS program along with flexible scheduling and several loans for financing graduate students’ educational expenses.

Learn more about the University of Illinois at Springfield’s Legal Studies Master’s Degree.

University of the District of Columbia

Washington, D.C.

University of the District of Columbia

Tuition Fee: $513 per credit hour

One of the cheapest law-related degrees in the U.S. is offered by the University of the District of Columbia. The university offers affordable Master of Laws and J.D. programs that enable learners to choose the best concentration for their profession. Its curricula are organized to offer required courses for the first two years and eventually lead prospective graduates into their concentration of choice for externships, internships, and clinical practice.

The program requires 89 credit hours of courses, comprehensive examinations, externships, internship programs, and clinical practice to graduate. Sample course works include Gender and Sexual Orientation Law, Race and the Law, and International Human Rights.

Types of Aid: Merit-Based Scholarships, Need-Based Institutional Scholarships, Grants, Federal Direct Loans, Work-Study Programs

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UDC’s David A. Clarke School of Law is dedicated to the public interest. It has a robust community that envisions D.C. residents earning approximately 100,000 hours of legal service and education. The university helps students reduce their educational expenses by offering need-based grant assistance and work-study programs.

Find out more about the University of the District of Columbia’s J.D. Programs.

Georgetown University

Washington, D.C.

Georgetown University

Tuition Fee: $1,484 per credit hour

Georgetown University has a Master of Studies in Law – Taxation delivered through the Georgetown University Law Center, which has the biggest tax curriculum of any university in the United States. Prospective graduates can also pursue a new certificate in State and Local Taxation or International Taxation. All students must complete three courses, namely Research and Writing, Income Tax Accounting and Introduction to Federal Income Tax, and Corporate Income Tax Law.

The Research and Writing coursework must be completed in real-time online through video conferencing. The program has 24 credit hours for completion and can be earned either on a full-time basis in one school year or a part-time commitment within 36 months.

Types of Aid: Need-Based Grant Assistance, Federal Direct Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, Private/Commercial Loans, Federal Work-Study, and Loan Repayment Assistance Program

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Georgetown University provides its students with numerous opportunities to reduce their educational expenses. The university also recognizes transfer credits to lessen the credit hours completed by a prospective graduate as a way to save.

Learn more about Georgetown University’s Master of Studies in Law – Taxation.

University of Montana

Missoula, Montana

University of Montana

Tuition Fee: $25,780 per semester (In-State) | $39,290 per semester (Out-Of-State)

Prospective students will have the opportunity to earn a law degree from one of the most affordable universities in the United States. With specialty offerings in Indian Law and Conflict Resolution and Natural Resources and Environmental Law, the University of Montana has been at the frontlines of facing and resolving legal concerns that impact the country. The programs at UMT require a significant amount of experiential learning programs.

Prospective graduates must accomplish a minimum of 89 credit hours of coursework, comprehensive examinations, externship programs, internships, Lawyering Seminars, and simulation classes to graduate. Sample classes include Contracts, Constitutional Law, and Legal Writing.

Types of Aid: Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, TEACH Grants, Montana State Grants, Federal Direct Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Private Student Loans, Institutional Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Work-Study Programs, Tuition Waivers, and External and Merit-Based Scholarships

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UMT is one of the most affordable universities that provides you with a generous number of programs that reduce educational expenses. The university also offers different kinds of loans for students to ease the burden of their current costs of education.

Learn more about the University of Montana’s Joint Degree Programs.

Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University

Tuition Fee: $1,165 per semester (In-State) | $1,165 per semester (Out-Of-State)

Arizona State University offers one of the country’s least expensive Master of Legal Studies degrees through the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. The program is offered in six concentrations, namely Sustainability Law, Sports Law & Business, Intellectual Property Law; H.R. & Employment Law; Criminal Law; and Corporate and Health Care Compliance.

The 30-credit hour program covers the concepts of law and the disciplines it comprises, such as sports, sustainability, entrepreneurship, engineering, and banking. It has ten classes, each covering seven and a half weeks. Completion of the U.S. Law and Legal Analysis is required for all prospective graduates. Candidates must have previously earned a baccalaureate degree for admission to ASU’s MLS program.

Types of Aid: Scholarships, Tuition Assistance, G.I. Bill Benefits, Grants, and Loans

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Arizona State University’s affordable tuition fees make it stand out in the competition to provide you with one of the cheapest Master of Legal Studies through distance learning. Aside from affordable tuition, ASU provides a flexible and accelerated program with customizable courses.

Learn more about Arizona State University’s Master of Legal Studies.

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Liberty University

Tuition Fee: $565 Per Hour (Full-Time) | $615 Per Hour (Part-Time)

Liberty University has a well-balanced Juris Master program suitable for prospective students working in criminal justice, public administration, and business. With an emphasis on American Legal Education, this program offers an in-depth understanding of domestic concepts, including American business law, economics, contracts, and criminal law.

These courses help non-lawyers stand out in the competition that generally interconnects with the legal sectors around the country. Since the program is taught entirely online, it only takes 24 months for students to earn this degree while pursuing other professional obligations. If you prefer to pursue a more global legal education, you can pursue Liberty University’s online master’s degree program in law with an emphasis on International Legal Studies.

Types of Aid: Internal, External, and Merit-Based Scholarships, Grants, First Responder Discounts, Military Tuition Discounts, Small Business Discounts, Transfer Student Scholarships, Corporate Tuition Assistance, Corporate Tuition Affiliates, Direct Loans, Direct PLUS and Grad PLUS Loans, and Private Student Loan Listing

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Liberty University is one of Virginia’s most recognized universities that offers 100% online programs along with affordable tuition fees. Also, the university helps ease the educational expenses of its students through generous transfer credit programs and tuition discounts for eligible applicants. Professionals can avail of the university’s corporate tuition assistance from L.U.’s partner organizations.

Learn more about Liberty University’s Juris Master in American Legal Studies.

Webster University

St. Louis, Missouri

Webster University

Tuition Fee: $730 Per Credit Hour (In-State) | $730 Per Credit Hour (Online)

Webster University has a 100% online Master of Arts in Legal Studies delivered through the university’s College of Arts and Sciences. The 39-credit hour program is integrated with core courses, including Jurisprudence, Ethics for the Legal Professional, Criminal Actions, Computerized Legal Research, and Anglo-American Legal History. All prospective graduates must also comply with a master’s Research and Writing Projects.

They also have the selection to pursue a contemporary certificate in paralegal studies or complete a Legal Studies internship program. Students will graduate with a concrete foundation in law-related concepts and the capabilities to quickly comprehend more complex issues they might encounter in their professional endeavors.

Types of Aid: Student Loans, External, Internal, and Merit-Based Scholarships, Graduate Assistantships, Veterans’ Educational Benefits, and Grants

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Webster University has been ranked 15th in Best Colleges for Veterans by the U.S. News and World Report. It was recognized as one of the Best Value Schools in the country. With numerous financial aid programs and scholarship opportunities, there’s no doubt that the university is one of the most famous universities in the U.S.

Learn more about Webster University’s Master of Arts in Legal Studies.

Hamline University

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Hamline University

Tuition Fee: $836 Per Credit

Hamline University offers an accredited online master’s degree in law that also comes with numerous concentrations for students to choose from. Prospective graduates can specialize in Litigation, Social Justice, or Conflict Resolution. The program is integrated with immersive opportunities where students can participate in the study of law and its related concepts. Hence, they earn a comprehensive understanding of how the legal system affects and interconnects with numerous industries.

If they want to acquire career-oriented capabilities in the legal sector, they can choose the Professional Practice Management concentration.

Types of Aid: Grants, Scholarship Programs, Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, Federal Unsubsidized Loans, Alternative Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Direct Parent Plus Loans, Federal Direct Graduate Plus Loans, Federal VA Educational Benefits, Yellow Ribbon Program, Minnesota GI Bill, Tuition Assistance DECIDE, and Transfer Military Credits

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Learn more about Hamline University’s Master in the Study of Law.

Drexel University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Drexel University

Tuition Fee: $880 Per Credit

Drexel University has a Master of Legal Studies offered through the university’s Thomas R. Kline School of Law. Designed for working adults, the program develops a general understanding of the law and its application to almost any industry and sector.

Prospective graduates can pursue a general studies program or choose one from eight specializations, including Sports Law, Higher Education Compliance, Healthcare Compliance, and Criminal Law. The program discusses different concepts such as risk management, professional standards, legal research and analysis, ethics, and compliance.

Core subjects include Risk Assessment and Management, Legal Research and Analysis, Ethics and Professional Standards, and Compliance Skills. Drexel’s Master of Legal Studies culminates with a capstone research requirement. It can be completed on a part-time or full-time commitment, depending on the student’s preferences.

Types of Aid: Employer Reimbursement Tuition Deferment Plan, Reduced Military Rates, Federal Direct Loans for Students, Federal Direct Loans for Parents, Federal Loans, Private Loans, Grants, Scholarship Programs, Federal Work-Study Programs, and Work-Study Employers

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Drexel University helps students lessen the cost of their graduate studies through discounted rates, tuition reimbursement programs from affiliated organizations, and different types of grants/scholarships.

Learn more about Drexel University’s Master of Legal Studies.

University of Oklahoma

Norman, Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma

Tuition Fee: $550 Per Credit (In-State) | $998 (Out-Of-State)

The University of Oklahoma provides students with a Master of Legal Studies through O.U.’s College of Law. The 100% online law-related program has four areas of concentration, namely Oil, Gas, and Energy Law; International Business Law; Indigenous People’s Law; and Healthcare Law.

The 32­-credit hour MLS program is flexible, providing students with the opportunity to study while pursuing personal and professional obligations. It has a cohort-based structure with small class sizes where students will progress in their learning at similar paces and gain personalized attention. This program can be earned as quickly as 15 months.

Types of Aid: Merit-Based Scholarships, Grants, Federal Work-Study, Federal Loans, and Private Loans

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The University of Oklahoma doesn’t only offer flexible learning opportunities but also affordable law-related programs. Students can take advantage of O.U.’s wide range of scholarship programs and grants as well as different types of loans to finance their graduate studies.

Learn more about the University of Oklahoma’s Master of Legal Studies.

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

University of Arizona

Tuition Fee: $650 per credit hour

The University of Arizona grants a Master of Legal Studies through James E. Rogers College of Law. The graduate program can be earned either on a full-time or part-time commitment. Prospective graduates can select from 11 specializations, including but not limited to Intellectual Property, Human Rights, and Criminal Law and Policy.

The 30-credit program is integrated with core courses such as Procedure; Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research; The American Public Law System; and The American Common Law System. The courses have seven and a half or 16 weeks in program duration.

Types of Aid: Merit-Based and Need-Based Scholarships, Federal Work-Study, Graduate Plus Loans, Montgomery GI Bill Education Benefits, Stafford Loans, Yellow Ribbon Institution, Qualified Tuition Reduction, In-State Tuition for Honorably Discharged Veterans, Legislative Internship Scholarships, Bar Study Loans, Student Loans, and Fellowships

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The University of Arizona has been ranked in the U.S. News and World Report as one of the country’s Best Value Schools. It provides students with several opportunities to lessen the cost of their graduate studies through scholarship programs, loans, and specialized tuition benefits. Also, it offers a tuition reduction program for its qualified applicants.

Learn more about the University of Arizona’s Master of Legal Studies.

Trinity International University

Santa Ana, California

Trinity International University

Tuition Fee: $750 Per Unit

Trinity International University’s Master of Legal Studies is considered one of the most affordable programs in California for law-related education. Integrated with Christian values and learning, the instructors provide a foundation of a uniquely Christian perspective in the university’s MLS program. Its core curriculum integrates mandatory Philosophy and Theology of Justice coursework along with law-related courses.

TIU’s MLS program delivers four specializations discussing unique fields such as Human Rights, Non-Profit Organizations, and Bioethics. It also has an optional specialization in Church and Ministry Management. This specialization covers relevant concepts such as religious organizations, strategic planning, and staffing & compensation.

Types of Aid: Merit-Based Scholarships, Need-Based Scholarships, Bar Study Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Direct PLUS Loans for Graduates

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As a Christian university, TIU offers numerous need-based scholarship programs as one of its commitments to affordable and top-quality education. The university doesn’t only provide students with tuition assistance related to their programs but also helps in students’ bar preparation through bar study loans.

Learn more about Trinity International University’s Master of Legal Studies.

New York University

New York, New York

New York University

Tuition Fee: $2,101 Per Unit

The Master of Studies in Law – Taxation at New York University is one of the most affordable programs in the state. It is uniquely designed for 100% online completion on part-time attendance. Depending on the student’s preference, it can be earned with 24- to 30-credit hours. Its curriculum emphasizes regulatory, policies, and judicial aspects of tax law. The program only requires one required course in Survey of Tax Procedure.

Aspiring graduates can customize the rest of their degrees by selecting from courses such as Tax Fraud and Technology, International Tax, and Estate and Gift Taxation. Professors have comprehensive knowledge of subjects, including tax policies, corporate mergers, and complex partnership transactions. Students can complete this program in 24 months or five years.

Types of Aid: Merit-Based Scholarships, Graduate Scholarships, Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants, Veterans Benefits, Tuition Assistance Programs, Federal Direct Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, and Private Alternative Loans

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New York University offers numerous opportunities for prospective graduates to lessen their educational expenses through its tuition assistance programs to qualified candidates. The university also has a vast range of loan types and scholarship programs.

Learn more about New York University’s Master of Studies in Law in Taxation.

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, Florida

Saint Leo University

Tuition Fee: $670 Per Credit Hour

Saint Leo University runs a Master of Science in Criminal Justice program with a concentration in Legal Studies. suitable for government officials, first responders, criminal justice administrators, and correctional officers, the specialized program is offered at the College of Education and Social Services.

The 36-credit hour program has integrated core course works, including Leadership Applications in Criminal Justice; and Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice Administration. Students can also customize their program with electives in Terrorism in Israel, Criminal Sexual Behavior, and Advanced Forensic Science courses.

Types of Aid: Grants, Merit-Based and Need-Based Scholarship Programs, Tuition Assistance, Montgomery GI Bill Programs, Yellow Ribbon Program, Vocational Rehabilitation Benefit, VA Work-Study Programs, Veterans Upward Bound, Federal Loans, Private Loans, and Corporate Assistance

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Saint Leo University has a reputable reputation in terms of innovative and affordable learning around the country. It is considered one of the country’s first institutions of higher learning to adopt distance learning. Also, it has received recognition as one of the U.S. News and World Report listings for the Best Value Schools in the country. The university helps reduce educational expenses through different scholarship programs and tuition assistance from affiliated companies.

Learn more about Saint Leo University’s Master of Science – Legal Studies.

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri

Washington University in St. Louis

Tuition Fee: $2,687 per credit

The Master of Legal Studies offered by Washington University in St. Louis’ School of Law is designed for busy working individuals. It is one of the country’s most inexpensive law-related graduate programs that develops a core understanding of the U.S. Legal System. The program discusses concepts including intellectual property, healthcare law, corporate compliance, and contracts.

Discussions are integrated with the Socratic method to encourage stimulation through debates and discussions. Hopeful graduates develop expertise in negotiations, constitutional law, and civil procedures. They have the option to participate in a weekend learning experience at school during spring and fall terms. Students can earn this degree in as quickly as 12 months.

Types of Aid: Need-Based Scholarship Programs, Merit-Based Scholarships, University Awards/Grants, Federal Student Loans, Private Student Loans, Grad PLUS Loans, Alternative Loans, International Education Financial Aid, and Loan Repayment Assistance Programs.

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WUSTL has earned a reputation from the U.S. News and World Report as one of the Best Value Schools in the country. With numerous scholarship programs and different types of loans, prospective graduates can reduce the cost of their education expenses while completing the graduate program. The university also has dedicated financial aid exclusively for international students.

Learn more about Washington University in St. Louis’ Master of Legal Studies.

Regent University

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Regent University

Tuition Fee: $715 per credit hour

Regent University’s School of Law has a Master of Arts in Law with a specialization in General Legal Studies program that was developed for busy working adults. Although it is a 100% online graduate program, students can take on-campus classes if they prefer. They are required to have a minimum of 30 credit hours for program completion.

The program has core foundational courses in Legislation & Regulation; Constitutional Law & Policy; American Legal System and Writing; and American Legal Thought. With concentrated coursework in Property Law & Policy, Criminal Law, and Business Entities, graduates develop comprehensive knowledge in the aspects of law and complete their program in just five semesters.

Types of Aid: TEACH Grant, Federal Stafford Loans, Graduate PLUS Loans, Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant, Virginia Teaching Scholarship Loan Program, Virginia Community College Transfer Grant, School-Based Scholarships, Private Loans, Private Grants & Scholarships, and Bar Study Loans

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As one of the most reputable universities in Virginia, Regent University offers Virginia-based students different kinds of state-based scholarship programs and grants. The university also offers financial assistance to students preparing for the bar examinations through bar study loans.

Learn more about Regent University’s Master of Arts in Law – General Studies.

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Wake Forest University

Tuition Fee: $1,074 per credit hour

The Master of Studies in Law offered by Wake Forest University can be completed on an entirely online full-time or part-time commitment. Learners can choose a specialization in Human Resources, Health Law & Policy, Business Law & Compliance track. The 30-credit hour graduate program is integrated with core foundational courses in The Unauthorized Practice of Law, Legal Foundations, and Business Law and Literacy.

Students can also customize their program by adding some of the unique elective courses, including Telemedicine, International Compliance, and Bioethics and the Law. As part of the completion requirement, they can opt to pursue a capstone project that involves real-world workplace challenges and applicable resolutions. They can either complete their program in as little as 21 months or up to 48 months.

Types of Aid: Federal Loan Programs, Private Educational Loans, External Scholarships, Law School Scholarships, Student Employment Opportunities, Federal Work-Study Programs, Montgomery GI Bill Programs, Yellow Ribbon Award, and Veterans Benefits

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Wake Forest University provides students with a variety of opportunities to reduce the expense of their graduate programs. The university also provides scholarship programs exclusively for law school students as well as different kinds of federal and alternative/private loans.

Learn more about Wake Forest University’s Master of Studies in Law.

Hodges University

Naples, Florida

Hodges University

Tuition Fee: $830 Per Credit Hour

Hodges University has a Master of Science in Legal Studies that can be completed online. Students for this graduate program are required to have a baccalaureate degree before admission. The program is suitable for students seeking a legal studies master’s program, foundations for law education, or paralegal certification.

It is specially developed for individuals who do not necessarily aim to become attorneys but whose professions could take advantage of legal training and development. The program develops aptitude and capabilities for careers in political science, healthcare, communications, business, and even information sectors.

Types of Aid: Federal Aid, State Aid, Discount Programs, Corporate Rates, Institutional Scholarships, Veteran Scholarships, Merit-Based Scholarship Programs, and Loans

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Hodges University does not only have a reputation for being one of the most diverse schools in the U.S. but also one of the inexpensive universities offering different options to reduce educational expenses. The university helps professional students ease their financial burdens in their graduate program through corporate rates from affiliated companies.

Learn more about Hodges University’s Juris Master in Legal Studies

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Nova Southeastern University

Tuition Fee: $43,044 (Full-Time) | $32,277 (Part-Time)

The Shepard Broad College of Law of Nova Southeastern University offers a Master of Science in Law developed explicitly for professional students. It is one of the most inexpensive law programs offered, with maximum flexibility and a self-paced study format. Students can pursue a specialization in Law and Policy; Health Law; Employment Law; or Educational Law.

While this graduate program is available to students with a baccalaureate degree, enrollment in Health Law and Employment Law requires a minimum of two years of significant work experience. The graduate program concludes with a four-credit capstone requirement. Aspiring graduates also have the choice to complete an Honors Thesis. They can complete this graduate degree in as quickly as 24 months.

Types of Aid: Veterans Benefits, NSU Yellow Ribbon Scholarship, Graduate Institutional Scholarship Programs, External Scholarships, Federal Grant Programs, Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, GRAD Plus, Private/Alternative Loans, Merit Scholarships, Montgomery GI Bill, and NSU Payment Plan

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Nova Southeastern University isn’t only considered one of the Top 200 graduate law schools in the country but also has a reputation for being one of the inexpensive law programs around Florida. It has a generous number of grants, scholarship programs, and loans for its students who wish to reduce the cost of their graduate program. NSU also offers unique payment plans for qualified applicants.

Learn more about Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Science in Law.

Samford University

Birmingham, Alabama

Samford University

Tuition Fee: $924 Per Credit

Through the Cumberland School of Law, Samford University delivers a flexible Master of Studies in Law program. It is solely designed for non-lawyer candidates searching for career progression in their current professions. They can opt to pursue a specific area of expertise in legal project management, financial services regulatory compliance, higher education law and compliance, and health law and policy.

The program requires 36 credit hours for completion and can be earned entirely online in as quickly as two years. Prospective graduates take two courses per term for six consecutive semesters.

Types of Aid: Bar Prep Loans, Need-Based and Merit-Based Scholarships, Grad PLUS Loans, Graduate Stafford Loans, Private Education Loans, Student Loan Forgiveness, Grants, and Federal Work-Study Programs

Admission Requirements:

Accreditations:

Samford University is one of the few universities around Alabama that offers financial aid for students who are preparing for bar examinations. Qualified applicants may have the opportunity to lessen the cost of their graduate program fees through Samford’s variety of scholarship programs, loans, and grants. They may also apply for student loan forgiveness and submit the necessary documentation.

Learn more about Samford University’s Master of Studies in Law.

Pepperdine University

Malibu, California

Pepperdine University

Tuition Fee: $2,340 per unit

Pepperdine University has a Master of Legal Studies offered through Pepperdine Law. The online graduate program provides students with the option to specialize in human resources or dispute resolution. The 32-credit hour program covers the subjects of research, regulatory compliance, negotiation, and lawsuits. Students take core required courses such as Legal Writing, Contracts, and Constitutional Law.

Intellectual Property, Health Law, and Business Organizations are some of the elective offerings for this graduate program. Prospective graduates also have the chance to participate in mock trials and case studies during two on-campus residence programs.

Types of Aid: Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, Private Loans, Employer Tuition Assistance, and External Scholarships

Admission Requirements:

Accreditations:

Pepperdine University helps prospective graduates by offering them the opportunity to reduce their educational expenses through employer tuition assistance programs. Considered one of the affordable schools for a Master’s in Law in California, Pepperdine provides students with different types of loans and scholarship programs for qualified applicants.

Learn more about Pepperdine University’s Master of Legal Studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between the M.L. degree and the LL.M. degree?

The main difference between an M.L. degree and an LL.M. degree is the focus of the studies. An ML degree typically focuses on foundational legal knowledge, while an LL.M. degree typically focuses on more advanced legal topics. Additionally, an M.L. degree is typically a one-year program, while an LL.M. degree is typically a two-year program.

Are Master’s in Law (M.L. or LL.M.) graduate schools affordable?

The costs related to a Master’s in Law degree program depend on the school you choose and the location. Many law schools offer scholarships, grants, and other financial aid packages to help make the cost more affordable.

One of your primary concerns when choosing a program is its accreditation. It is important to research the different programs available to determine the best option for you.

How important is accreditation in a Master’s in Law (M.L. or LL.M.) grad program?

Accreditation is extremely important when selecting a Master’s in Law program. Accreditation is a process of assessment and recognition of a program’s quality, which is conducted by a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards of the profession and provides assurance of quality to employers, students, and the public.

Accredited programs are also more likely to be eligible for financial aid, transfers of credits, and acceptance into other advanced programs. Additionally, many states require graduates of an accredited program to be eligible to take the bar exam. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the program is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Which LL.M. degree is best for me?

Ultimately, the best LL.M. degree for you is the one that best suits your career goals and interests. Some of the most popular LL.M. degree programs include:

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.