Academic FAQs
Is this program accredited?
Both the Online MLS in Corporate Compliance program and Santa Clara University are regionally accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
What is the typical workload for this program?
For every hour spent in class per week, students should expect to spend approximately two hours on readings and independent coursework.
Are there any on-campus requirements during the program?
Santa Clara Law students are always welcome to visit campus. However, coursework for the Online MLS in Corporate Compliance is completed entirely online, without any required residencies. This approach helps to ensure that students can enroll in and successfully complete the program from anywhere in the world and in accordance with what their full-time schedules allow.
Will there be hosted networking events to introduce students to Silicon Valley business leaders?
While there are no events tied specifically to the Online MLS program, online students are welcome to visit campus at any time and are invited to participate in all events for students hosted by the School of Law and Santa Clara University. Visit the Santa Clara Law News & Events page to stay informed of upcoming opportunities on campus and in the Bay Area.
Will I be able to add any kind of credential to my resume after completing this program?
Students of the Online MLS may have the opportunity to become a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) through the Compliance Certification Board. Additionally, the MLS itself is a professional degree that indicates successful completion of a graduate-level program and the mastery of its associated knowledge and skills.
What is required to complete the program and graduate?
The Online MLS in Corporate Compliance is designed to be a one-year, part-time program available to working professionals who do not wish to practice law, but for whom a legal background is beneficial. Those seeking the degree must meet the following requirements to complete the program:
- Successfully complete 36 quarter hours of class credit
- Maintain a cumulative GPA that places the student in good academic standing
- Complete required courses of study
- Have no pending question of academic dishonesty or moral turpitude that would preclude granting of the degree
- File a completed petition to graduate with the Online Legal Programs office
How will my work be assessed during the program?
Each professor will evaluate students according to their participation in individual course assignments and discussions, quality of projects and content submitted, and performance on applicable tests and/or quizzes.
Are there compliance-related professional networks that I should join during or after this program?
Yes. Santa Clara Law highly recommends that students join the Society for Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE); their student membership rate is available to students in the Online MLS in Corporate Compliance program.
Other organizations that students may consider include:
- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- International Compliance Professionals Association
- International Association of Risk and Compliance Professionals (IARCP)
- American Contract Compliance Association (for contract compliance)
How will I contact my professor if I have questions about coursework or a grade?
Individual professors will provide preferred contact information in their respective syllabi, and will also indicate standard time(s) of availability.
How long will it take me to complete this degree?
Based on the completion of three courses totaling nine units per quarter, students can complete the Online MLS in Corporate Compliance in as little as 12 months.
