M.L.S. Specialization: Business Law


Available online, hybrid and/or on-campus for Part-Time and Full-Time Master of Legal Studies students.

Master the Business Landscape with Legal Expertise

UCLA Law's Master of Legal Studies in Business Law is a sought-after program designed for executives, investors, and real estate and asset management professionals. This flexible specialization equips you with the legal knowledge and skills to excel in today's complex business environment.

Sharpen Your Skills Alongside Industry Leaders

Our renowned faculty will guide you through core areas like contracts, taxation, compliance, business structures, and entrepreneurship. Gain practical insights and network with accomplished peers, giving you a significant edge in your career.

Lingyi Katz

I collaborate frequently with legal counsels, both internal and external. A firm understanding of the laws and regulations is critical to ensuring that my recommendations are appropriate and actionable. The education from an elite institution will also help elevate my career to the next level.
Lingyi Katz (MLS '24), Executive Director, Sr. Lead Business Execution Consultant at Wells Fargo

Sample Curriculum

All students start with the core curriculum and then complete electives from this list.  

  • Business Law for Non-Lawyers (core curriculum)*
  • Contract Analysis*
  • Law for Entrepreneurs*
  • Compliance Law*
  • Privacy, Data and Cybersecurity Law*
  • Internet and Media Law in the Age of AI*
  • Intellectual Property:  Copyrights and Trademarks*
  • Silicon Valley Law
  • VC and Startup
  • Mergers and Acquisitions
  • Negotiation Theory and Practice
  • Entrepreneurship and Venture Initiation
  • Financial Institution Compliance
  • Current Issues FCC
  • Securities Regulation
  • Real Estate Transactions
  • Real Estate Finance
  • Taxation of Business Enterprises
  • U.S. International Taxation
  • Corporate Financial Distress: Risks and Opportunities

* available online

This list is offered as an example, with over 200 courses available. The exact list of courses that will satisfy each specialization will vary from year to year.

 

How will the Master of Legal Studies help you?

Josh Brackett

What I have liked about the UCLA program is of course the world-class faculty but also the...M.L.S. student base [which] has been diverse across age, background, experience, and industry. That can be a really good asset in education.
Josh Brackett (MLS '23), Co-Founder at Groupfully and Sinousia

 

Ariana Diverio

This program has already helped me tremendously. I am in a better educated position to advise on the best pathway with clients and I am better able to interact with counsel. I am already a better asset to my team and my clients.
Ariana Diverio (MLS '23), Co-Founder & Managing Partner at B. Partners

 

Programs and Centers

Connect with UCLA Law’s leading centers and programs to gain real-world experience and expand your professional network.

Centers of Excellence

Lowell Milken Institute for Business Law and Policy

Focusing on entrepreneurship and practical business law training, LMI creates outstanding leaders in law and business.

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Centers of Excellence

Ziman Center for Real Estate

This center advances thought leadership through research, educational opportunities and professional forums.

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Centers of Excellence

Center for Law & Economics

With a foundational approach, this center examines how economic concepts can help us understand and improve our laws.

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