Online Master of Legal Studies – Land Use and Property Development Law Emphasis
Pursue an online Master of Legal Studies with an emphasis in land use and property development law from Arizona State University. You’ll build a strong foundation in the legal framework that guides how land is used, developed and transferred. This expertise prepares you for impactful careers that ensure compliance with government regulations without a JD.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/12/2026
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Gain legal expertise for careers in land use, development and real estate law
As property development becomes more complex, legal considerations are as vital as economic, social and environmental factors; Yet few professionals have specialized expertise. This program provides the legal and regulatory knowledge to navigate zoning, development and real estate transactions.
Whether you work in or plan to pursue roles in community development, real estate development or urban planning, you’ll be prepared to help projects meet legal requirements and support sustainable growth. Your expertise can also protect environmental health and drive financial efficiencies that strengthen communities.
The skills you’ll develop
This MLS introduces you to legal concepts, analysis and writing. The real estate development law emphasis builds on that knowledge to equip you to guide land use decisions, focusing on community, sustainability and compliance. You’ll gain skills in areas such as:
- Affordable housing and community development
- Explore policies, tax incentives and legal tools to support real estate development.
- Development approvals and permitting
- Understand entitlement procedures, environmental impact reviews and the permitting process to ensure compliance and project progress.
- Real estate finance and investment regulations
- Learn the legal aspects of real estate financing, including mortgages, liens and tax implications.
- Real estate transactions and contracts
- Gain insight into contracts, leases, purchase agreements and financing structures to reduce risk and ensure smooth transactions.
- Risk management and dispute resolution
- Study real estate conflicts and legal strategies to resolve issues and reduce liability.
- Zoning, variance and land use regulations
- Understand zoning laws, land use planning and the regulatory frameworks that shape property development.
What is a degree emphasis? Is it the same as a concentration?
A degree program’s emphasis is similar to a concentration, but there are key differences.
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.”
Note your diploma will state the degree you earn: Master of Legal Studies. Your emphasis in land use and property development law will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.
MLS and real estate law courses
This program builds familiarity with legal thought through two core courses. You’ll then choose eight elective and emphasis courses to deepen your knowledge of land use and property development law and explore your interests.
The jobs you’ll be prepared for
Over 20,000 local governments make land use decisions, and thousands of consulting firms advise public and private clients on development challenges. This program gives you the legal insight to support that work without earning a JD. You’ll be prepared for roles that guide land use, shape policy and support legally sound development across sectors. Potential career paths include:
Expertise from leading minds in land use and property development law
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.
Expertise from leading minds in land use and property development law
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 MLS program while the applicant continues to submit any additional requested documentation.
Learn more about the FastApp process.
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.
