Human Resources track

For our Human Resources track, we are one of only two online graduate degrees in North Carolina with a SHRM-aligned curriculum and recognition as a SHRM recertification provider. Our students can earn SHRM credentials while they complete their degree.

– Adam Landreth

Assistant Dean for Online Programs at Wake Forest University School of Law

Human resources (HR) professionals contend with complex issues like compliance rules and regulations, risk management, and employee relations, so it’s crucial for these professionals to not only understand the law, but know how to apply it to real-world situations.

With the Wake Forest University School of Law’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Human Resources, HR professionals will gain the tools to fairly and consistently handle employee disputes, protect and maintain their organization’s reputation, and make informed and strategic decisions about complex matters such as benefits.

The MLS in Human Resources prepares HR professionals to understand the legal frameworks behind the regulations of this industry, covering topics like employment law for managers, compensation and benefits, paying for health care, and more.

I love working in human resources. I saw that Wake Forest offered this MLS program, and it really was like the clouds opened and immediately I thought, this is exactly what I’m looking for.

– Nicole Murphy

Master of Legal Studies Alum

Course Structure

The 30-credit MLS in Human Resources track includes:

13.5 credits in our required core curriculum
10.5+ credits in Human Resources track courses
Up to 6 credits from any other electives across tracks

Who Is This Track For?

The Human Resources track supports a variety of human resources and employee relations professionals, including:

Human resource directors and managers
Benefits and compensation managers or administrators
Talent acquisition and recruitment directors or managers
Employee relations and HR generalists
Business owners and managers
Consultants and advisors
Policymakers and advocates

Request Information

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To download a program brochure and learn more about the online Master of Legal Studies at the Wake Forest University School of Law, please fill out the form. You can also get in touch with an enrollment specialist directly by calling us at 336.863.8438.

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Industry Market Insights

The human resources field can shape workplace strategy and support organizational success. HR professionals benefit from skill development that enhances leadership, team effectiveness, and career mobility.

growth

Employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 6% until 2032 (faster than the average for all occupations), with about 78,700 openings each year.¹

team

60% of HR leaders say developing their management team’s effectiveness is a part of their strategy to improve the future of their work in 2024.²

briefcase

74% of US HR employees were actively seeking or open to new job opportunities in the next 6-12 months.³

Sources: ¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics

² Forbes

³ “State of People Strategy Report”

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a Master of Legal Studies in Human Resources?

A Master of Legal Studies in Human Resources equips you to work as an HR legal specialist, compliance officer, or employment law consultant, helping organizations navigate complex workplace regulations, discrimination laws, and labor relations.

This MLS track is particularly beneficial for roles in corporate HR departments, law firms specializing in employment law, or consulting firms that advise businesses on HR legal matters. This specialized degree also opens doors to positions in government agencies focused on labor standards, union relations, or workplace safety compliance.

How does an MLS in Human Resources compare to an MBA in Human Resources?

A Master of Legal Studies (MLS) in Human Resources focuses specifically on the legal aspects of employment and workplace law, including compliance with labor regulations, employment discrimination laws, workplace safety requirements, and employee rights protections. An MBA in Human Resources emphasizes strategic business management of human capital, including talent acquisition, organizational development, compensation strategy, and HR analytics.

In terms of career outcomes, the MLS prepares graduates for specialized roles in HR compliance, employment law consulting, labor relations, and risk management, whereas the MBA targets senior HR leadership positions such as Chief Human Resources Officer, HR director roles, and strategic workforce planning positions.

While both degrees enhance HR careers, the MLS provides deep expertise in navigating complex employment laws and regulatory compliance, while the MBA offers the strategic business skills needed to align human resources with organizational objectives and lead HR functions at the executive level.

Ready to learn more?

Download our program brochure, and explore our curriculum, admissions, and FAQ pages.