For Amy Smith, a career coach at Southwestern Oregon Community College and part-time business professor at Maryville University, the path to furthering her career wasn’t straightforward. After pursuing a doctoral program in business administration, she found herself at a crossroads. “I wasn’t making progress on my dissertation,” Amy recalls. “I’m better with numbers than with wording at times, and after some reflection, I realized I might not be on the right academic path.”
That reflection led her to explore legal studies. Amy discovered Seattle University’s online Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program with an emphasis in Compliance and Risk Management, which combined the flexibility she needed with the opportunity to deepen her expertise in compliance, policy, and risk management.
Discovering a Program That Fit
In June 2024, Amy left her doctoral program and began researching MLS programs online, focusing on the Pacific Northwest. Seattle University quickly stood out for its comprehensive curriculum, strong alumni network, and the collaborative, supportive environment of its student cohorts.
“What really drew me in was the student engagement and support,” Amy explains. “There were opportunities to grow not only during the program but after graduation as well. I liked how faculty and advisors were accessible and proactive in helping students connect with each other and with resources.” Within a month of reaching out to her advisor, Amy was accepted and began the program that September.
Engaging Courses That Make a Difference
Amy’s coursework has already had a meaningful impact on her understanding of compliance and risk management. One standout class has been Compliance and Auditing, taught by Professor Julie DiMauro. “I liked seeing behind the scenes; how problems or oversights happen, and how to problem-solve,” she says. “We learned every step along the way, from analyzing current policies to creating a policy handbook and memoranda. It really helped me understand the process from a practical perspective.”
She also found the Introduction to Law course valuable for providing foundational knowledge that supports her other coursework. These classes reinforced Amy’s choice of the compliance and risk management concentration and gave her tangible skills she could apply immediately in her professional life.
Real-World Applications
The MLS program has not only expanded Amy’s knowledge but also enhanced her career. In her role as a career coach working with Oregon’s STEP grant program, she applies the skills she’s learning in real time. “We have to ensure that both our office and our students follow the rules, which change from time to time,” she explains. “Knowing the sections of the grant and understanding the policies helps me guide students without sounding like a walking rulebook.”
Amy emphasizes that the program equips students with skills in organization, professional communication, and policy analysis. “It’s taught me to cross-check policies, track updates in federal and state laws, and evaluate whether workplace practices remain compliant. If something’s missing or outdated, I know how to address it,” she says.
Designed to Maximize Student Success
Seattle University crafted its courses to provide students with the flexibility to manage other professional and personal commitments while also facilitating regular and substantial interaction. Most are offered on a semester-long basis with specific groups of assignments, lectures, discussion, and exercises; each group is called a “module.” Within the modules, students do not necessarily need to be online at the same time, and will have the flexibility to complete module activities at a time convenient to their schedules, as long as they complete the activities by the assigned deadline.
Amy appreciated the structure, as well as the user-friendly online learning environment. “Canvas is easy to navigate, and there’s great technical support. The program is set up to minimize unnecessary clicks, and advisors are always available to help if needed.”
Building Community Online
A common concern for online learners is feeling isolated, but Amy’s experience has been quite the opposite. “Collaboration has been wonderful,” she says. “Through discussion boards and group activities, I dive into policies, share findings, and learn from peers. Sometimes other students find citations or perspectives I missed, and we collaborate beyond the classroom as well.”
Amy notes that the program’s engagement extends beyond coursework. “It’s not just posts or assignments. It’s feedback, Zoom meetings, and email communication. I feel like a part of the classroom and the broader learning community.”
Advice for Prospective Students
Amy encourages those considering the program to take the leap. “You never know until you try,” she says. She suggests setting up informational interviews with advisors, students, or alumni, asking questions about the program, and thinking carefully about long-term goals.
For those already enrolled, she recommends getting an early start in Canvas to preview the course structure and reaching out proactively to faculty. “Send a quick introduction email, schedule a Zoom appointment, and ask questions about topics that interest you. Being proactive really makes a difference.”
What the MLS Means to Amy
Amy describes the program in three words: rigorous, competitive, and valuable. Earning her MLS represents not just a credential, but a pathway to growth and impact. “It means I can move forward in my career and help others do the same,” she explains. “It’s about knowing the laws and policies and making sure workplace practices meet standards, not just by the book, but effectively in practice. Maintaining compliance, preparing for audits, and improving work performance are all part of the skills I’ve gained.”
She also points to the flexibility of the online program and the opportunity to connect with faculty, alumni, and fellow students as key benefits. “I study at home or at coffee shops, and even though I’m in Oregon and not Seattle, I feel connected to the campus community. The network of people you meet through this program is invaluable.”
Looking Ahead
Amy expects to graduate in August 2026 with her capstone, and she sees the MLS as a stepping stone toward even greater opportunities. “I’ve always been good with rules, policies, and numbers,” she says. “I wouldn’t be surprised if I pursued a JD in the future. For now, I’m focused on making the most of what I’m learning and seeing where it takes me.”
Reflecting on her decision to join the program, she shares: “I looked for a program that was convenient, connected, and offered real engagement with faculty and peers. Seattle University exceeded my expectations. It’s rigorous, supportive, and designed to help students succeed.”
