An MLS specialization gives your legal studies a clear focus. Each specialization is a guided course of study in one area of law, designed by Loyola faculty who teach and practice in that field. You build in-depth knowledge of the legal issues you are most likely to encounter in your work, and you complete the program with a credential that tells employers exactly where your expertise lies.
What It Means to Complete a Specialization
Every MLS student completes at least 24 units of coursework, including two required courses. When you choose a specialization, that path becomes more focused. Your required first-semester JD course is selected to match your specialization, and the rest of your coursework combines required courses in your field with electives chosen from an approved list. The requirements for each specialization are listed on its page.
You take your specialization courses alongside law students and learn from the same faculty, so you study your field at the same depth as future lawyers. The MLS faculty advisor works with you to plan your schedule.
Our Specializations
Business Law
Learn how businesses are formed, financed, governed, and regulated. This specialization suits entrepreneurs, managers, financial professionals, and anyone who negotiates contracts, works with investors, or helps a company grow.
Criminal Justice
Study how the American criminal justice system works, from investigation and prosecution to sentencing and reform. This specialization suits professionals in law enforcement, corrections, social services, journalism, policy, and advocacy.
Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
Understand the legal obligations that govern how organizations collect, use, and protect data, and how they must respond when a breach occurs. This specialization suits IT and security professionals, compliance officers, and managers in data-driven businesses.
Entertainment & New Media Law
Learn the legal and business foundations of film, television, music, and digital media at a law school consistently ranked among the top entertainment law schools by The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. This specialization suits producers, executives, agents, creators, and anyone working on the business side of the entertainment industry.
Prefer a Broader Program?
A specialization is an option, not a requirement. If your interests span several areas of law, you can complete our fully customizable Self-Designed MLS. With the guidance of the MLS faculty advisor, you choose from more than 325 elective courses to build a program around your career goals.
Questions?
Our Graduate Admissions team is happy to help you decide whether a specialization or the Self-Designed MLS is the right fit. Contact us at mlsprogram@lls.edu.