International Business Law, M.L.S.

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Oklahoma

Program Overview

The Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) in International Business Law at the University of Oklahoma prepares business professionals to understand the legal and regulatory issues that shape international commerce. Offered entirely online through the OU College of Law, this 32-credit-hour graduate program is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge of international transactions, corporate regulations, financial systems, trade, and business disputes without pursuing a traditional law degree. The program can be completed in approximately 15 months, making it a practical option for working professionals seeking to expand their expertise while continuing their careers.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum combines foundational legal knowledge with specialized courses focused on international business operations. Students complete 32 credit hours through required courses and selected electives covering international law, corporate governance, financial transactions, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.

Initial Stage: Legal Foundations and International Law

Students begin with LSIB 5012 – Introduction to Legal Studies and LSIB 5002 – Sources of International Law-MLS. These courses introduce national and transnational legal systems, international organizations, treaties, and the legal frameworks that influence cross-border business. This foundation helps students understand how different legal systems affect commercial decisions and international business relationships.

Middle Stage: Corporate Law, Finance, and Regulatory Compliance

Students develop specialized knowledge through courses such as LSIB 5113 – Comparative Corporate Law, LSIB 5112 – International Payment Systems, LSIB 5122 – Combating International Corruption, LSIB 5123 – European Union Business and Competition Law, and LSIB 5132 – International Sanctions Regimes. These subjects explore corporate structures, international payments, competition rules, anti-corruption measures, and sanctions that may affect organizations operating across borders. Students learn to recognize legal and regulatory risks that can influence business strategy and international operations.

Advanced Stage: International Transactions and Dispute Resolution

The advanced curriculum includes LSIB 5133 – International Sales and other Business Transactions, LSIB 5143 – International Commercial and Investment Arbitration, and LSIB 5153 – International Business, Human Rights, and Corporate Responsibility. These courses examine cross-border sales, international investment, commercial disputes, corporate responsibilities, and human rights considerations. Students also select seven credit hours from approved electives, including International Trade and Investment, International Finance: Capital Markets, International Finance: Banking and Structured Finance, International Energy, and International Indigenous Peoples Law.

Focus Areas

The program emphasizes the legal knowledge needed to navigate international commerce and regulatory requirements. Key focus areas include:

International Business Law: Understanding the legal frameworks governing cross-border commercial activities and international business relationships.
Corporate Law and Governance: Examining corporate structures, comparative legal systems, and business responsibilities across jurisdictions.
International Finance: Exploring international payment systems, capital markets, banking, and structured finance.
Trade and Commercial Transactions: Studying international sales, investment, trade regulations, and cross-border business agreements.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management: Understanding anti-corruption measures, international sanctions, and competition law.
Dispute Resolution and Arbitration: Learning how international commercial and investment disputes are addressed through arbitration.
Human Rights and Corporate Responsibility: Examining how businesses manage human rights considerations and corporate responsibilities in international operations.

These focus areas help students connect legal principles with the practical challenges organizations face when operating across national borders.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop an understanding of international and transnational legal systems and the regulations governing global commerce. They learn to identify legal considerations in cross-border transactions, interpret international business rules, understand financial and corporate regulations, and recognize risks associated with sanctions, corruption, and commercial disputes. The program also prepares students to collaborate more effectively with attorneys, compliance teams, business leaders, and other professionals involved in international operations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The University of Oklahoma is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. However, the American Bar Association does not accredit or approve non-J.D. degrees such as the Master of Legal Studies. Students should therefore distinguish the university's institutional accreditation from program-specific professional accreditation. The M.L.S. is designed to provide legal knowledge for business professionals and is not a substitute for a qualifying law degree or authorization to practise law.

Reputation and Employability

The OU College of Law highlights the program's international focus, online flexibility, and access to a university alumni network of more than 250,000 people. The curriculum is taught by legal scholars and practitioners with experience in international business, government, finance, and international law. The program is offered entirely online and is designed to be completed in approximately 15 months, making it suitable for professionals who want to study while continuing to work.

Potential career pathways related to the program's subject areas include:

International business compliance specialist
Corporate compliance analyst
International trade or business operations specialist
Contract and commercial operations professional
Regulatory affairs specialist
Risk management professional
Business development professional working with international markets

The degree can help professionals develop legal awareness relevant to these roles, although employment opportunities depend on prior experience, qualifications, and the requirements of individual employers. The university's program page does not provide a specific current employability ranking for this degree, so no program-specific ranking is claimed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Oklahoma, the International Business Law, M.L.S. program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for navigating the complexities of global legal environments. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities that enhance their understanding of international business law through hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

The program emphasizes real-world applications, allowing students to immerse themselves in practical scenarios that prepare them for successful careers. Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities and resources available to you:

- Internships: Gain invaluable experience through internships with law firms, corporations, and international organizations, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on projects that simulate real-life legal challenges, fostering teamwork and critical thinking skills.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced legal research databases and software, such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, to enhance your research capabilities and stay current with legal trends.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to courts, law firms, and international organizations, providing firsthand insights into the practice of international business law.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research laboratories and study spaces equipped with the latest technology to support your academic and professional pursuits.
- Libraries: Benefit from the extensive resources at the Bizzell Memorial Library, which houses a comprehensive collection of legal texts and journals relevant to international business law.
- Institutes and Centers: Engage with specialized institutes, such as the Center for International Business and the International Trade Center, which offer workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities.

These experiential learning components are designed to ensure that you not only understand the theoretical aspects of international business law but also develop the practical skills necessary to excel in your career.

Consider applying to the International Business Law, M.L.S. program and take the first step toward a rewarding career in this dynamic field!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The International Business Law, M.L.S. program at the University of Oklahoma equips graduates with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in a globalized legal environment. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as corporate compliance officer, international trade advisor, or legal consultant, where they can leverage their expertise in navigating complex legal frameworks. This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also opens doors to a variety of career paths in the ever-evolving field of international business law.

Here’s how the University of Oklahoma supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of graduates from the College of Law secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $70,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The university has established partnerships with leading firms and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the American Bar Association, ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the legal profession.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have successfully transitioned into influential roles in multinational corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, showcasing the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the International Business Law, M.L.S. program, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) or a Ph.D. in Law. These advanced degrees can deepen your expertise and open up opportunities in academia, research, or high-level consultancy roles. Additionally, you might consider specialized certifications in areas such as international arbitration or trade law to enhance your qualifications and career prospects.