Online Master of Legal Studies – Law and Sustainability Emphasis
Arizona State University’s online Master of Legal Studies with an emphasis in law and sustainability prepares you to navigate complex regulations and address the challenges of balancing a growing population with the planet’s finite resources. With a strong foundation in law, you’ll graduate equipped to advance responsible business practices and drive environmental solutions across sectors.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Prepare for a career at the crossroads of law and sustainability
This program offers a broad understanding of the U.S. legal system and how it connects with other fields. You’ll build core expertise in legal concepts, analysis and writing you can apply to your current or future roles.
When you choose this emphasis, you’ll focus on the frameworks and policies that protect the environment and promote fair business practices. The curriculum examines the regulations that drive environmental protection, social responsibility and economic sustainability.
Sustainability law careers continue to grow in corporate settings and at all levels of government. You’ll graduate prepared to help organizations gain a competitive edge and make a positive impact while meeting their economic goals. Understanding how laws and regulations affect your industry can also set you apart from your peers.
The skills you’ll develop
- Climate change solutions
- Apply mitigation and adaptation strategies, including emissions reduction and carbon trading mechanisms.
- Corporate governance
- Embed sustainability goals and accountability into leadership structures and operations.
- Environmental compliance
- Help organizations meet permit conditions, reporting obligations and regulatory standards to avoid penalties.
- Environmental impact assessment
- Incorporate sustainability considerations into project planning and decision-making to reduce environmental harm.
- Social responsibility
- Advance labor rights, human rights and transparency across global supply chains.
- Sustainable business strategies
- Design strategies that align with legal requirements and environmental best practices to position organizations as responsible and future-focused.
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.”
Please note your diploma will state the degree you earn: Master of Legal Studies. Your emphasis in Indian gaming will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.
Law and sustainability master’s courses
This program includes two core courses that build foundational legal knowledge, followed by eight emphasis or elective courses. You’ll examine how law shapes climate, energy, water and environmental protection policy. Through this coursework, you’ll gain insight into legal frameworks, regulatory tools and the law’s role in advancing environmental solutions.
The jobs you’ll be prepared for
Environmental law careers span a wide range of industries and roles. You can pursue opportunities in sustainability management, alternative energy, waste solutions, green buildings, regulatory compliance and more. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Leading faculty for a top environmental law school
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.
Leading faculty for a top environmental law school
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.
