Pursue a Master of Studies in Law (MSL) Degree Designed To Fit Your Life
Learn to navigate the law confidently in our rigorous MSL program for working professionals eager to accelerate their careers by acquiring specialized legal knowledge in government procurement law, national security and U.S. foreign relations law, national security and cybersecurity law, or government procurement and cybersecurity law.
Enjoy a Flexible, Student-Centered Learning Format
As a student in GW Law’s Master of Studies in Law program, you’ll benefit from a blend of structure and flexibility, with features that include:
Weekly live virtual classes
Engage directly with peers and faculty in dynamic online sessions that enhance the learning experience and deepen your understanding of course material.
Customizable learning pathways
Tailor your education to your life with full- or part-time study, and the option to earn your degree 100% online, on campus, or both modalities interchangeably as it suits your schedule.
Real-world application
Apply your knowledge in practical, immersive experiences, including mock negotiations, moderated discussions, written legal analyses, oral advocacy, and discussion boards.
Comprehensive support
Receive continuous guidance from inquiry through graduation, including mentorship, networking, and one-on-one career counseling.
Location in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Benefit from access to the nation’s hub of legal and policy activity.
Connect With a Like-Minded Professional Community
Students in the MSL program come from a variety of personal and professional backgrounds, bringing diverse experience from fields such as defense, national security, consulting, and government. What unites them is a desire to learn to apply the law in complex, high-impact environments. Through live virtual sessions and discussions, students form close working relationships within their cohort, fostering a strong sense of connection and community that endures beyond their time in the program.
Receive Support Every Step of the Way
We’re committed to assisting you throughout your studies and equipping you with the tools to pursue a successful career.
Academic support services:
- Orientation
- Tech support
- Online learning tools
- Student success coaching
Career support services:
- One-on-one advising
- Resume and professional development resources
- Professional networking opportunities
See Career Impact That Starts Now
GW Law’s Master of Studies in Law degree can help you take on new responsibilities, shift roles, or advance in highly regulated and policy-driven environments. Many of our students experience tangible career benefits while still enrolled in the program as a result of the relevant knowledge they acquire.
Career paths for MSL graduates:
Government roles
- Contract specialist/contracting officer
- Acquisition analyst/policy analyst
- Grants manager/federal grants specialist
- Program manager (with contracting oversight)
- Inspector general or compliance roles
- Procurement legal or policy advisor (non-JD)
Industry roles (government contractors, consulting firms, NGOs)
- Contracts manager/contracts administrator
- Procurement compliance officer/risk analyst
- Capture manager/proposal manager
- Acquisition policy consultant
- Cybersecurity compliance analyst
- Business development/government relations
Employers of our graduates include:
- Amazon
- Boeing
- Department of Defense
- Department of Homeland Security
- General Dynamics
- General Services Administration (GSA)
- Lockheed Martin
- Meta
- Northrop Grumman
- Raytheon
Read What Our Students Say
“The faculty is of the highest quality and hugely invested in our success.”
– Shawn Canton, MSL ’25
Senior Associate
Decisive Point
“I value the expert professors who took the time to ensure we understood the material. And the network of professionals I’ve connected with through the program has been invaluable.”
– Ayanna Wilson, MSL ’25
Acquisition Program Manager/Contracting Officer
Department of Defense
“What I valued most was the opportunity to learn from professors who are directly engaged in national security at the government level. Learning from first-hand knowledge professionals was priceless.”
– Jose Brandon, MSL ’21
Branch Chief
National Security Services Division
FEMA
Ready To Advance Your Career With Specialized Legal Expertise?
Apply to our Master of Studies in Law program today and gain the legal proficiency to unlock exciting new professional opportunities.
Start Your Journey