Online Master of Legal Studies – Construction Law Emphasis

Arizona State University’s online Master of Legal Studies with an emphasis in construction law introduces you to the legal foundations of the construction industry. You’ll gain practical knowledge of contracts, regulations, site conditions and sustainable issues, all tailored for non-lawyer professionals.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 08/21/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered

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Learn to navigate the legal complexities of the construction industry

This program explores how legal principles shape the planning, development and execution of construction projects. You’ll explore construction law from the perspectives of project managers, contractors, architects and owners.

Coursework covers general Master of Legal Studies topics with electives focused on construction contracts, contractor and subcontractor relationships, site conditions and environmental considerations. You’ll also study regulations governing permits, safety, compliance and sustainability in construction.

An understanding of the legal landscape will allow you to manage risk, avoid disputes and ensure projects run smoothly from contract to completion. 

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

In this program, you’ll learn how to:

  • Address payment issues, project delays and tort liability.
  • Fulfill professional responsibilities, including ethical conduct and insurance requirements.
  • Manage construction contracts and legal agreements.
  • Navigate zoning, permitting, safety and environmental regulations.
  • Resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration or litigation.

This program is ideal for professionals in construction, architecture, real estate and city planning who want to better understand legal requirements and protect their interests.

What is a degree emphasis? Is it the same as a concentration?

A degree emphasis is similar to a concentration, but there are key differences.

  • A concentration is a formalized selection of courses within a major. A concentration requires a minimum of 15 credit hours of which at least nine credit hours must be upper division. Your concentration appears on both your ASU diploma and your transcripts.
  • An emphasis is a selected topic area defined within the major. It’s typically 9–12 credit hours and doesn’t need to be officially declared. The emphasis will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.
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Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Please note your diploma will state the degree you earn: Master of Legal Studies. Your emphasis in construction law will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.

MLS and construction law courses

This program starts with an introduction to U.S. law, then moves into key legal topics relevant to the construction industry. Featured courses include:


The jobs you’ll be prepared for

This emphasis qualifies you to offer valuable guidance on the legal aspects of construction projects. This knowledge applies across the industry, where successful outcomes depend on regulatory compliance. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:

Experienced and committed educators

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law faculty has more than 300 combined years of experience. Hailing from across the country, they’re nationally recognized for their wealth of knowledge. Our world-class faculty provides comprehensive legal education in popular focus areas and addresses legal challenges on a global scale.

Experienced and committed educators

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law faculty has more than 300 combined years of experience. Hailing from across the country, they’re nationally recognized for their wealth of knowledge. Our world-class faculty provides comprehensive legal education in popular focus areas and addresses legal challenges on a global scale.

How to apply

Applicants to the Master of Legal Studies program must fulfill the requirements of the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.

U.S.-educated applicants can apply through our FastApp process, which streamlines the application process and may allow for an offer of conditional admission to the Master of Legal Studies program while the applicant continues to submit any additional requested documentation. Find more information about the FastApp process here.

Study at one of the best law schools in the country

The Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU is one of the top schools in the nation, providing personalized and practical legal education. Offering more than 250 unique courses, students can tailor their educational experiences to meet their unique interests. Our bar passage achievements and peer-reviewed U.S. News & World Report rankings highlight our dedication to preparing students for success.

#1


in Arizona for bar passage

7


specialty law programs ranked amongst the top 35 in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report

Top 20


best public law schools, according to U.S. News & World Report

#45


best law schools, according to U.S. News & World Report

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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