Master of Studies in Law Program

RWU Law’s innovative and versatile Master of Studies in Law program offers a practical, career-focused approach to the study of law that is designed to provide mid-career professionals with an understanding of legal doctrine and reasoning. It is a course of study that enhances their skills and marketability across a broad array of fields, including accounting, business, compliance, education, environmental protection, health care, information technology, law enforcement, media, real estate, and more.

Today’s economy requires a dynamic grasp of shifting legal and regulatory landscapes that most courses of study don’t even begin to satisfy. By the end of the program, graduates are ready to:

• Identify, analyze, and apply basic concepts and rules of law, both in general and in their chosen areas of specialization • Spot potential legal issues and craft arguments and conclusions based on relevant facts and laws • Use legal skills and materials to independently research, analyze, and evaluate law-related matters in their field

Since the MSL Program launched in 2016, more than 21 students have entered, with 13 students earning the degree to date.

JORDAN SEABERRY L’20

Master of Studies in Law

For noted artist and community organizer Jordan Seaberry L’20—co-director of the nonprofit U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, and a RISD-educated painter—earning a Master of Studies in Law degree from RWU Law was a key that helped him weave together the two seemingly disparate threads of his professional life.

“In the trajectory of my own work, this really feels like the first time I have really blended the arts and social justice work together,” the Chicago native said. “Community organizers typically start at the legislative level. Being in the MSL program opened my eyes to other possibilities, like changing the law and pushing for social justice through the judiciary. Not just the legislature, not even just the executive branch—but really diversifying our tactics and building a movement that tugs on all three branches.”