MSL in Environmental Law

Lewis & Clark Law School’s Environmental, Natural Resources, and Energy Law program and center is top-ranked in the United States by US News and World Report, and offers a Master of Studies in Environmental, Natural Resources, and Energy Law (MSL) for non-lawyers.

The Master of Studies in Environmental. Natural Resources, and Energy Law (MSL) graduate degree is for those who have a bachelor’s degree and are interested in learning about environmental law, but who do not wish to practice law or obtain a law degree. Potential students include federal agency employees, teachers, elected officials, journalists, and people pursuing careers in lobbying or nonprofit organizations, as well as business people who want a better understanding of environmental regulations. 

We provide outstanding staff support for our MSL students as well as one-on-one access with our renowned faculty members who are some of the nation’s leading scholars.

On Campus Program         Online Program

We offer Environmental Law MSL tuition awards based on merit and need. 

We consider applications on a rolling basis and accept applications throughout the year. Our MSL program staff are always happy to answer your questions. Contact us at elaw@lclark.edu or 503-768-6784.

  • Sami Godlove, MSL '23 (online)

    “The courses I took provided me with in-depth knowledge of environmental laws relevant to my work, such as the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Forest Management Act.”

    Sami Godlove MSL ’23
    More about Sami
  • Kayla Sardarov, MSL '24

    “To make a meaningful impact in the field [of environmental policy], I realized I needed to learn the legal side of environmental issues as well. The MSL degree allowed me to bridge that gap, equipping me with the tools to advocate for sustainable practices and influence policy change.”

    Kayla Sardarov MSL ’24
    More about Kayla
  • Olivia Smith MSL '26

    “The MSL program deepened my understanding of the laws and regulations that exist at the state and federal level, as well as the Tribal resources and necessary processes to protect fish and wildlife.”

    Olivia Smith MSL ’26
    More about Olivia