Returning to school mid-career is a major decision, and many prospective students wonder what the experience is really like. If you’re considering the George Washington Law Master of Studies in Law (MSL), this article offers an inside look at the program—told by those who’ve lived it.
Flexible, Career-Focused Learning
The GW MSL program is designed to help students succeed. It offers a flexible learning approach with fully online, on campus, and mixed modality options. The program’s highly practical coursework enables students to apply their learnings long before graduation, contributing to a fulfilling learning experience.
John McKnight, senior project manager at The Aerospace Corporation, was surprised by how quickly he was able to capitalize on his learning, saying, “I have used the skills learned at GW almost immediately. I can’t believe how applicable this education has been to my day-to-day supporting federal procurement.” He also notes that the support he received made it easier to manage a demanding schedule: “I missed a final once due to a grueling work schedule, and the team at GW, being committed to student success, helped me get through it.”
Joseph Berling, a management consulting manager at Accenture, shares a similar experience: “The MSL has expanded how I perceive the purpose and function of our government procurement system… It has translated into more robust discussions with government contracting clients who are undergoing digital transformations and a better ability to anticipate their requirements.”
Lorna Macfarlane, who works in fraud investigation and policy reform, also appreciated the relevance of the program curriculum. She observes: “My knowledge base has increased tenfold thanks to the curriculum, and because the curriculum translates immediately to the projects I support, it unintentionally doubles as job training.”
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Support That Meets You Where You Are
GW Law invests in students’ success through strong academic and professional support, including mentorship, networking and one-on-one career counseling. Ayanna Wilson, an acquisition program manager at the Department of Defense, says, “I truly value the expert professors who engaged the students to ensure that we understood.” Shawn Caton, senior associate at Decisive Point, agrees. “The faculty is of the highest quality and hugely helpful,” he says. Roberto Macoto notes: “I could not have asked for better unwavering support to accommodate my professional schedule and limited previous experience, and ensuring I had the tools to succeed.”
Growth Beyond the Classroom
In addition to acquiring industry-relevant legal expertise, GW MSL students refine their analytical thinking, leadership capabilities and professional self-assurance. Lorna Macfarlane notes: “The advice I provide on projects has morphed since I began the program. I write differently, I read differently, I interpret differently. I speak with more authority and confidence”.
Roberto Macoto, a Department of Defense professional, observes that MSL strengthened his strategic thinking and broadened his approach to national security and technology policy.
Community You Didn’t Expect (But Needed)
Despite its flexible format, the GW MSL fosters student connection and community. Lorna Macfarlane says she felt connected to her classmates despite the virtual format. “GW Law is a community,” she states. Roberto Macoto most valued the “rich discussion with other professionals” the MSL program afforded. Jose Brandon, branch chief in the National Security Services Division at FEMA, shares that he regularly connected with other GW Law students outside of class: “I had the chance to meet with a few LLMs during weekends to go over projects and discuss class assignments.” He added that “learning from first-hand knowledge professionals was priceless.”
Conclusion: You Belong Here
The GW Law MSL is designed to cultivate legal fluency so non-lawyers can confidently lead conversations and initiatives involving legal and regulatory matters. You don’t need a legal background to apply! If you’re a mid-career professional with three to five years’ experience in your field, this degree could be for you. Connect with an enrollment advisor to learn more about the GW MSL and what it’s like to be part of the GW Law community. Or, start your application today if you’re ready.