M.L.S. Specialization: Environmental Law


Available on campus with some potential online classes for Part-Time and Full-Time Master of Legal Studies students.

Master Environmental Law at the #1 Ranked Program

UCLA Law's Master of Legal Studies in Environmental Law is the nation's leading program, offering a rigorous curriculum designed to address pressing environmental challenges.  Join a community of passionate students and distinguished faculty as you delve into critical areas like climate change, energy regulation, and environmental policy.

Shape the Future of Environmental Protection

UCLA Law's Environmental Law Specialization equips you with the legal expertise to make a difference.  Our program graduates go on to pursue successful careers in government agencies, environmental organizations, and private practice.

Wannie Park (MLS '22)

UCLA has an amazing reputation for environmental law, but they also have the Emmett Institute and other organizations that promote the different topics that we're studying. Being a professional, the ability to network with them and the fact that they are so accessible has been so fantastic.
Wannie Park (MLS '22), Senior Vice President Corporate & Business Development at Bidgely

Sample Curriculum:

All students start with the core curriculum and then complete electives from this list.  

  • Environmental Law and Policy
  • Land Use
  • Energy Law and Regulation
  • Public Natural Resources Law and Policy
  • Climate Change and Energy Law
  • Topics in California Environmental Law
  • Comparative Environmental Law
  • Comparative Environmental Law
  • International Environmental Law and Policy
  • Water Law
  • Human Rights and Protection of the Environment
  • Contract Analysis*
  • Regulatory Compliance*

* available online

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?

Andrew Sandahl (MLS '23)

As a biologist working in the environmental consulting industry, I interact with environmental laws and regulations on a daily basis. The M.L.S. program at UCLA has not only increased my understanding of the laws I work with, but has also changed the way I think about legal issues as a whole. Learning to 'think like a lawyer' is undoubtedly one of the most valuable skills any professional could possess, and this has proved especially true for my work in the environmental field.
Andrew Sandahl (MLS '23), Biologist/Technical Writer at Rincon Consultants, Inc.

 

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

Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment

The Emmett Institute trains future leaders and develops solutions to the climate crisis and environmental justice challenges.

Learn More

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