M.L.S. Specialization: Criminal Law


Available online and/or on-campus for Part-Time Students. On-campus classes required for Full-Time Students.

Successfully Navigate the Criminal Justice System

UCLA Law’s Master of Legal Studies in Criminal Law is the newest specialization in the program. It is designed for professionals working in criminal justice at the local, state, and federal courts or agencies.

Sharpen your Understanding of the Criminal Justice System

Gain a sophisticated understanding of how the criminal justice system is crafted, implemented, and enforced through laws, regulations, court decisions, and law enforcement agencies. This specialization empowers you to navigate the complexities of the government landscape, preparing you to make a significant impact.

Eduardo Miranda (MLS '23)

I am in an office mixed with investigators and attorneys, and I wanted to better understand how the attorneys think when preparing for trial. I highly recommend this program to anyone that would like to be challenged, learn how the law applies to your career, develop analytical skills, and understand how lawyers think.
Eduardo Miranda (MLS '23), District Attorney Investigator at County of Ventura

Sample Curriculum
  • Criminal Law
  • Criminal Procedure:  Investigations
  • Evidence
  • Criminal Procedure:  Adjudication
  • Criminal Procedure:  Habeas Corpus
  • National Security Law
  • International Criminal Law
  • Federal White Collar Crime
  • Current Topics in Criminal Law
  • Courts of Today
  • Sentencing Law and Policy
  • Business Crime
  • Prison Law and Policy

 

This list is offered as an example, with over 200 courses available. The exact list of courses that will satisfy each specialization will vary from year to year.

 

How will the Master of Legal Studies help you?

Lucy Ortiz (MLS '24)

I want to grow professionally...to learn from all the professors and meet other students with similar interests. This is the perfect program for me.
Lucy Ortiz (MLS '24), Industrial Security Analyst at Northrop Grumman

 

Programs and Centers

Connect with UCLA Law’s leading centers and programs to gain real-world experience and expand your professional network.

Centers of Excellence

Criminal Justice Program

CJP is designed to help students build a foundation in criminal law while gaining meaningful experience.

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Centers of Excellence

Transnational Program on Criminal Justice

Performing scholarship on international and transnational criminal justice systems.

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Centers of Excellence

Prison Law and Policy Program

Taking an expansive view of the criminal legal system and aiming to deepen our understanding of the role the law plays in shaping all aspects of the carceral experience.

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