Degree: Law Degrees

Online J.D. Program

Welcome to St. Mary’s Law, where we lead with tradition and innovation.
This is a limited-enrollment, part-time program.

We understand that not all students have the time to enroll in law school full-time or the ability to attend classes on campus. For students with considerably more outside responsibilities,  the St. Mary’s University School of Law is proud to offer the first fully online J.D. program accredited by the American Bar Association in the nation.

Our renowned faculty, which consists of legal experts in specialties from business law to international law, receives extensive training in online education and pedagogy, and all professors are fully certified to teach online.

As an online student at St. Mary’s Law, you will have access to the same opportunities and resources as a full-time student, including career counseling and advice through the Office of Career Strategy, academic advising from the Office of Bar Success and student services from the Office of Law Student Affairs.

FAQs

View the videos below to see frequently asked questions answered by current students.

Balancing Life and Law School

Surviving and Succeeding

Connecting with Professors and Peers

Understanding the Commitment

VIEW FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How will classes be taught?

The online J.D. program will consist of 50% synchronous and 50% asynchronous teaching methods for the first-year curriculum. Upper-level courses may be offered as a combination of synchronous and asynchronous methods, or fully asynchronous with heightened requirements for student interaction and stricter enrollment caps.

How will the online J.D. prepare me for the bar exam?

St. Mary’s Law has a robust, data-driven bar preparation program that is individually tailored to each student. In addition to providing extensive coaching and custom bar study schedules, our instructors work with each student to understand what approach works best for them. Online students will also have 100% access to all of our bar coaching resources. Students can expect to receive a personal bar study coach who will check in with them, set up one-on-one meetings over Zoom and help them assess their progress.

Can I decide to move from the online program to the full-time program?

After completing the first-year curriculum online, online J.D. students may opt to continue in the in-person full-time program.

Can international students apply for the online J.D.?

International students are not automatically excluded from admission to the online J.D. program; however, the program is unlikely to meet the unique needs of international students given differences in time zones and synchronous class meeting times. Rather, the program’s intent is to expand access to legal education in South Texas, and to offer opportunities nationally to those who would find it difficult to pursue a traditional in-person J.D.

Can I participate in campus events and extracurricular activities?

Online students are invited to visit campus and participate in any on-campus activities or meet with faculty and staff for assistance at any time during their degree program. Online students will also be able to complete externships, pro bono activities and non-clinic experiential learning in the online environment. Faculty and staff will be fully available to online students through virtual office hours, email, and individual Zoom meetings. Our faculty prides itself on an open-door policy that we are eager to extend to our online cohort.

Can I participate in Registered Student Organizations?

One hallmark of the St. Mary’s J.D. experience is getting involved on campus. As an online student, you will have the opportunity to choose from more than 30 active registered student organizations, which promote a variety of interests and practice areas. Online students can even start their own student organizations and are encouraged to do so.

Is there anything I cannot do as an online student?

Not every elective course in the course directory will be offered in an online format every semester. However, students will have significant advance notice of elective availability for each upcoming semester, and will receive course advising that maximizes their educational opportunities based on interest and career goals.

Will I have to attend orientation as an online student?

To welcome all incoming J.D. students to St. Mary’s, the law school hosts a three-day, in-person Orientation program. This program introduces students to our Marianist tradition, the practice of law, the skills needed to be successful in law school and allows for opportunities to meet classmates and professors. Highlights include a mock law school class, a practice law school exam, chances to mingle with alumni and a class service project. Online students are strongly encouraged to attend this Orientation in person, and will receive information about lodging, timing and the experience as the date approaches. Online students are also encouraged to participate in our innovative First Generation Student Boot Camp, which provides several days of skills training for students entering law school as the first lawyer in their family.

Will I need to attend in-person sessions as part of my online education?

No, although there will be activities such as Orientation, that you will be strongly encouraged to attend in person.

  • St. Mary’s School of Law Joins Online Course Collaboration 

    Continuing to find ways to offer its students online access to their education, the St. Mary’s University School of Law has partnered with three other law schools, offering students the chance to take courses through the other law schools at no additional cost.  

    Learn More

Online J.D. Program Tuition Information

Online J.D. students will pay the current part-time tuition rate, which can be viewed in the Tuition and Fees webpage.  St. Mary’s is proud to offer an online J.D. that provides the same quality teaching, student services and community that are hallmarks of our in-person degree.  As such, online J.D. students should expect an engaging and informative classroom experience and an open “virtual” door to our online-certified faculty.  Additionally, online students will have the opportunity to take advantage of our career and academic counseling, pro bono opportunities, networking events and more.  And, the online degree comes with a significant cost savings in living expenses, board and transportation.

Learn more about Tuition and Fees

Curriculum for Online Students

As an online student, you will take a planned curriculum designed to teach you the foundations of substantive law and the applications of legal writing and analysis. You will always have the option of taking an in-person course, but it is not required for completion of the degree. To ensure that our online students receive a quality educational experience, our online cohort will be capped at 25 students.

While schedules may vary each semester and year, enrolled students in the Online J.D. Program should expect synchronous learning scheduled to meet during live, online lectures three times a week during the work week from the hours of 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Central time.

View the Course Schedule for more information on the courses.

Students in a classroom taking notes on a laptop

First Term

  • Contracts I (2 hours)
  • Civ. Pro. (4 hours)
  • Legal Communication, Analysis & Professionalism (LCAP) (3 hours)

Second Term

  • Contracts II (2 hours)
  • Property (4 hours)
  • LCAP II (3 hours)

Third Term

  • Criminal Law (2 or 3 hours)

Fourth Term

  • Torts (4 hours)
  • Constitutional Law (4 hours)

Fifth Term (Start of Second-Year Curriculum)

  • Business Associations (3 hours)
  • Family Law (3 hours)
  • Elective

Sixth Term

  • Evidence (3 or 4 hours)
  • Elective

Seventh Term

  • Con Crim Pro. (3 hours)
  • Wills, Estates & Trusts (4 hours)
  • Elective

Eighth Term

  • Conflicts of Law (3 hours)
  • Sales (2 hours)
  • Elective

Ninth Term (Start of Third-Year Curriculum)

  • Secured Transactions (3 hours)
  • Electives

Tenth Term

  • Mortgages (3 hours)
  • Electives

Eleventh Term

  • Electives
VIEW THE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Accreditation

The St. Mary’s Law online J.D. program is approved by the American Bar Association. Applicants should confirm the legal education requirements for the jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission to the bar, and can find information for each jurisdiction through the National Conference of Bar Examiners.

St. Mary’s Law is accredited by the ABA, but jurisdictions may have restrictions regarding online degree programs. Graduates of the St. Mary’s Law online J.D. program are eligible to sit for the Texas Bar Exam, which includes the Uniform Bar Exam, according to the Texas Supreme Court and the Texas Board of Law Examiners.

Academic Requirements

Applicants may apply to either the full-time day program or the part-time online program, but not to both. Admission and graduation standards are the same for both J.D. programs.

A candidate for the J.D. program must earn a minimum of 90 credit hours in order to graduate.  Additionally, J.D. students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.3 or higher to graduate.   Other curricular and academic requirements will apply. Requirements are set forth in the St. Mary’s School of Law Student Handbook.

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The First Online J.D. Program

Learn from the first Online J.D. Program cohort members who graduated in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. When the program launched in Fall 2022, it was the first fully online J.D. program accredited by the American Bar Association. Read more about how the nation’s first Online J.D. Program graduates share special camaraderie at St. Mary’s Law.

Read Story

LL.M. in American Legal Studies

Earning a graduate law degree in English from a U.S. institution can give you a comparative perspective on practicing law in your own country as well as enhance your job opportunities. You will also gain insights into the workings of common law structure and procedures as well as American legal traditions and doctrine. Candidates will also be challenged through active classroom learning and the Socratic method. If you have an LL.B. and plan to establish eligibility to sit for a state bar exam this program is right for you and can provide the insights and networking opportunities to help you succeed professionally.

The LL.M. in American Legal Studies is a degree for internationally trained lawyers. American trained lawyers are not eligible.

This degree satisfies the U.S. legal education requirement for the LL.M. graduate to sit for the Texas, California or New York Bar exams. Some jurisdictions require additional components, such as pro bono service, and each candidate is responsible for determining those requirements as set by each state.

The American Legal Studies concentration is now available through online course curriculum.

For more information, please contact A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships, at abellidodeluna@stmarytx.edu or 210-436-3779.

Why an LL.M.?

Twenty-four credit hours are required to earn the LL.M. in American Legal Studies. Students have two years to complete the degree, but can complete the program in two semesters of full-time study. Candidates for the bar are strongly encouraged to investigate the requirements for the bar and to enroll in the courses that will be tested.

Two unique features of the program offered by St. Mary’s Law include:

  • Access to bar prep courses, which must be taken outside of the 24-credit-hour requirement
  • Access to online course content for self-prep purposes

LL.M. versus J.D.

The LL.M. degree in American Legal Studies is a nine-month program with global credibility. It is open to students who have finished a law degree either in the United States or in a foreign country.

LL.M. stands for Legum Magister, which is more commonly called Master of Laws. It contains two “L”s due to its Latin origins, where the second “L” makes the first “L” plural.
J.D. programs are the standard degree typically earned to sit for a bar exam to become a practicing lawyer. J.D. programs typically span three years of full-time study.

International Students

International students must study on a full-time basis. Foreign nationals who must maintain student visa eligibility must enroll in a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester during the regular academic year (Fall and Spring). Ten hours is also considered full time for purposes of financial aid eligibility.

The School of Law is a member of the International Association of Law Schools and the International Academy of Comparative Law (Académie Internationale de Droit Comparé).

American Legal Studies LL.M. Courses

Required Courses

  • Introduction to the American Legal System
  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Professional Responsibility (Required for the bar)
  • Two courses from the following list:
    • Civil Procedure
    • Contracts
    • Criminal Law
    • Property
    • Torts
    • Constitutional Law

Other courses and seminars offered in the LL.M. program in American Legal Studies include:
  • Evidence
  • Sales/Secured Transactions
  • Oil and Gas
  • Deceptive Trade Practices
  • Immigration Law
  • Business Associations
  • Patent and Copyright Law 

Online American Legal Studies LL.M. Program

Core curriculum overview

The St. Mary’s University School of Law offers a robust curriculum tailored to equip students with a deep understanding of American legal principles. As part of the program, students will engage in the following foundational courses: 

● Introduction to the American Legal System: A comprehensive overview of the structure, function, and foundational principles of the U.S. legal framework. 

● Legal Research and Writing (LRW): Practical training in legal analysis, writing, and research techniques essential for professional success. 

● Torts: Exploration of civil liability, negligence, and intentional misconduct within the legal context. 

● Contracts: Detailed examination of contractual relationships 

● Professional Responsibility: ethical obligations within the legal profession. 

● Constitutional Law: In-depth study of constitutional principles and targeted preparation for the bar examination. 

● Property Law: Analysis of property rights, ownership structures, and land use regulations. 

● Criminal Law: Offers an in-depth study of the principles and procedures of criminal law, focusing on offenses, defenses, and the criminal justice system. 

● Bar Preparation: Designed to help students succeed in the bar exam (free for graduates). 

Why choose our online LL.M.?

Our Online LL.M. in American Legal Studies is designed for ambitious legal professionals and international students aiming to expand their expertise in U.S. law. Delivered 100% synchronously, the program fosters real-time interaction and a vibrant learning community. 

Key highlights include: 

● Interactive Learning: Participate in live sessions, weekly discussions, and collaborative activities with peers and professors. 

● Personalized Support: Access faculty through virtual office hours, one-on-one meetings, and comprehensive academic resources. 

● Flexibility: Study from anywhere while engaging in a rigorous curriculum tailored for working professionals. 

Join a community of learners.

At St. Mary’s Law, we cultivate a supportive and inclusive academic environment. Whether online or on campus, students benefit from: 

● Access to renowned faculty with expertise in diverse legal fields. 

● A dedicated Office of Career Strategy offering tailored career advice.

● Networking opportunities with an international cohort of legal professionals. 

This program not only prepares you for professional success but also connects you with a global legal network, ensuring your education transcends borders. Learn more and take the next step in your legal journey today!

LAW SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Request Information

For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the request information form.

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Applying to the LL.M.

See details about admission requirements, how to apply and scholarship opportunities.

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Public and Private Scholarships

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Portrait of A.J. Bellido de Luna

A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships and the Hardy Professor of Practice

Joint Degree Programs

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Students can earn credit toward the selected master’s degree by satisfying the requirements for doctor of jurisprudence. These programs allow students at St. Mary’s to complement their training in the law with advanced study in another discipline.

The first year of academic work for a law student pursuing a joint degree consists entirely of law courses. During the second and third year, law and master’s degree courses are taken. Depending on the specific requirements of the master’s degree program, a student ordinarily can earn both a law degree and a master’s degree in three or four years.

An interested applicant must gain admission to both the Law School and Graduate Studies, which make separate admissions decisions. Application to Graduate Studies may be made after the student begins law school.

Following are brief descriptions of the joint-degree programs offered by St. Mary’s University.

J.D. / MBA

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Greehey Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Gain the technical, analytical, leadership and other business skills to advance your career with an accredited online MBA degree that is recognized and respected all over the world. Federal, state and corporate taxation, estate planning, banking and finance, accounting and corporate management are but a few of the areas in which law and business overlap. Students who wish to serve as counsel to corporations, or specialize in business and commercial law, would benefit from an advanced degree in business.

Learn more about J.D./MBA

J.D. / M.A. in International Relations

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Arts in International Relations (M.A.)

Due to the internationalization of relations among the countries of the world, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and the globalization of the world’s economy, there is an increased need for lawyers who have an international perspective on the practice of law.

Among the courses offered in the International Relations program are Ethical Issues in International Relations, International Law and Treaties, International Political Economy, Human Rights, and Border Security and Immigration Policy.

Learn more about J.D./MAIR

J.D. / M.P.A.

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Arts in Public Administration (M.P.A.)

Controversies concerning the utilization of natural resources, land use (zoning, planning and economic development), labor relations, the administration of justice and civil rights all illustrate the importance of law in the public sector. Courses taken in this program include Ethics, Leadership, Public Policy Analysis, Urban Political Institutes and many others.

Learn more about J.D./M.P.A.

J.D. / M.A. in Theology

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Arts in Theology (M.A.)

The program is especially suited for students who wish to pursue a legal career as a form of ministry. Professor Michael S. Ariens is the J.D./M.A. adviser.

Among the courses offered in the master’s of Theology program are Foundational Moral Theology Ethics, Ecology and Christian Ethics, Dynamics of Spiritual Life, Marriage and the Family, Theology of Human Sexuality, and Principles of Theological Method.

Learn more about Theology

J.D. / M.A. in English Literature and Language

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Arts in English Literature and Language (M.A.)

The St. Mary’s School of Law and College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences offer a joint program of study leading to the degrees of Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) and Master of Arts in English Literature and Language. The joint degree program allows a student to complete the requirements for both degrees in three to four years.

Admission to the joint program requires application to both Schools, although application to the Graduate Studies at St. Mary’s need not be made until the student begins law school. Upon successful application to both programs, students work with the graduate program director and the law school to coordinate student scheduling for completion of both degree programs.

Learn more about ELL

J.D. / M.P.H. with UTHealth Houston

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

The St. Mary’s School of Law and the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health offer a joint program of study leading to the degrees of Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) and Master of Public Health (M.P.H.). The joint degree program prepares students for careers at the intersection of law, public health, and policy, allowing them to bring a legal perspective to complex health challenges.

Admission to the joint program requires application to both institutions. Application to the M.P.H. program is handled through the SOPHAS centralized application system and may be completed after the student begins law school. Upon admission to both programs, students coordinate with advisors at both St. Mary’s Law and UTHealth Houston to plan their course of study.

Please see link below for details about M.P.H. For more information from UTHealth Houston, contact Jordan Perry, Academic and Admissions Advisor, by email at Jordan.Perry@uth.tmc.edu or by phone at 210-276-9016.

Learn more about M.P.H.

J.D. / M.S. in Computer Science

  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
  • Master of Arts in Computer Science (M.S.)

The St. Mary’s School of Law and School of Science, Engineering and Technology offer a joint program of study leading to the degrees of Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) and Master of Science in Computer Science. The joint degree program allows a student to complete the requirements for both degrees in three to four years.

Admission to the joint program requires application to both Schools, although application to the Graduate Studies at St. Mary’s need not be made until the student begins law school. Upon successful application to both programs, students work with the graduate program director and the law school to coordinate student scheduling for completion of both degree programs.

Learn more about Computer science

LL.M. in International and Comparative Law

The LL.M. in International and Comparative Law is a post-J.D. degree designed for American-trained lawyers who have already obtained a law degree and who will benefit from specialized training in international and comparative law. International students who have a foundation in American Jurisprudence are also welcome to apply.

An LL.M. degree in International and Comparative Law will improve your marketability to firms engaging in international policymaking or who represent clients with international interest. The program also gives the students opportunity to specialize in a field.

For more information, please contact A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships, at abellidodeluna@stmarytx.edu or 210-436-3779.

International Students

International students must study on a full-time basis. Foreign nationals who must maintain student visa eligibility must enroll in a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester during the regular academic year (Fall and Spring). Ten hours is also considered full time for purposes of financial aid eligibility.

The School of Law is a member of the International Association of Law Schools and the International Academy of Comparative Law (Académie Internationale de Droit Comparé).

The International and Comparative Law concentration is now also available through online course curriculum.

LL.M. Courses

Students are required to take courses in both public international law and comparative law.

Courses taken in fulfillment of J.D. requirement may not be repeated.

  • Public International Law
  • Comparative Law
  • Thesis and Research (Foreign-trained are exempt)

Other courses and seminars offered in the LL.M. program in International and Comparative Law include:

  • International Cyber Warfare
  • International Human Rights
  • Human Trafficking
  • International and Domestic Health Care Law
  • International White Collar Crime
  • International Law of the Sea
  • Import/Export Law
  • Immigration Law
  • International Arbitration
  • International Law of Stolen Art
  • International Litigation
  • Comparative Law
  • International Business Transactions
  • International Organizations
  • Doing Business with Mexico
  • International Alternative Dispute Resolution and Tribunals
  • European Union Law
  • Legal Spanish and the Mexican Legal System 
LL.M. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Degree requirements
Portrait of Professor Robert Hu in suit and tie

“American lawyers today work in a global environment. Study in comparative and international law will better prepare them to be competent and effective lawyers.”

-Robert H. Hu

View Faculty Bio

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For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the request information form.

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Applying to the LL.M.

See details about admission requirements, how to apply and scholarship opportunities.

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Public and Private Scholarships

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Portrait of A.J. Bellido de Luna

A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships and the Hardy Professor of Practice

LL.M. in International Criminal Law

The LL.M. in International Criminal Law is a post-J.D. degree designed for American lawyers who intend to pursue a specialized government career as a federal or state prosecutor or as a private-sector criminal defense lawyer. International students who have a foundation in American Jurisprudence may apply as well.

This LL.M. degree is also appropriate for those lawyers who choose to practice in the areas of federal law enforcement, military law or who liaise with the 17 agencies that make up the intelligence community.

For more information, please contact A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships, at abellidodeluna@stmarytx.edu or 210-436-3779.

LL.M. Degree Plan

Each of the three LL.M. programs at the St. Mary’s School of Law requires 24 credit hours of coursework, a portion of which can be customized to each individual’s needs. The LL.M. program can be completed in as little as nine months as a full-time student, or over the course of two years as a part-time student.

International Criminal Law LL.M. candidates are required to successfully complete 21 out of 24 credit hours from the specific criminal law courses outlined in the Courses section. Courses taken in fulfillment of J.D. requirements may not be repeated. Students have two years to complete the degree, but can complete the program in two semesters of full-time study.

The International Criminal Law concentration is now available through online course curriculum.

LL.M. Courses

Required Courses:

  • Public International Law (Required)
  • International Human Rights
  • International Criminal Law
  • Transnational Criminal Law
  • International White Collar Crime
  • Global National Security Law
  • Terrorism Law 
  • Comparative Criminal Procedure
  • Advanced Criminal Procedure 

Other courses and seminars offered in the LL.M. program in International Criminal Law include:

  • Constitutional Criminal Procedure
  • Wrongful Convictions
  • Capital Punishment Seminar
  • Texas Criminal Procedure
LL.M. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

The International Criminal Law concentration is now available through online course curriculum. Contact Assistant Dean Jennifer Stevenson, J.D., for more information

International Students

International students must study on a full-time basis. Foreign nationals who must maintain student visa eligibility must enroll in a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester during the regular academic year (Fall and Spring). Ten hours is also considered full time for purposes of financial aid eligibility.

The School of Law is a member of the International Association of Law Schools and the International Academy of Comparative Law (Académie Internationale de Droit Comparé).

Request Information

For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the request information form.

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Applying to the LL.M.

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Portrait of A.J. Bellido de Luna

A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships and the Hardy Professor of Practice

Employment and Human Resource Law Concentration

Mastering human resource management and mitigating risk can be daunting as the legal landscape responds to new working conditions and the effects of the pandemic, and realigns with new regulations.

Adding a credential in Employment and Human Resource Law will compliment your first degree in law, differentiate you from your colleagues and give you the insights you need to navigate this emerging legal field.

From managing benefits and compensation to labor relations and employee rights your clients will benefit from your deeper understanding of human resource law.

For more information, please contact A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships, at abellidodeluna@stmarytx.edu or 210-436-3779.

Required Courses

The Employment and Human Resource Law concentration is now also available through online course curriculum.

Course NameCredit Hours
Human Resource Law or Human Resource Core3
Employment Law3
Admin Law and Regulatory Interpretation or Administrative Law3
Business Structures and Statutory Requirements or Business Associations3
Business Law & Ethics1
HIPAA Privacy Law2
Negotiations3
Human Resource Capstone2

Employment and Human Resource Law Concentration

 In addition to required courses, students must pick 3 hours from the elective list.

Elective CoursesCredit Hours
Mediation3
Intl ADR3
Intl White Collar Crime2
Advanced Torts2
Arbitration3
Employment Discrimination Law3
Degree requirements

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For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the request information form.

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Applying to the LL.M.

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Portrait of A.J. Bellido de Luna

A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships and the Hardy Professor of Practice

Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) – Special Education Advocacy Concentration

The Special Education Advocacy Concentration is just one of your options. See the main Master of Legal Studies page for details about the overall program and other available options.

Special Education Advocacy 

The field of special education and advocacy is a growing and in-demand field with strong career prospects, both nationally and in Texas. Pursuing a graduate program in this field can help professionals advance their careers and make a positive impact on the lives of students with disabilities and their families. Our Master of Legal Studies with a concentration in Special Education Advocacy is designed to prepare students for careers in special education teaching, advocacy and related fields. This new graduate degree concentration can aid school personnel, service providers and those advocating on behalf of students with disabilities and their families in gaining a greater understanding of the law in this area.

Upon learning of this ground-breaking M.Jur. program in Special Education Advocacy, I immediately applied. This innovative graduate program concentration is the first and only one to receive acquiescence from the American Bar Association and it is entirely online, making it accessible wherever an advocate may live. I hope others will join me and enroll, taking one step forward towards making special education advocacy a true profession.

– Patricia Johnson Howey (M.Jur. ’24), Veteran Special Education Advocate

Professional advancement

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of special education teachers and advocates is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for special education services for students with disabilities. In addition, there is a growing need for advocates who can help families navigate the complex special education system. In Texas, the BLS reports that employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is slightly faster than the national average. Texas has a large and diverse population, including many students with disabilities who require special education services. Additionally, there is a need for advocates who can support families in navigating the special education system in Texas.

Catherine M. Michael, J.D. is an attorney who is licensed and practices throughout the states of Indiana, Texas, Michigan and Ohio. She focuses on representing children and their families in a myriad of personal injury and education law issues. Her expertise encompasses personal injury of children and disabled adults, special education due process, Section 504 matters, expulsion and disciplinary challenges, and tort-related litigation including sexual abuse, molestation and rape both within and outside school settings, as well as private school disputes and discipline. 

View Bio

Required Courses

Core courses
Fundamentals of the American Legal System
Legal Research and Writing
Choose two from the following:
Criminal Law
Constitutional Law
Contracts
Property Law
Torts

Additional Special Education Training Opportunities

The St. Mary’s University School of Law offers a Special Education Advocacy Summit.

Learn more

Concentration Emphasis Courses

Course NameCourse Numbers
Administrative Law*LW 5302
Education Law*LW 5309
Special Education Law*LW 5608, 7234
Child Protective ServicesLW 6600
Employment LawLW 5308, 8791
Family LawLW 7331
Family Law MediationLW 7295
Federal Education LawLW 6600
Immigration LawLW 9441
Juvenile LawLW 8244
MediationLW 8755
Mental Health and the LawLW 5610, 6600
NegotiationsLW 5310, 8761
School Discipline, Expulsion and Due ProcessLW 5614
Trauma Informed AdvocacyLW 5230
Digital Evidence and RecordsLW 5612
Personal Injury of ChildrenLW 5211

Courses marked with an * are required electives. Two additional courses from the list must be chosen.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

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Curious which Law Certificate is right for you? Questions about the admission process or the program? Our team will answer any questions and help you through the process when you’re ready.

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Shannon Sevier, Assistant Dean for Graduate Law Programs

Territorial Law Concentration

Nearly four million people live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa.  Although part of the United States, these five territories and their residents do not enjoy the same constitutional and statutory rights as Americans who live in the fifty states.

At the same time, each territory has developed its own distinct law and institutions with the United States legal framework, with renewed pushes for greater self-determination, equality and economic development.

While applicants from all backgrounds are welcome, the program is particularly well-suited for those who intend to or currently practice law in the territories or who represent clients who do business in the territories.

The L.L.M. will consist of 24 credit hours that can be completed on-campus, fully online to accommodate attorneys already practicing in U.S. territories or through a combination of courses and externships.

The Territorial Law concentration is now also available through online course curriculum.

For more information, please contact A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships, at abellidodeluna@stmarytx.edu or 210-436-3779.

The General LL.M. concentration in Territorial Law is designed to provide students with academic and practical training in the complex issues facing United States territories and their people. Students will develop proficiency through coursework and experiential learning opportunities in a wide variety of areas, including but not limited to territorial laws and legal systems, human rights, economic development, and constitutional law. 

-Anthony Ciolli

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Required Courses

Required CoreCredit Hours
Advanced Con Law – U.S. Territories (available online)3
State & Territorial Legal Institution (available online)3
COURSE LISTINGS

Remaining Coursework

 In addition to required courses, students must pick 12 hours from the elective list.

Elective CoursesCredit Hours
Administrative Law (available online)3
Advanced Con Law: Free Speech, Press3
Advanced Con Law: 1st Amendment3
Asset Protection Planning2
Com Law – Sec Trans Drafting1
Commercial Paper3
Comparative Law3
Doing Business with Mexico3
Federal Courts3
International ADR and Tribunals2
International Commercial Arbitration2
International Human Rights2
Leg Spanish & Mexican Legal System3
Race and Racism in American Law2
Sales: UCC Article 22
Sales/Secured Transactions4
Secured Transactions: UCC Article 93

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For more information, please email stmullm@stmarytx.edu or complete the request information form.

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Portrait of A.J. Bellido de Luna

A.J. Bellido de Luna, J.D., Associate Dean of Advocacy and International Partnerships and the Hardy Professor of Practice

Master of Legal Studies –
Health Care Compliance Law Concentration

The Health Care Compliance Law Concentration is just one of your options. See the main Master of Legal Studies page for details about the overall program and other available options.

M.L.S. in Health Care Compliance Law

The landscape of health care and health care compliance has been reshaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only is job demand up by more than 30% in several key sectors in the San Antonio metro area and the I-35 corridor, but corporate investment in such positions has also increased according to rising salaries.

In a recent report by the Society of Human Resources Professionals, the top three priority areas for health care compliance professionals are evidencing compliance program effectiveness, improving program manager ongoing monitoring and increasing leadership support. As the health care industry continues to grow and evolve in San Antonio and across the nation, professionals in the field are required to manage increasingly diverse functions. The industry has seen an increased emphasis on fraud prevention, an expansion of telemedicine and credentialing, as well as antitrust enforcement and health care privacy regulation. Ideal candidates for the 30-credit-hour M.L.S. program’s Health Care Compliance Concentration work in health care sectors that intersect with the law or are looking to pivot into the health field.

Program components are curated to offer the most efficient delivery of substantive compliance curriculum and procedural fundamentals. This concentration will familiarize you with those concepts required to obtain certification through the Compliance Certification Board. See what our online Master of Legal Studies in Health Care Compliance can offer you in terms of your own professional development and meeting these emerging industry needs.

“Dean (Shannon) Sevier, please know I am grateful for everything that you and the faculty have done and are doing for me! My heart is full of gratitude and appreciation.”

-Kristina Clements (M.Jur. ’22)

Clements is a medical professional with more than 20 years of experience. Shortly after graduating, she was promoted to the position of Department Administrator for the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of a Dallas medical center.

Professional advancement

Invest in Your Education for Career Success

The health care industry is in a state of constant flux. Regulatory requirements, data privacy concerns and ethical considerations are continually reshaping the way health care organizations operate. The demand for professionals who can ensure compliance with the ever-expanding web of rules and regulations has surged to new heights. Health care organizations are actively seeking compliance experts to navigate the intricacies of a changing landscape. Become an invaluable asset to your organization by mastering compliance.

Your Journey to Health care Compliance Excellence

In a health care landscape that demands unwavering commitment to compliance, an investment in your education is an investment in your future. A legal master’s degree in health care compliance will equip you with the skills, knowledge and confidence to excel in this critical field. Don’t let the ever-changing nature of healthcare compliance leave you behind. Enroll today and become the professional who shapes the future of compliance in the healthcare sector. Your journey begins here, and your impact knows no bounds. Invest in your education and secure your place at the forefront of healthcare compliance excellence.

“It surprises many people to learn that health care is one of the most heavily regulated industries in the United States. Our M.L.S. program in Health Care Compliance Law provides students with the tools needed to understand how the regulatory landscape currently affects the business of health care and the evolving trends that will shape how health care is delivered in the future.”

-Jill Vogel, J.D.
Practicing Faculty

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Required Courses

Core courses
Fundamentals of the American Legal System
Legal Research and Writing
Choose two from the following:
Criminal Law
Constitutional Law
Contracts
Property Law
Torts

Concentration Emphasis Courses

Course NameCourse Numbers
Administrative Law*LW 5302, 7374
Health Law*LW 5312, 7725
Business Structures*LW 5305, 7310
Compliance*LW 5307, 8217
Mental Health and the LawLW 5610
Business Law and EthicsLW 5508
HIPAA Privacy LawLW 5607
AntitrustLW 8389
Employment LawLW 5308, 8791
Insurance LawLW 7397
Contract DraftingLW 7253
Digital Evidence and RecordsLW 5612

Courses marked with an * are required electives. Two additional courses from the list must be chosen.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

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Shannon Sevier, Assistant Dean for Graduate Law Programs

Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.)–
Education Law Concentration

The Education Law Concentration is just one of your options. See the main Master of Legal Studies page for details about the overall program and other available options.

M.L.S. Education Law Concentration

Education administration and education law and policy are growing and in-demand fields with strong career prospects in the San Antonio metroplex and the I-35 corridor. Pursuing the Master of Legal Studies Program with a concentration in Education can help professionals advance their careers and make a positive impact on the education system in their community. There is also a growing demand for advocates with expertise in education law and policy to serve in school administration and area nonprofits. This is driven by the increasing complexity of education laws and regulations, as well as the need for schools and educational institutions to navigate legal and policy issues related to student rights, teacher contracts and funding.

I plan to use my M.Jur. degree with a concentration in Education Law to help students. I believe that academic advising and mentoring are a partnership with students and an essential part of teaching and research. As an advisor, I would like to engage with students at the secondary or post-secondary school levels to help them in their planning, and teach them how to navigate relevant academic resources, and encourage them to take responsibility for decisions about their academic progress.

-Douglas McBryde (M.Jur. ’21)

Proven results and professional advancement

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of education administrators nationally is projected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. Texas has a large and diverse population, with a significant number of students and educational institutions. The BLS projects that employment of education administrators in the San Antonio-New Braunfels metropolitan area is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the national average. This growth is driven by a growing population and the need for administrators to manage and lead educational institutions. There is also a growing demand for professionals who can coordinate policies and procedures with legal teams who require contextual support and occupational insights related to education law and policy to inform their practice on behalf of school districts.

In Brown v. the Board of Education, the Supreme Court stated that ‘education is the most important function of state and local governments.’  The Court went on to say, ‘Today it is the principal instrument in awakening the child to cultural values, in preparing them for later professional training and in helping him to adjust normally to his environment. In these days, it is doubtful that any child may reasonably be expected to succeed in life if he is denied the opportunity of an education.’ While these words were written over 60 years, they remain salient today. Education remains the bedrock of any democracy and the understanding of the intersection of law and education remains essential to understanding the vital concepts of democratic values.

-Alan Haynes, J.D.
Retired Assistant Service Professor in Law

Required Courses

Core courses
Fundamentals of the American Legal System
Legal Research and Writing
Choose two from the following:
Criminal Law
Constitutional Law
Contracts
Property Law
Torts

Concentration Emphasis Courses

Course NameCourse Numbers
Administrative LawLW 7704
Education Law*LW 7380
Child Protective ServicesLW 7265
Employment LawLW 7600
Family LawLW 8604
Family Law MediationLW 6200
Federal Education LawLW 5313
Immigration LawLW 5609
Juvenile LawLW 5612
MediationLW 5310
Mental Health and the LawLW 5610, 6600
NegotiationsLW 5310, 8761
Special Education LawLW 5608, 7234
School Discipline, Expulsion and Due ProcessLW 5614
Digital Evidence and RecordsLW 5612
Advanced Torts: Personal Injury of ChildrenLW XXXX

Courses marked with an * are required electives. Two additional courses from the list must be chosen.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Request Information

Curious which Law Certificate is right for you? Questions about the admission process or the program? Our team will answer any questions and help you through the process when you’re ready.

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Applying to the M.L.S.

See details about admission requirements and how to apply:

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Shannon Sevier, Assistant Dean for Graduate Law Programs

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