Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do MLS students take law school classes?
Yes. MLS students are required to take a year-long Introduction to Law & Legal Analysis course designed specifically for someone in this program and complete a capstone project. The remaining courses are taken with our JD students.
Q: How do I apply to the MLS Program?
At this time, Capital University Law School is pausing the Master of Legal Studies program. We are not accepting applications at this time. Thank you.
Q: What does the admission committee consider?
The admission committee considers all aspects of a candidate’s application. Each component is important and given significant consideration in our decision. We consider your work experience, undergraduate experience, references, personal statement, and, if necessary, an acceptable standardized test score (for example, the LSAT, GRE or GMAT).
Q: Do I have to take a standardized test?
Generally, no. Candidates are not required to take tests like the LSAT, GRE or GMAT as a condition for application. If a candidate choses to submit test scores, the admission committee will include those scores as part of the candidate’s admission. The admission committee, however, reserves the right to ask the candidate to take the LSAT, GRE or GMAT if they do not meet the other requirements for the program (for example, the candidate lacks significant work experience or has below a 3.0 undergraduate GPA).
Q: My undergraduate performance doesn’t illustrate my potential. How much will it hurt me?
Not everyone does well as an undergraduate. The reasons vary. Your undergraduate experience is only one component considered by the admission committee.
Q: Do I have to have an interview?
Typically, no. If there are questions about your application, the Assistant Dean for Graduate & Professional Law Programs or the admission committee may schedule a personal interview with you. We want to make sure the MLS Program is a good fit for you and meets all your professional and educational objectives.
Q: When will I know your admission decision?
One of the advantages of a small university is that the admissions process is quick. Once we have all the components of your application, we can usually make a decision in less than a week.
Q: When can I start the MLS Program?
The MLS Program will start new students in the fall semester each year.
Q: How long will it take for me to finish the MLS degree?
The answer depends on you and your goals. As a full-time student, you can complete the degree in one academic year (3 consecutive semesters). If you choose to attend as a part-time student, you can complete the degree in two academic years taking a minimum of 3 credit hours each semester and at least one semester of 4 or more credit hours.
Q: Is financial aid available?
Yes. You must take a minimum of 3 credit hours to qualify for financial aid in any given semester.
Q: What can I do with a MLS degree?
The MLS degree is a relatively new degree being offered by many institutions, including law schools. You may see the degree identified as the Master of Jurisprudence (MJ), the Master of Science of Law (MSL), or the Juris Master (JM). The importance of the degree is the same; to impart on professionals a working knowledge of the law and ability to analyze and evaluate legal issues without imposing the stringent requirements necessary for someone to obtain a law license to practice law.
Q: What if I decide I want to go to law school after starting or completing the MLS Program? I am taking JD courses, so will those transfer into a JD program?
No. The American Bar Association prohibits the transfer of credits from an MLS program into a JD program. If you are seriously considering law school, please talk to the JD admission team before committing to the MLS program.
Q: With all the legal knowledge I will learn in the MLS Program, can I give legal advice at work or to friends and family?
No. Only a licensed attorney may provide legal advice. Anyone else doing so is committing the unauthorized practice of law.