Online Master of Legal Studies – Legal Paraprofessional Emphasis
Considering the Arizona legal paraprofessional licensure exam? Arizona State University’s online Master of Legal Studies with a legal paraprofessional emphasis provides legal practitioners with the knowledge and curricular qualifications needed for exam eligibility. As a licensed legal paraprofessional, you’ll give legal advice, assist clients in permitted practice areas and even represent clients in court — all without needing a JD.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/19/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Prepare for a career as a legal paraprofessional
A legal paraprofessional performs limited legal actions without a full JD. Arizona certification is a requirement for this role, and this program fulfills the curricular requirements to take the Arizona legal paraprofessional licensure exam.
Your coursework in this program will reflect your chosen legal specialty. The limited practice areas included in this licensure are:
- Administrative law (as permitted by agencies)
- Civil law (limited jurisdiction)
- Criminal law (limited jurisdiction)
- Family law
- Juvenile law
Once licensed, you’ll be prepared to provide legal advice and assist clients in the permitted practice areas, including client representation in court.
Paralegal vs. legal paraprofessional: How the two compare
While legal paraprofessionals share specific legal roles with lawyers, paralegals act as legal assistants who support lawyers and law firms with research, administrative tasks, proofreading and other essential tasks. If you’re interested in becoming a paralegal, choosing the MLS program with an emphasis in your desired field is recommended.

Professional licensure and certification
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.

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 legal paraprofessional will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.
Legal paraprofessional emphasis courses
This one-year program is made up of a required course, foundational courses and emphasis courses. Courses include:
The jobs this MLS program prepares you for
This emphasis provides the courses and knowledge needed to be eligible to sit for the Arizona legal paraprofessional licensure exam. Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be equipped to become a:
Learn from top legal practitioners in their fields
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.
Learn from top legal practitioners in their fields
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 online 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. 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.