Learn law and explore the foundations of justice

Choosing the right legal studies program for you

Knowing your career goals is paramount to choosing the right legal studies program. A single course could be helpful, or you may decide that a master's in legal studies (MLS) is best.

Learn about the various options available through edX to decide which path is ideal for you.

Courses

The legal studies courses available on edX cover a variety of subjects, including criminal law, business law, international law, human rights law, media law, and human resources law.

Both newcomers to law and legal professionals can benefit from these free, self-paced courses. Upon completion, you can purchase a certificate to include in your résumé.

Executive education programs

Working professionals can boost their knowledge of specific areas of law through 6-8 week Executive Education courses on edX. These courses aim to provide an in-depth understanding of a particular subject and improve management and leadership skills.

Degrees

Online legal studies degrees can help you launch a career in law or another field in which a legal education is beneficial, such as politics, journalism, or social work. Bachelor's programs teach fundamental knowledge and, depending on the program, can also prepare you for administrative or legal support roles.

Advanced degrees in legal studies and other areas of law can unlock new opportunities. A master of legal studies (MLS), for example, can further your knowledge of law and help you qualify for higher-level roles.

A juris doctor (JD) degree is required for aspiring attorneys and lawyers who will eventually take the bar examination in their state. Once licensed, some continue their education with a master of laws (LLM) degree, which offers a comprehensive education in a particular area of law. An LLM is also a way for international legal professionals to study U.S. or Canadian legal systems.

Jobs in law

Legal studies offer a myriad of professional opportunities. Read on to learn more about common career paths for students of law.

Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators

Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) professionals — a way for conflicting parties to resolve legal disputes without formal litigation. An ADR serves as a neutral third party in situations related to employment, insurance, real estate, divorce, and more.

• Required education: A bachelor's degree is not required, but expertise related to the ADR field (e.g., psychology for civil issues, business for commercial issues) is preferred. Depending on local law, additional education and certification may be required.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $71,540
• BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 6%

Paralegals and legal assistants

Paralegals and legal assistants typically work in offices for lawyers or legal firms. They research and organize case facts and corresponding laws, as well as draft and file legal reports with the appropriate courts, opposing counsel, or government agency.

While these legal professionals contribute significantly to a lawyer or firm's work, they are not licensed to practice law or give legal advice.

• Required education: An associate's degree or higher from a program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) is required. Only California requires certification by law, but firms in other states may prefer candidates who have earned certification from an educational institution or industry association.
• BLS median annual salary (2023): $60,970
• BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 1%

Judges and hearing officers

Judges are responsible for overseeing juries and deciding case outcomes in bench trials. Hearing officers oversee cases but do not make legal decisions; instead, they make recommendations to a judge.

• Required education: Hearing officers require a bachelor's degree or higher. Judges may need a JD degree from a law school accredited by the ABA. However, education requirements vary by location. Additional training or certification may be necessary.
• BLS median annual salary (2023): $132,950
• BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 3%

Lawyers

Lawyers may work for firms, companies, or as individuals in private practice. They may specialize in a particular area, such as environmental law, corporate law, tax law, or human rights law.

• Required education: JD degree from a law school accredited by the ABA and state licensure. Some states may offer alternative pathways to licensure.
• BLS median annual salary (2023): $145,760
• BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 5%

Court reporters

Court reporters, also known as certified shorthand reporters (CSRs), transcribe spoken dialogue during depositions, hearings, and other legal proceedings. They typically use shorthand techniques and a stenotype for speed and accuracy.

• Required education: An associate's degree or certificate from a court reporting program is required. In many locations, court reporters must also obtain licensure by passing exams administered by the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), National Verbatim Reporters Association (NVRA), or the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT).
• BLS median annual salary (2023): $63,940

• BLS projected annual job growth (2023–33): 2%

Learn law with edX

Get started on your legal career goals. Explore courses and degree programs on edX today.