The Master of Arts in Legal Studies degree program presents a course of study in public law, emphasizing law as a social phenomenon as well as a technical body of rules. The legal studies graduate curriculum allows students to gain professional skills as they learn about legal structure and theory and the role of law in American society. It provides students with a broad general understanding of the legal system, how the system works, how it interrelates with societal change, and how it helps people assert their rights. Particular emphasis is placed on analytical and conceptual thinking, legal research and writing, substantive areas of the law, concerns of ethical and public interest and public advocacy skills. The curriculum seeks to develop the students' professional and scholarly abilities with a view to the kinds of skills legal studies graduates will need in law-related careers or more advanced studies.
In addition to completing the UIS Application for Graduate Admission, to be admitted to the M.A in Legal Studies degree program, applicants must complete the program application (available below), submit three references using the reference form also published on-line, and provide a sample of analytical writing of an essay provided by the Department in a format stipulated in the on-line instructions.
Hard copies of materials may be requested from the Department by calling: (217) 206-6535 or contacting the department via email: les@uis.edu.
All Legal Studies Department applications and supporting documentation should be sent to:
Legal Studies MA Admissions Committee - PAC 340
University of Illinois at Springfield
One University Plaza - PAC 340
Springfield, IL 62703-5407
To be eligible for full admission to the Master of Arts in Legal Studies program applicants must satisfactorily show they are able to handle the level and kind of work required for a masters degree, including having earned a baccalaureate degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
View the Legal Studies graduate admission checklist
See the Legal Studies Program website for full information about the M.A.L.S.