Business Law Degrees
Many businesses rely on informed legal professionals to help ensure compliance with government regulations. A master's in business law cultivates advanced knowledge of common legal issues that businesses face. This business law degree typically appeals to juris doctor (JD) graduates seeking specialization and career advancement.
Business law degree graduates can pursue lucrative careers in law or business, with many working as lawyers, law professors, compliance officers, and revenue agents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), lawyers earn a median annual salary of $122,960. The BLS projects jobs for lawyers will grow 4% between 2019-2029.
Explore Programs From Boston University
Online Master's in Business Law Programs
#1 Online Master’s In Business Law Degree Programs
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Alabama delivers graduate-level programs for online learners throughout the country. With 43 online degrees, including 23 online master's options, the public institution educates students throughout the country. The school delivers an LLM program in business transactions for graduate degree-seekers. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Core classes help learners develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced business law classes. Experiential learning opportunities allow students to apply theoretical industry knowledge in practical contexts. Most graduate degree-seekers can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study. Prospective learners can contact the institution for specific application details.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $10,780 for in-state students and $30,250 for graduate students residing outside of Alabama. Enrollees at the accredited school can qualify for federal financial aid programs. According to the institution, 79% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Business Law Degree Programs
Western Michigan University
- Kalamazoo, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Western Michigan University offers an online business law program for distance learners. The Michigan institution reports that 4,656 students take online classes. Degree-seekers can earn their LLM in corporate law and finance online from the institution. Employers value the rigorous education learners receive from the accredited program. The program provides advanced training for business law careers. The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty.
The program's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. Graduate students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps learners complete a master's degree with less debt. The institution reports a 57% graduation rate for its programs.
Western Michigan University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,974
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 9
Graduate Tuition: $16,360/year in-state; $30,432/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,448
Average Net Price: $17,028
Western Michigan University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Why Get a Degree in Business Law?
Business law degrees offer many potential personal and professional benefits, including career advancement, specialization, salary increases, and networking opportunities. According to PayScale salary data from January 2021, business law master's graduates earn an average annual salary of $85,380.
Online business law degrees can increase graduates' expertise and candidacy for various specialized careers, including corporate counsel, management analyst, business attorney, and law professor. Earning a business law degree online often permits flexible attendance and pacing options, allowing enrollees to advance their education while continuing their jobs. Online degrees may also cost less per credit.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Master's in Business Law Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
How Much Does a Business Law Degree Cost?
According to the College Board's Trends in College Pricing report from 2020, higher education tuition averages $10,560 annually. At this rate, a two-year master's degree can easily cost at least $21,000. However, tuition prices vary widely by school and location. According to the same College Board report, public universities often cost a fraction of what private institutions do.
Prospective students can usually save on tuition by attending an in-state public university. Out-of-state students at public institutions often pay several times the amount that in-state students pay at the same schools. However, learners who pursue a master's in business law online may qualify for in-state tuition rates, even at out-of-state schools. Online students also save money by avoiding university fees, residency or relocation costs, and commuting expenses.
College prices vary widely by state, with states like Vermont and South Dakota charging 3-5 times higher tuition rates than states like California and New Mexico. Prospective enrollees should consider location and online tuition discounts to determine the most affordable way to earn a master's degree in business law.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Business Law Majors Make?
Business law master's graduates usually possess advanced research, analysis, and communication skills. These individuals often earn salaries far above average.
Business law master's graduates sometimes begin as paralegalsor arbitrators, who often earn $52,000-$64,000. Other common career paths for business law master's degree graduates include revenue agent and compliance officer, which pay salaries that range from $55,000-$70,000. Financial analysts and management analysts often earn $82,000-$85,000.
Earning professional certifications or additional graduate degrees can help business law graduates qualify for specialized roles. Candidates with a JD or Ph.D. may find lucrative work as business attorneys or postsecondary business teachers.
Courses in Business Law
Business law master's degrees typically require at least 30 credits of advanced coursework in legal writing and analysis, corporate law, and business organizations. Enrollees learn how to research, analyze, write about, and present on complex business law topics.
Common specializations include compliance, taxation, and employment law. Some programs offer industry-specific concentrations such as real estate law or entertainment law. Many master's programs require a faculty-supervised capstone thesis or research project. See below for common courses in master's business law programs.
Introduction to Legal Analysis
This course explores the American legal system and highlights key theories and best practices for legal research and writing. Enrollees analyze case studies involving various briefs, court opinions, and laws. This required course serves as a prerequisite for many other business law master's courses.Legal Research Methods
Business law master's programs always feature coursework in research methods. Students learn foundational skills in topic selection, legal analysis, persuasive writing, and presentation. Legal research methods courses may help students prepare to research and write a master's thesis.Business Law and Ethics
This core course explores key ethical and legal issues surrounding limited liability, partnership, agency, and contract law. Participants may also learn about communications law, employment law, international business law, and commercial transactions law. Learners discuss business values and norms, including approaches to profit and social responsibility in business.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Master's in Business Law Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Certifications and Licensure for Business Law
A business law master's degree meets or exceeds degree requirements for many business and financial occupations. However, graduates may benefit from earning additional professional certifications demonstrating expertise in particular roles, fields, or industries. See below for three credentials that can prove valuable to business law master's graduates.
The Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics awards this certification to aspiring compliance professionals who pass a certification exam. To take the exam, candidates need at least 1,500 hours of recent compliance experience or a recent certification from a Compliance Certification Board-approved program.
To earn this credential, candidates need 4,000 hours of professional work experience or education. Applicants must also complete a CFA program, pass certification exams, and submit 2-3 reference letters. This credential may benefit financial analysts, personal financial advisors, investment professionals, and financial managers.
This credential serves revenue and compliance officers who work in the healthcare industry. Candidates must pass a certification exam and need at least three years of related professional experience. A bachelor's degree can substitute for two years of professional experience, and an associate degree can count for one year of experience.
Scholarships for Business Law
Master's in business law enrollees may qualify for scholarships based on field of study, financial need, academic merit, or belonging to a particular group. Professional organizations, companies, community organizations, and government organizations may offer these awards, which vary in amount.
Many of the most affordable legal studies master's programs offer financial aid to eligible students. Additionally, learners pursuing a master's in legal studies can apply for scholarships from schools, nonprofits, and law firms.
See below for some scholarships available to learners in legal studies master's programs.
Scholarships for Business Law
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Eula Mae Jett Scholarship Plan |
$1,000-$2,000 |
This scholarship supports California residents seeking career reentry or transition by pursuing degrees in legal studies. Professionals and students with a JD do not qualify. |
Gloria Barron Wilderness Society Scholarship |
$15,000 |
Graduate students seeking wilderness protection careers and pursuing law, natural resource management, or policy degrees may apply. Eligible candidates attend accredited schools in North America. |
Price Benowitz Social Justice Scholarship |
$1,000 |
This scholarship is open to students currently enrolled in an accredited community college, undergraduate program, or graduate program in the United States. Application requirements include an updated resume, a current transcript, and a 750-word essay. |
FAQ's About Business Law Programs
Do business attorneys make good money?
Attorneys earn a median annual salary of $122,960, which is more than double the median salary for all occupations.
What can you do with a master's in business law?
Master's in business law graduates often work as compliance officers, financial analysts, and business attorneys.
How long does it take to get a business law degree?
Master's programs usually take at least two years to complete. However, learners enrolled in accelerated programs can often finish sooner.
What is the difference between business law and corporate law?
Business law focuses on legal issues involving company creation and acquisition. Corporate law focuses on sales and distribution-related legal concerns.
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