Admissions & Aid

Program Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Master of Legal Science (MLS) program at the University of Pikeville are designed to ensure that students entering the program possess the foundational academic and professional qualifications necessary to succeed in a rigorous, interdisciplinary legal curriculum. These criteria, including the requirement of a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, and relevant professional experience, are used to assess an applicant’s readiness for graduate study, their ability to contribute meaningfully to class discussions, and their potential to apply legal principles in various fields. Including a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and, where applicable, an interview helps the admissions committee evaluate an applicant’s motivation, leadership potential, and long-term goals. These requirements aim to select academically capable, professional candidates oriented and driven to apply legal knowledge in diverse, real-world contexts. By maintaining these standards, the program ensures that each cohort of students is well-prepared to excel and make meaningful contributions to their respective fields.

1. Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Degrees from any field of study are accepted, although applicants with backgrounds in business, healthcare, criminal justice, environmental studies, and other related fields may find the program particularly relevant.

2. Academic Performance: Applicants are required to submit their official transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale is required. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered for admission based on other aspects of their application, including work experience, personal statement, and recommendations.

3. International Applicants: International applicants and U.S. citizen and permanent resident applicants with an international degree must submit copies of academic documents such as a transcript, diploma, mark sheets, provisional degree certificate and/or your final degree certificate. Applicants who have earned a three-year baccalaureate degree are eligible to apply for admission to the UPIKE MLS program. The applicant’s cumulative GPA will be used as a part of the admission committee’s review for competitiveness for admission.

4. GRE/GMAT: The requirement of passing a GMAT or GRE will be waived if the following conditions are met: (1)If a student has earned a bachelor’s degree from regionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75, or (2) if the student has earned a master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0, and/or (3) the student has two years of related work experience within the criminal justice system or other related disciplines.

5. Professional Experience: While not mandatory, applicants with relevant professional experience will be given preference. Experience in law, business, compliance, healthcare, criminal justice, and public policy is particularly valued.

6. Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a one-page personal statement (500 to 700 words) that outlines their professional and academic goals, explains their interest in legal studies, details how the MLS program will help them achieve them, and discuss their reasoning or passion for pursuing such a degree. This statement provides insight into the applicant’s motivation, leadership potential, and fit for the program and should be in the following format: (1) cover page, (2) no more than one page in length, (3) double-spaced, and (4) typed using Times New Roman 12-pt font.

7. Letters of Recommendation: Two professional letters of recommendation are required.

These should come from supervisors, professors, or colleagues who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities, professional accomplishments, and potential for success in a graduate-level legal program.

8. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current resume or CV must be submitted detailing relevant professional experience, educational background, certifications, and any other qualifications that demonstrate the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.

9. Interview (Optional): At the discretion of the admissions committee, applicants may be invited for an interview further to assess their qualifications and fit for the program.

Additional Requirements for International Applicants:

I. English Proficiency: Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or other acceptable standardized tests unless they have earned a degree from an accredited institution where English is the primary language of instruction.

i. The minimum score levels required for MLS program at the University of Pikeville:

• Duolingo English Test
  • Minimum score: 100
• International English Language Testing System, Academic (IELTS)
  • Minimum score: 6.5 with no band less than 5.0
• Test of English as a Foreign Language iBT (Internet-based test)
  • Minimum score: 79
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT (including the Home Edition and Paper Edition)
  • Minimum score: 550/79

Official test scores must be delivered directly from the testing agency and must be less than two years old at the time of admission. A minimum score is required for regular admission as a graduate student.

Note: The TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/Duolingo is not required if you are a permanent resident, or you received a Baccalaureate degree or higher from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university in the United States.

Applications, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work should be sent to:

M.S. in Legal Studies Admissions
University of Pikeville
147 Sycamore Street
Pikeville, KY 41501

Email: wewantyou@upike.edu

International Applicants

Student visas cannot be issued to international applicants. If you have questions or continued interest, please email us at wewantyou@upike.edu.

Technology Requirements

Due to the online format of this program, students will need reliable access to the internet.

Tuition & Aid

The UPIKE MLS program is priced affordably to allow students with a busy schedule to complete their degree.

Hours: 30

After you’ve completed the application process, apply for financial aid by completing the FAFSA. UPIKE’s code is: 001980. Click the button below to view the full Cost of Attendance information: