The UC Law San Francisco Master of Studies in Law (MSL) is designed for individuals who do not seek to practice law, but who instead want to equip themselves with a more sophisticated understanding of legal reasoning and doctrine.

The MSL degree can be completed full-time in one-year or part-time over 1-1/2 to 4 years. The MSL program provides the flexibility of two learning modes: fully online (asynchronous and/or synchronous) and hybrid-flexible (combination of online and in-person).

Professionals in most fields increasingly interact with attorneys and participate in legal processes. Yet, most people have little training in the language and structures of the law. An MSL degree will not only help you further your own career and magnify your impact with a deep understanding of legal reasoning and doctrine, but it will also give you the tools to help make your organization more competitive.

We encourage you to sign up for our email listtour our virtual campus, or sign up for an advising appointment to learn more about our MSL degree.

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MSL Enrollment Options

UC Law San Francisco is committed to offering legal knowledge to those who need it in ways that fit their busy lives. The Master of Studies in Law (MSL) program provides the flexibility of two learning modes — fully online and hybrid-flexible — to allow even the busiest of our MSL students to achieve their educational goals.

  • The fully online mode allows students to choose to complete their studies entirely synchronously, entirely asynchronously, or a combination of both. 
  • The hybrid-flexible mode combines the advantages of online and in-person classes and allows for more tailoring of coursework. All specializations can be pursued through the hybrid-flexible mode.

Both learning modes can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis, leading to degree completion in one to four years.

MSL Enrollment Options

MSL Program Specializations

MSL students who opt to take classes in the hybrid-flexible mode can choose to pursue one of 15 specializations, providing a focused and enriching educational experience for those seeking a more specialized skill set. If your particular area of focus is not listed, you can design your own specialization in close coordination with your faculty advisor.

MSL Program Specializations

How to Apply

Gain a sophisticated understanding of legal reasoning and doctrine in the UC Law San Francisco MSL program and make an impact in your industry and your community. The MSL application opens on September 1 each year and are reviewed on a rolling basis. The priority deadline for admission consideration is April 15.

Start Your Application

The MSL Student Experience

Join the MSL Email List

Learn more about the MSL program by joining our email list.

Request More Information

MSL Events

Join us for a MSL webinar hosted by the MSL Admissions Office and MSL Academic Department.

Register for Webinar

Need Help

Book an advising appointment for personalized guidance on the MSL Program and Application Process.

Admissions Advising

Virtual Campus Tour

Contact Us

We encourage you to sign up for our email list or for an advising appointment to learn more about our MSL degree. Check out our list of upcoming events and webinars.

UC Law San Francisco
MSL Admissions
200 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
+1-415-565-4880
msl@uclawsf.edu