Program structure

The MS in Law program at the University of Maryland is designed to provide a flexible and practical legal education for professionals across various industries. The program is structured to offer both foundational legal knowledge and specialized expertise in areas such as health law, environmental law, cybersecurity law, and crisis management.

1. Core Curriculum:

   • The program begins with foundational courses that introduce key legal concepts and skills, such as legal research, writing, and an understanding of the U.S. legal system.

2. Specialized Tracks:

   • Students select a concentration based on their field of interest, such as:
     • Health Care Law
     • Cybersecurity Law
     • Environmental Law
     • Crisis Management
   • These tracks offer in-depth courses tailored to the legal challenges and regulations relevant to that specific area.

3. Elective Courses:

   • In addition to the required courses for their specialization, students can choose electives to further customize their education. Electives provide opportunities to explore additional legal topics relevant to their career.

4. Capstone Project:

   • The program culminates in a capstone project, where students apply their legal knowledge to a practical issue or project in their field of expertise.

5. Mode of Study:

   • The program offers flexible learning options, allowing students to complete their coursework either online, on-campus, or through a combination of both, to accommodate working professionals.

6. Duration:

   • The program can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on whether students choose to study full-time or part-time.

For more details, visit the MS in Law program page.

Fees and Funding

The fee and funding information for the MS in Law program at the University of Maryland is as follows:

Tuition and Fees:

• Maryland Residents: $928 per credit
• Non-Residents: $1,541 per credit

Estimated Annual Tuition:

Assuming 24 credits per year:

• Maryland Residents: 24 credits x $928 = $22,272 per year
• Non-Residents: 24 credits x $1,541 = $36,984 per year

Additional Fees:

• Additional fees may include health services, technology fees, and student activity fees. These can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per year, depending on enrollment status and other factors.

Funding Opportunities:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships:

   • The program offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships for highly qualified applicants.

2. Financial Aid:

   • Students may apply for federal financial aid, including loans. Completing the FAFSA is required to determine eligibility.

3. Employer Sponsorship:

   • Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for advanced professional degrees. Students are encouraged to explore this option with their employers.

For more detailed information, visit the Tuition & Fees page.

Scholarship Guidance

The scholarships and financial aid options for the MS in Law program at the University of Maryland include the following:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships:

• The University of Maryland Carey School of Law offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships for highly qualified applicants. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, professional experience, and potential for success in the program.

2. Financial Aid:

• Students may apply for federal financial aid, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is required to determine eligibility for federal aid programs.

3. Employer Tuition Assistance:

• Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for employees pursuing advanced degrees. Applicants are encouraged to explore this option with their current employers.

4. External Scholarships:

• Students may also pursue external scholarships from professional organizations, private foundations, or government programs that offer funding for advanced legal education.

5. Military and Veterans Benefits:

• The University of Maryland provides support for military veterans, active service members, and their families, including access to GI Bill® benefits and other military educational funding.

For more detailed information on available scholarships and financial aid options, visit the Scholarships & Aid page.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for the MS in Law program at the University of Maryland include the following:

1. Educational Background:

• Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The degree can be in any field, as this program is designed for professionals who wish to gain legal expertise in their respective industries.

2. Resume/CV:

• A current resume or curriculum vitae (CV) that highlights your educational background, work experience, and any relevant professional achievements.

3. Personal Statement:

• Applicants are required to submit a personal statement outlining their career goals, why they are interested in the MS in Law program, and how the program will help them achieve their professional objectives. The statement should also explain the applicant’s area of interest (e.g., health law, cybersecurity law, etc.).

4. Letters of Recommendation:

• One to two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can assess the applicant’s qualifications and potential for success in the program.

5. Transcripts:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted. These transcripts should reflect the applicant’s academic performance and degree completion.

6. English Language Proficiency (for International Applicants):

• International applicants whose first language is not English may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

7. No GRE or LSAT Required:

• The MS in Law program does not require GRE or LSAT scores for admission.

For more detailed information, visit the MS in Law Admissions page.

Application Procedure

To apply for the MS in Law program at the University of Maryland, follow these steps:

Application Process:

1. Submit Online Application:

   • Complete and submit the online application through the MS in Law Admissions page.

2. Application Fee:

   • A non-refundable application fee is required at the time of submission.

3. Transcripts:

   • Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. These should reflect your academic performance and qualifications for the program.

4. Resume/CV:

   • Include a current resume or CV highlighting your academic background, professional experience, and any relevant work in the legal field or your industry.

5. Personal Statement:

   • Submit a personal statement outlining your career goals, reasons for pursuing the MS in Law, and how the program aligns with your professional objectives.

6. Letters of Recommendation:

   • Provide one to two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your qualifications, professional experience, or academic potential.

7. English Proficiency (for International Applicants):

   • If English is not your first language, you may be required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

Deadlines:

• Application deadlines may vary, so check the admissions page for the specific timeline for your intended start date.

For more detailed instructions, visit the MS in Law Admissions page.