What Is a Masters in Law at Regent University?

Regent University's Master of Laws (LL.M.) program is designed for professionals seeking specialized legal knowledge without completing a full Juris Doctor degree. The program combines rigorous academic training with Christian principles, offering a unique educational approach in the legal field.

Students can choose from several concentrations including American Legal Studies, Human Rights, and International Law. The curriculum is structured to develop critical thinking skills while providing practical knowledge applicable to various legal environments. With both on-campus and online options available, the program accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining other commitments.

How the Program Works

Regent University's Masters in Law requires completion of 30 credit hours, typically taking 12-24 months depending on full-time or part-time enrollment. The program structure includes core courses establishing fundamental legal principles and electives allowing students to customize their education to specific career goals.

The online format utilizes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning methods, giving students flexibility while maintaining engagement with professors and peers. On-campus students benefit from face-to-face interaction and access to Regent's law library and other resources. Both formats include opportunities for networking, mentorship, and practical experience through internships or research projects.

Admission requirements typically include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, competitive GPA, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. International students may need to demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests.

Provider Comparison: Law Masters Programs

When comparing Regent University's Masters in Law to other programs, several factors stand out. Regent University emphasizes integration of faith and learning, distinguishing it from secular institutions. Their faculty includes experienced legal practitioners who bring real-world insights to the classroom.

Program Comparison Table:

InstitutionProgram LengthDelivery FormatFaith Integration
Regent University12-24 monthsOnline/On-campusYes
Liberty University12-36 monthsOnline/On-campusYes
Georgetown Law12-24 monthsOn-campusNo
Harvard Law School12 monthsOn-campusNo

While institutions like Georgetown and Harvard offer prestigious programs with extensive alumni networks, Regent provides a more intimate learning environment with smaller class sizes and personalized attention. Liberty University offers similar faith-based education but differs in program structure and specializations.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits of Regent's Masters in Law:

The program offers significant advantages including specialized knowledge that can enhance career opportunities in legal adjacent fields. The faith-based approach provides ethical frameworks often absent in traditional legal education. Flexible learning options accommodate working professionals, and the supportive community creates networking opportunities with like-minded individuals.

Potential Drawbacks:

Prospective students should consider that a Masters in Law does not qualify graduates to practice law without a JD degree and bar admission. The faith-based perspective may not align with all students' preferences. Additionally, while Regent has strong regional recognition, some employers may prioritize graduates from institutions with longer-established legal programs like those offered by Yale or Stanford.

Tuition and Investment Considerations

Investing in a Masters in Law requires careful financial planning. Regent University's tuition rates are competitive compared to many private institutions, with different rates for on-campus and online programs. The total investment includes tuition, books, technology fees, and potentially housing for on-campus students.

Many students leverage various funding sources to finance their education. Regent offers merit-based scholarships, graduate assistantships, and payment plans. Federal student loans are available for eligible students, though careful consideration of post-graduation debt is important.

When evaluating return on investment, consider both tangible benefits (potential salary increases, job opportunities) and intangible benefits (knowledge gained, network developed, personal satisfaction). While some legal employers offer tuition assistance programs, students should research industry-specific opportunities in their intended field.

Conclusion

A Masters in Law from Regent University offers a distinctive approach to advanced legal education by integrating faith principles with rigorous academic training. The program's flexibility accommodates diverse student needs while providing specialized knowledge that can enhance career trajectories in various legal and non-legal fields. While not a substitute for a JD for those wishing to practice law, it serves as valuable supplementary education for professionals working adjacent to legal fields or seeking to deepen their understanding of specific legal domains. Before applying, carefully evaluate your career goals, financial considerations, and whether the program's unique perspective aligns with your personal and professional values. With the right alignment, this degree can be a strategic step toward achieving your professional aspirations in the legal field.

Citations

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.