The Framework of the MSL

This degree is designed for students who believe that learning about environmental, energy, and natural resources law and policy would be beneficial to their professional development and career goals but do not want to practice law or go through the full law school program.

This approach is ideal for those interested in advocacy within the environmental law and policy field. The program allows students to take actual law school classes taught by law professors, often the same professors who teach on campus, and always with the same high-quality curriculum.

MSL students can be at the forefront of advising and advancing environmental regulations. The program provides multiple useful skills without the need to complete a full JD program. Graduates work for private, government and nonprofit entities and may also work in environmental journalism or educational institutions, with teachers and professors using the degree to enhance their classrooms.

Choosing Lewis & Clark

Since choosing among different types of graduate programs can be difficult, and understanding what a particular degree offers is crucial. Janice and Tess spend a lot of time with potential students discussing individual interests and career paths and help students feel confident in their choice.

MSL students come from various backgrounds and career stages. Some are recent college graduates, while others have established careers and are looking for a mid-career pivot.

Many students have some environmental background, either as their undergraduate major or through professional experience. They pursue the MSL degree to make an intentional shift to focus on environmental law and policy, driven by a passion for the field and the desire to address environmental challenges. The program helps students make this pivotal career change.

Curriculum and Courses

The MSL program offers a wide variety of classes, allowing students to focus on specific areas such as sustainability or natural resources law by doing core competency work in these specialty areas.

The online format of the program provides flexibility in choosing and scheduling classes. Students can decide how many classes to take each semester based on their personal schedules. The courses are asynchronous, meaning students can watch course videos and complete assignments within designated time periods that fit their schedules. This setup accommodates those with jobs, family obligations, or other commitments.

Thanks to the extensive and curated curriculum in the MSL program, students will develop expertise and competence in environmental and natural resources law and policy. Lewis and Clark’s strong national reputation in environmental law enhances the value of this master’s degree, signaling a commitment to the field to potential employers.

Additionally, the program benefits from a vast network of alumni. In addition to the ability to connect with MSL alums, Lewis and Clark’s JD program in environmental law has been in place since 1970, creating a large, supportive alumni community – all of whom are available to talk with students as you’re starting to think about your professional goals. Between our faculty, staff, alumni, and our career services office, we can help you find that dream job. You have access to all of these resources not only as a student, but once you graduate, as well.

Career Options and Opportunities

Hiring trends are promising in environmental law and policy, and much can be done with an MSL degree. Environmental law is a steady field and necessary discipline, and currently, there are many opportunities relating to climate change issues. The program teaches how to read statutes and laws, enabling students to apply this knowledge to their jobs.

There is also a growing demand in the private sector for regulatory compliance expertise. MSL graduates can work with companies to ensure they understand and adhere to relevant environmental laws. Additionally, opportunities in environmental justice and sustainability are increasing. 

A graduate degree indicates a dedicated interest in a specific area, and the MSL is no exception. The program supports each student’s career path by identifying beneficial internships and working to maximize professional opportunities during their studies.

Notes from and MSL Graduate

Guest speaker Anne-Thrall Nash graduated from Oregon State with degrees in environmental economics and sustainability. Wanting to pursue a Master’s degree, she initially explored energy economics, drawn by her interest in advancing the clean energy transition. Realizing the field’s heavy regulatory and legal aspects, she opted for Lewis and Clark’s MSL program, attracted also to environmental law opportunities and the program’s flexibility with online and in-person classes, crucial for balancing her family obligations in Portland. Starting in fall 2022, she completed the program over two years, participating in practicum opportunities and securing paid work, benefitting from her program connections. She contributed her expertise to Renewable Northwest, an energy advocacy nonprofit in Portland.

She also worked as a clerk for the Green Energy Institute at Lewis and Clark Law School during her last semester there, gaining practical skills. Reflecting on her experiences, she noted that Lewis and Clark Law School enjoys a strong reputation within the environmental and energy community, which proved beneficial in interviews for positions during and after her program. She received positive feedback from individuals familiar with the school, whether they had attended or knew of its reputation.

Interested in joining Anne-Thrall in environmental advocacy thanks to the skills and credentials from an acclaimed institution? Apply for Lewis & Clark’s Online Environmental Law Program today.