Online Master of Legal Studies – Sports Law Emphasis

Arizona State University’s online Master of Legal Studies with an emphasis in sports law teaches you to navigate legal, ethical and business issues in the sports industry. You’ll learn how regulation, revenue and branding shape sports both nationally and globally. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for roles in sports, entertainment and related fields.

Learn more

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

Have questions about the Sports Law (MLS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

* Indicates a required field

Tackle legal, ethical and business issues in the sports industry

The sports industry is a multibillion-dollar enterprise in the U.S. with the potential to exceed a trillion dollars globally. As the industry rapidly grows, so does a demand for professionals who understand the various challenges in this field.

This program explores topics such as antitrust and labor concerns, league and player regulations, intellectual property rights and contract negotiations. You’ll examine the forces influencing professional and amateur athletics and gain insights into sports branding, analytics and business operations.

The curriculum offers various electives, allowing you to tailor your studies to your career goals. You’ll also have the option to participate in a special project or externship related to your interests.

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

While an emphasis and concentration are similar, there are key differences.

  • A concentration is a formalized selection of courses within a major requiring a minimum of 15 credit hours; at least nine must be upper division. The concentration appears on your ASU diploma and transcripts.
  • An emphasis is a selected topic area defined within the major that’s typically 9–12 credit hours and doesn’t need to be officially declared.
cardImage

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 sports law will not appear on your diploma or transcripts.

Sports law degree courses

This program blends a strong foundation in legal studies with business and athletics expertise. You’ll learn from faculty experienced in the legal and sports arenas with opportunities for special projects and externships. Program courses include:


What can I do with a sports law degree?

With this degree, you can pursue career paths in professional and collegiate athletics and within the broader entertainment sector. You may also consider roles working directly with athletes and venues such as:

Learn from nationally recognized legal scholars in sports 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.

Learn from nationally recognized legal scholars in sports 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 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.

You might also be interested in

Conflict Resolution (MLS)

Graduate

Conflict Resolution (MLS)


Starts 08/21/2025

Learn more
Contract Management (MLS)

Graduate

Contract Management (MLS)


Starts 08/21/2025

Learn more
Indian Gaming (MLS)

Graduate

Indian Gaming (MLS)


Starts 08/21/2025

Learn more
Legal Studies (MLS)

Graduate

Legal Studies (MLS)


Starts 08/21/2025

Learn more