Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs for 2024

Q: Can I do a Jurisprudence degree online?

Many reputable institutions offer online Master's in Jurisprudence programs, providing flexibility for working professionals and individuals from diverse backgrounds to access specialized legal education. Online programs often cover the same curriculum as on-campus counterparts, offering convenience without compromising educational quality.

Q: Is a Master’s in Jurisprudence worth it?

A Master's in Jurisprudence is worth it, depending on individual career goals. It offers valuable legal insights for non-lawyers in diverse sectors, enhancing expertise and career opportunities. However, aspiring lawyers seeking bar eligibility may find traditional law degrees more suitable. Researching program specifics and aligning with personal objectives is crucial.

Q: What is Jurisprudence and Policy?

“Jurisprudence” refers to the philosophy of law and is the legal interaction of the law within a variety of settings and specialties. The policy is defined as “a course or principle of action adopted or proposed by an organization or individual.” In the context of jurisprudence, policy is based upon the written law, its interpretation, ramifications, and fairness to all.

Q: Who can study Jurisprudence?

Jurisprudence studies are open to a broad range of individuals, including non-lawyers seeking a deeper understanding of legal principles. Professionals from various fields, such as business, healthcare, or creative industries, can pursue a Master's in Jurisprudence to gain specialized legal knowledge relevant to their respective industries without intending to practice law.

Q: Where to study Jurisprudence?

Many educational institutions in the United States provide Jurisprudence programs. Individuals interested in these programs can evaluate online and traditional learning options, considering program structures, areas of specialization, and industry applicability. Conducting thorough research on program specifics and matching them with personal career objectives is crucial when choosing the most appropriate path for studying Jurisprudence.

Q: Do employers accept a jurisprudence online master?

Many employers accept online Master's in Jurisprudence degrees. As online education becomes more prevalent and reputable institutions offer accredited programs, employers increasingly recognize the value of these degrees. However, the acceptance may also depend on the employer's specific requirements and the program's credibility.

Featured Online Programs

Best Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs

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When looking for online education programs, particularly a Master’s in Jurisprudence, it is essential to factor in the program’s flexibility, the quality and experience of teaching staff, the institution’s reputation, accreditation, affordability, and more. Based on these factors and more, OMC has drawn up this list of the best master’s in jurisprudence online programs in the United States:

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College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Texas A & M University JKW Administration Building, Suite 200, College Station, Texas 77843	$6,775	83%
#2 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306	$9,684	84%
#3 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052	$31,770	85%
#4 Samford University 800 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35229	$20,587	77%
#5 New York University 70 Washington Sq South, New York, New York 10012	$34,704	88%
#6 Pepperdine University 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California 90263	$36,200	89%
#7 Wake Forest University 1834 Wake Forest Road, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27106	$38,650	89%
#8 University of Southern California University Park, Los Angeles, California 90089	$47,880	92%
#9 Georgetown University 37th and O St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20057	$53,136	94%
#10 Washington University in St Louis One Brookings Drive, Saint Louis, Missouri 63130	$56,300	94%
#11 Emory University 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30322	$43,800	90%
#12 Tulane University of Louisiana 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118	$59,090	86%
#13 Seton Hall University 400 S Orange Ave, South Orange, New Jersey 07079	$24,372	72%
#14 University of Arkansas Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701	$7,752	68%
#15 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515	$7,935	54%
#16 Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104	$36,234	71%
#17 Hamline University 1536 Hewitt Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104	$11,570	65%
#18 Trinity International University 9010 SW 137th Ave, Suite #101, Miami, Florida 33186	$12,960	NA
#19 Arizona State University 1475 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257	$6,516	24%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Understanding Master of Jurisprudence Programs

Jurisprudence is the legal interaction of the law within various settings and specialties. The Master’s in Jurisprudence online program is designed for students to gain legal analytical, communication, and critical thinking abilities, along with a deep understanding of legal practices, laws, interpretations, and applications of law, legal analysis, and knowledge of the American legal system.

Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) degrees are intended for non-lawyer professionals who want to learn about the law. These degrees emphasize practical skills training in various legal-related sectors for students looking to further their careers or keep up with evolving regulatory needs. Typically, practicing lawyers and skilled professionals teach the courses.

Usually, the Master of Jurisprudence degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework. Specialized concentrations are available for more targeted studies, catering to a wide range of interests and work settings.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master of Jurisprudence Programs

The Master of Jurisprudence allows students to tailor their learning experience to their professional objectives and personal interests. Contracts, legal procedures, workplace law, legal writing, negligence, liability, and business law principles are all covered in the curriculum. Depending on the degree program and chosen specialization, the following courses could be available to students enrolled in a master’s in jurisprudence program:

Drafting Business Documents: This course sharpens skills essential for legal professionals. Participants learn the intricacies of creating precise and effective legal documents, emphasizing clarity and compliance. This course equips students with valuable expertise in drafting contracts, agreements, and other business-related legal documents.
Law and Entrepreneurship: This course explores the intersection of legal principles and entrepreneurial endeavors. Students gain insights into legal frameworks shaping business ventures, risk management, and regulatory compliance. This course equips participants with the knowledge to navigate legal complexities in entrepreneurial ventures.
Business and Human Rights: The course explores the legal aspects of corporate responsibility and human rights. Participants examine the intersection of business practices and human rights, exploring ethical considerations, legal frameworks, and strategies for promoting human rights within a business context.
International Trade Law: This course explores the legal intricacies of global commerce. Participants explore international trade regulations, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the legal frameworks governing cross-border transactions. This course equips students with the expertise to navigate legal challenges in the dynamic landscape of international trade.
Intellectual Property Survey: This course comprehensively explores intellectual property law. Participants examine patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, gaining insights into legal protections and enforcement strategies. This course equips students to navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property rights.

Some of the common courses in a Master’s in Jurisprudence program may include:

Advising Privately Owned Businesses
Basic Income Tax
Managing People in Public and Nonprofit Agencies
Property Dispositions and Transactions
International Finance Law
Taxation of Partners and Partnerships
Business and Financial Literacy
International Business Transactions
Chinese Law
Comparative Corporate Governance
Employment Law
Secured Transactions
Business Organizations
Estate Planning
Law of Nonprofit Organizations
Japanese Law

At the end of a Master in Jurisprudence online degree, graduates would have developed skills and abilities, some of which are but not limited to:

undertake legal research, analysis, and communication essential to understanding and applying the law in various settings;
interpret and apply laws regulating business, the environment, international trade, or other specialized sectors;
demonstrate conflict-resolution skills, critical-thinking abilities, and a thirst for justice;
better understand how the law can affect businesses, employees, and markets;
draft legal documents to present in court or legal agreements between persons and entities; and
assist practicing lawyers and advocates through research, interpretation, and applying the correct law.

Master of Jurisprudence Degree Types

The Master of Jurisprudence degree is muddled in overlapping degree types. Specializations play a considerable role in determining which degree type best suits a particular career path. For example, students with an MJ in health law online have a competitive advantage over their peers in the healthcare industry. Students who complete this program gain a unique perspective on healthcare law, regulations, and policies and the ability to find work in the healthcare industry. However, there are predominantly two degree types common to Jurisprudence studies – the MS in Jurisprudence and the MPA Jurisprudence.

MS in Jurisprudence

The Master of Science in Jurisprudence or MS in Jurisprudence, often called the MSJ, is a technically oriented degree for non-lawyers to study law and legalities. This degree type has a fair amount of research and touches upon more pragmatic and scientific topics.

MPA Jurisprudence

A popular choice among students who want to study law is the Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in Jurisprudence. However, this degree is usually a combined MPA-JD program, enabling the student to take a sequence of courses leading to two simultaneous degrees called the Master of Public Affairs – Doctor of Jurisprudence.

Students must note that the Master of Jurisprudence is sometimes used as an alternative name for both Master of Laws and Master of Juridical Science. In conclusion, the M.Jur. is a broad degree, and it is therefore vital for prospective students to research which college offers the right course for their career choice.

Specializations in Master of Jurisprudence Programs

Specializations always lead to niche career paths and are excellent for those who want to narrow their study to specific areas within jurisprudence. Several colleges offer specializations and concentrations that allow for a tailor-made, flexible program. Students can either choose to remain focused on general legal studies or choose from a variety of specialization options such as:

Master of Jurisprudence in Health Law Online
Master of Jurisprudence in Corporate and Business Law
Master of Jurisprudence in Compliance and Risk Management

Other specializations/concentrations include:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Health & Hospital Law	This specialization centers on the legal facets of healthcare delivery, providing individuals with expertise to navigate the dynamic field of health law. It encompasses healthcare regulations, medical ethics, and legal frameworks governing health institutions.	Healthcare attorney, hospital administrator, compliance officer, and policy analyst.
Pharmaceutical & Medical Device Law & Compliance	Focusing on the healthcare industry’s legal dimensions, this specialization addresses regulations, compliance, and ethics related to pharmaceuticals and medical devices. It equips individuals to navigate the complex legal landscape in this specialized field.	Pharmaceutical attorney, medical device compliance specialist, regulatory affairs manager, healthcare consultant
Law and the Creative Industries	Concentrating on the intersection of law and creative endeavors, this specialization offers insights into legal aspects shaping the arts, media, and entertainment industries. It prepares individuals for legal roles within creative sectors, covering intellectual property, contracts, and regulatory frameworks.	Entertainment lawyer, intellectual property attorney, and arts administrator.
Privacy Law & Cyber Security	Exploring the legal aspects of privacy and cybersecurity, this specialization covers regulations, data protection, and strategies for addressing cyber threats. It provides expertise to navigate the intricate legal landscape in the evolving digital era.	Privacy attorney, cybersecurity analyst, data protection officer, and information security manager.
Financial Services Compliance	This specialization addresses the legal intricacies of financial regulations, encompassing compliance frameworks, risk management, and ethical considerations within the financial industry. It equips individuals to navigate the complex legal landscape in financial services and compliance roles.	Compliance officer, risk management analyst, financial regulatory consultant, and compliance auditor.

Timeline For Graduating From Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs

Online Master of Jurisprudence programs can take one to three years to complete. Most online programs support working professionals, allowing students to learn on their own time. Part-time completion of the program is generally possible in two years. Students can work at their own speed and finish the degree in as much as five years.

Accelerated Jurisprudence Master’s Programs

Accelerated Jurisprudence Master’s Programs offer a streamlined path for students to gain specialized legal knowledge swiftly. Benefiting those seeking faster entry into legal professions, these programs demand thorough research into universities, ensuring alignment with individual goals and program structures. Students can seize opportunities for rapid professional advancement by selecting reputable institutions catering to their legal interests and career aspirations.

Admission Requirements for Online Master of Jurisprudence Programs

The process of applying for a Master’s in Jurisprudence is relatively straightforward. As with most other graduate-level programs, universities typically tend to have the following admission requirements:

Completed Application Form with Application Fee
A Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 and above
Official Academic Transcripts
A Professional Resume
A Statement of Purpose
Two References/Recommendations
Proof of English Language Proficiency (if English was not the primary language in prior studies, especially for international students)

Master’s in Jurisprudence Online No GRE Programs

In most cases, applicants to a Master’s in Jurisprudence do not have to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Law School Admission Test (LSAT). However, it is common for schools to ask for a GRE score should the Grade Point Average (GPA) be lower than required. Here are some examples of universities that offer masters in jurisprudence no GRE online:

University of Washington¹
Stetson University ²

Accreditation for Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs

An online Master’s in Jurisprudence, like all master’s degrees, must be accredited for the degree to be valuable and considered by the job market. Accreditation agencies establish standards for schools to adhere to and ensure they are met and maintained throughout the accreditation process. While some colleges have fully accredited programs (programmatic accreditation), most are regionally accredited, which is an equally valid option. In the United States, regional accreditation agencies include:

New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ³
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)⁴
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ⁵
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ⁶
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ⁷
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) ⁸

The American Bar Association (ABA) ⁹is usually the accrediting authority for law-related programs and law schools.

When applying for an online Master’s in Jurisprudence, prospective students should preferably always look for accredited universities or programs. Our Accreditation Guide contains more information on accreditation.

Free Jurisprudence Courses

While it is best to earn a master’s degree in Jurisprudence from a university that is accredited and of some repute, students who are pressed for time or who want to learn the subject out of interest or wish to supplement their master’s degree with additional courses (to gain further knowledge), could look for free content and courses that are available online. However, one must remember that these courses do not culminate in a master’s degree, although some offer certificate courses that may be of value in the job market. Here are a few resources for free online courses in Jurisprudence:

Course	Description	Provided by
Diploma in Legal Studies¹⁰	This course offers simple definitions and explanations of essential legal concepts, diverse law types, and the law creation process. The indispensable legal system in any society ensures citizen protection and rights preservation. Gaining this knowledge is vital for a well-rounded comprehension of life.	Alison
How to Become an International Arbitrator ¹¹	In this course, participants will acquire the skills necessary to initiate a successful career as an arbitrator. Developing an awareness of current trends and issues in international arbitration, participants will glean valuable insights from field experts. Engaging in tasks resembling real-life scenarios will foster practical skills applicable to their professional practice.	Future Learn
International Humanitarian Law ¹²	The course provides crucial theoretical and practical knowledge for students, researchers, and academics specializing in International Humanitarian Law. It also benefits professionals, including NGO members engaged in armed conflict or even armed forces members seeking specialized insights.	edX

Note: Some courses mentioned on these sites may be free, while others may demand a small fee. As policies and offers keep changing periodically, students are advised to check for the latest ones that suit their needs.

How to Pay for Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs

An online Master’s in Jurisprudence can be as expensive as other master’s programs. External funding will help offset the high cost of graduate school and related educational expenses, which is why graduate students should think about and explore the following funding options when applying to a university school:

Scholarships

Scholarships are frequently the first and best alternative for students to support their additional education because they are based on academic success, community service, cultural heritage, religious affiliation, etc. Scholarships might be merit-based, privately provided, alumnae-funded, or awarded by cultural, religious, or commercial organizations. (Note: To prevent being defrauded online, read about Scholarship Scams.

Grants

In addition to tuition, grants are frequently available to pay educational expenses such as study materials, books, stationery, travel, and lodging. Grants, unlike scholarships, are typically need-based and are not provided based on academic performance.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships and Graduate Research Assistantships are two typical types of assistantships offered by numerous universities. An assistantship provides students with a stipend, which can help cover some education costs.

Student Loans

Students can qualify for federal, bank, and private loans, all needing interest payments. However, it should be noted that late or deferred payments will almost certainly result in higher student debt.

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, can be used to determine whether a student is eligible for financial aid. FAFSA-related information can be found here.

Scholarships for Master’s in Jurisprudence Online Students

Scholarships for online Master’s in Jurisprudence programs can significantly alleviate financial burdens. Students must diligently research institutions that offer funding, considering eligibility criteria and application deadlines. These scholarships ease financial constraints and enhance the accessibility of advanced legal education, empowering students to pursue their academic goals and contribute effectively to their chosen fields.

Careers and Salary Outlook For Master of Jurisprudence Online Graduates

The abilities of a jurisprudence graduate can benefit a wide array of organizations and individuals. As a result, program graduates may pursue careers as corporate attorneys, civil rights lawyers, contract lawyers, regulatory and ethics lawyers, or international business lawyers. Individuals can even form their own law firms, specializing in copyright infringement, bankruptcy, tax law, or any other field of law, and even provide advice to educational institutions and healthcare providers. Some jurisprudence jobs usually held by MJ graduates include but are not limited to:

Risk Managers
Healthcare Administrators
Supervisors
Pharmaceutical Financial Analysts
Clinical Operations Directors
Nurse Managers
Compliance Officers
Consultants
Lobbyists
Quality Assurance Managers
Patent/Trademark Assistants
Contract Analysts

Here are a few more careers and their description:

Occupation	Median Annual Salary	Job Growth	Job Description
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators ¹³	$64,030	5% (faster than average)	Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators foster negotiation and dialogue to resolve disputes outside the court system by facilitating communication between conflicting parties.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants ¹⁴	$59,200	4% (as fast as average)	Paralegals and legal assistants undertake a range of responsibilities to assist lawyers, such as managing and arranging files, carrying out legal research, and preparing documents.
Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators ¹⁵	$72,040	-3% (decline)	Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators assess insurance claims to determine whether an insurance company is liable to pay and, if so, the appropriate amount.
Lawyers ¹⁶	$135,740	8% (faster than average)	Lawyers are legal professionals who provide expert advice, represent clients in court, and handle legal matters. They interpret laws, analyze cases, and advocate for their clients’ interests.

Certifications and Licensure For Master of Jurisprudence Online Students

Certifications always provide extra and weighted credentials to working professionals. Graduates of a Master in Jurisprudence can receive recognition for their specialized practice by earning certification in a specialty field of law while certifying competency, experience, and proficiency.

The American Bar Association (ABA)⁷is a powerful and recognized independent body that accredits and offers four specialization areas for attorneys and law graduates. There are state-level specialty board certification programs or national specialty board certification programs to choose from. The Lawyer Legion¹⁷provides exact and fuller information on certifications.

Here are a few other certifications that online degree in jurisprudence students can pursue:

Paralegal Certification¹⁸
Paralegal certification validates the competence of professionals in legal support roles, improving career opportunities by showcasing expertise in various areas of law. The nationally recognized Paralegal CORE Competency Exam® (PCCE®) and Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam® (PACE®) offered by NFPA demonstrate a paralegal’s skills and dedication to excellence.
Accredited Legal Professional (ALP) certification ¹⁹
Accredited Legal Professional (ALP) certification is earned by passing a comprehensive three-part examination, demonstrating commitment and capability to thrive in the dynamic legal landscape. The ALP exam evaluates proficiency in business communication, office management, technology, legal terminology, complexities, supporting documents, and adherence to ethical codes in a law office setting.
Professional Legal Secretary (PLS) certification ²⁰
PLS® and/or CLP® designations are awarded to lawyer’s assistants who aim to be acknowledged for their exceptional skills. Certification is obtained by passing a rigorous one-day, four-part examination, highlighting professionalism and a solid commitment to excellence. Personal determination and motivation are crucial in attaining this prestigious accomplishment.

As far as licensing goes, most sectors do not require a specific license for a Master of Jurisprudence graduate to work or practice, usually because they do not present themselves in court as attorneys. However, depending on the state one resides in and works in, sensitive sectors may require specific licensure from a Compliance Certification Board.

Additional Resources For Master of Jurisprudence Online Students

The law, especially its various interpretations under varying circumstances, tends to get complex and cumbersome. Therefore, Jurisprudence students and working professionals will do well to connect with others in the field, compare past notes, examine argued or disposed of cases, and seek advice from stalwarts and seniors. Here are a few associations and resources to get started:

American Bar Association (ABA)⁷
The American Bar Association (ABA) strives to promote the best quality legal education, works towards eliminating bias and enhancing diversity, and seeks to increase public understanding of and respect for the rule of law, among other related objectives. The site offers its members news, seminars, information on regulations, and more.
Lawyer Legion ²¹
Lawyer Legion provides a wealth of information for lawyers and law practitioners and provides insights, legal resources, and services.
New York University Law Library ²²
The New York University Law Library provides students and working professionals with primary and secondary sources for legal research, legal treatises, encyclopedias, law journals and periodicals, and dictionaries and reference tools.
Library of Congress²³
The Library of Congress hosts collections of law & legislation, researcher resources, news & events, and legal reports, all of which are a treasure trove for Master of Jurisprudence students and graduates.

FAQs About Master of Jurisprudence Online Programs

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What is a Master of Jurisprudence degree?

A Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) degree is a postgraduate program for non-lawyers seeking an in-depth understanding of legal principles. Tailored to professionals in various fields, it covers specialized legal topics without bar exam eligibility. It equips individuals with valuable legal knowledge applicable to their specific industries or areas of interest.