Master of Studies in Law (MSL) via Distance Learning

Lewis & Clark Law School’s Environmental, Natural Resources, and Energy Law program is one of the top environmental law programs in the United States (US News and World Report.) The program’s Master of Studies in Environmental, Natural Resources, and Energy Law (MSL) for non-lawyers is now available via a flexible and engaging online format.

The MSL graduate degree is for those who have a bachelor’s degree and are interested in learning about environmental law and policy, but who do not wish to practice law or obtain a law degree. MSL graduates move on to a wide variety of jobs, including with legislatures, corporate leadership, the nonprofit sector, federal agency administration, teaching, and journalism. LSAT and GRE testing are not required to apply.

Please note that MSL students are graded on a Credit/No-Credit or Honors basis. Credits in the MSL program do not transfer to a JD program.

Application forms are now available; contact us at envlawmsl@lclark.edu with questions.

 

Apply Now for the Online Program

 

We admit students on a rolling basis and encourage earlier applications in order to process financial aid and for course selection.

Federal Financial Aid

If you intend to apply for federal financial aid, please do not wait to be admitted or registered to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ® ) form (fafsa.gov) as financial aid decisions may take some time to process. Instructions and more information can be found at https://www.lclark.edu/offices/financial_aid/law/.

Tuition Awards Available

If you are applying for the MSL program and would like to be considered for a partial tuition award, please send an email to elaw@lclark.edu.

Please see our online course line up here.

Why pursue a distance learning MSL at Lewis & Clark?

  • Lewis & Clark Law School’s environmental law program is one of the top programs in the nation (US News & World Report).
  • The courses are offered 100% online, and coursework is interactive and flexible.
  • The MSL curriculum is designed to the same level of excellence as our on-campus courses.
  • You will have access to many of the same professors, content, and world-class learning experiences as in-person students.
  • We offer personal attention to every student, including assigned Lewis & Clark faculty advisors and dedicated staff.
  • You can gain your degree without relocating, quitting your job, or altering your other commitments.
  • Federal Financial aid is available (fafsa.gov)
  • Tuition awards are available through Lewis & Clark.
  • You will interact and network with other online students 
  • The MSL degree at Lewis & Clark helps prepare you for a variety of career opportunities.

Contact Us

Application Requirements

  • Applicants for the MSL program must:
  • Have a bachelor’s degree – no JD is required
  • Demonstrate an excellent academic record, and strong research and writing skills
  • Have a genuine interest in environmental, natural resources, or energy law
  • Writing sample of 5-7 pages
  • GRE or LSAT test scores are not required

Expert Faculty

Your faculty for the online MSL are many of the same professors to which our on-campus environmental law students have access. No matter the program, class, or faculty–our students come first. Learn more about our faculty.

Program Structure

Designed to accommodate working professionals, this program is geared to maximize your time and help you reach your goal. The program is offered 100% online, and you will have access to technical support, interactive learning elements, virtual office hours, and more. Lewis & Clark’s MSL program requires completion of 26 semester hours of credit, including the following required courses: Environmental Law, Administrative Law, Introduction to US Environmental Law and Legal Studies.

Reach out to an Environmental Law team member and learn more about the Lewis & Clark difference. Our MSL program staff is always happy to answer your questions. 

For consumer information please visit our student consumer information page.