Learning Outcomes: Law, MSL

Learning Outcomes for the Master of Studies in Law

  1. Demonstrate basic knowledge of American substantive and procedural law. This requires
    1. The foundational rules governing liability for civil or criminal wrongdoing.
    2. The foundational rules that regulate the transaction of business among individuals and the ownership of property.
    3. The constitutional rules that shape the American legal system.
    4. The procedural rules that govern court adjudication.
    5. Several advanced areas of substantive or procedural law or both.
  2. Use legal reasoning and legal analysis. This requires:
    1. The ability to identify, formulate, and apply legal rules.
    2. The ability to read and analyze judicial opinions.
    3. The ability to parse and interpret legal texts such as statutes, regulations, contracts.
  3. Bring practical legal skills. This requires:
    1. The ability to write clearly and effectively in a wide range of legal contexts and for various audiences, such as courts, clients, opposing counsel and academics.
    2. The ability to articulate one’s thoughts verbally in a clear and effective manner.
    3. Knowledge of and ability to use tools of legal research.
    4. The ability to identify and gather factual information relevant to the application of legal rules.
    5. The ability to work collaboratively with others, including others with opposing interests.
  4. Conduct himself or herself professionally and in keeping with the highest standards of civic virtue. This requires:
    1. Knowledge and appreciation of the ethical rules governing legal practice.
    2. The ability to learn and grow professionally through self-reflection and continuing education.
    3. An understanding of the lawyer’s distinctive role in society and of the lawyer’s concomitant responsibility to contribute to society through public service and pro bono representation. 
    4. The ability to understand and be understood across various social, economic, cultural, political, national, racial, gender, and ethnic backgrounds.       
  5. Produce a substantial piece of substantial research and analysis