Environmental Law and Sustainability, M.S.L.
This 30-hour masters is an extension of the law school's ongoing, 18-hour Environmental Law and Sustainability certificate program. Designed for environmental managers, corporate executives, scientists, developers, and environmental advocates--to name a few professions--seeking to increase their knowledge of environmental regulation, impacts, of sustainability strategies. Indeed, mitigation of environmental risk to employers and communities, the ability to navigate the complex and evolving world of environmental compliance, and knowledge of advanced energy generation and storage systems is a field expected to see above average growth the next decade according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Students will gain an advanced understanding of environmental and energy systems, applicable laws and regulations in the United States, and legal risks inherent to the field in order to meet the great opportunities that are transforming major economic sectors and populations around the world.
The current curriculum for the certificate program will comprise the first 18 hours of the new masters degree. Students will take 12 additional hours of required and elective courses to complete the master's curriculum.
Learning Outcomes
- To impart knowledge and an advanced understanding of applicable laws and regulations relating to environmental and energy systems to apply within a position of significant responsibility for a corporate, governmental, or advocacy organization.
- To understand the role of law in complex environmental, energy and climate issues.
- To develop an understanding of the science of climate change and carbon reduction.
- To provide skills and knowledge to work to reduce environmental footprints while obtaining economic efficiencies.
- To understand the legal risks inherent to the field to meet the opportunities that are transforming major economic sectors and populations around the world.
- To develop skills necessary to assist in compliance with the growing environmental legal and regulatory requirements.
- To understand the dynamic environmental and energy legal requirements and develop the ability to apply learned skills as regulations and market forces continue to change.
Requirements for Admission
- Undergraduate Degree
- Work History
- Recommendation Letters
- Interview
- No LSAT, GRE, or GMAT
Required Courses (30 hours)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| LAWH 700 | Introduction to the Legal System | 3 |
| LAWG 568 | Coastal Law | 3 |
| LAWG 731 | Environmental Law & Policy | 3 |
| LAWG 734 | Climate Change Seminar | 3 |
| LAWG 773 | Environmental Justice Seminar | 3 |
| LAWG 775 | Conservation Law in South Carolina | 3 |
| LAWG 776 | Environmental Compliance and Enforcement | 3 |
| LAWG 826 | Energy Law | 3 |
| LAWG 709 | Administrative Law | 3 |
| LAWH 755 | Directed Independent Study | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 30 | |