MSL in Government Procurement Law
Become a government contracts expert in the world's preeminent government procurement law program.
Program Overview
The MSL in Government Procurement Law is a graduate-level professional degree designed for experienced professionals seeking advanced legal knowledge in government procurement and federal contracting. This MSL program is built for working professionals and does not require a JD for admission. Students explore the legal frameworks governing government contracts, federal acquisition regulations, procurement compliance, and contract administration. Offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format, the program serves professionals in Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond who want to deepen their expertise in government procurement law and the federal acquisition process.
Program at a Glance
24 Credits
1-2 Years
Program Duration
(Full-Time/Part-Time)
Online,
On-Campus, or Hybrid
Format
June 1, 2026
Fall 2026 Application Deadline
$63,600 + fees
Approximate Tuition
What is Government Procurement Law?
Government procurement law governs how public agencies acquire goods, services, and technology through legally compliant contracting processes. Often referred to as government contracts law, this field focuses on the rules, regulations, and procedures that guide federal acquisition and public-sector purchasing. Professionals working in this area must understand how procurement systems operate, how contracts are formed and administered, and how agencies ensure transparency, competition, and regulatory compliance throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
Flexible Format
- Online, on-campus, or hybrid.
- Full-time or part-time.
Use Your Real-World Experience
- No JD Required.
- For professionals with 3+ years of relevant experience.
Gain a Professional Edge
- Build practical skills to navigate federal contracting rules and procurement processes.
- Strengthen your ability to interpret regulations and support compliance in acquisition settings.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum in the government procurement law master’s program provides a comprehensive foundation in federal contracting and acquisition law. Students complete 24 credits, including core coursework focused on government contracts formation, performance, cost and pricing, and procurement compliance. Additional coursework strengthens legal research and analytical writing skills while exploring issues that shape modern procurement systems.
Elective options allow students to deepen their understanding of topics such as bid protests, government procurement of intellectual property, procurement reform, federal appropriations law, and emerging issues in government contracting and technology acquisition.
| Core Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| Introduction to U.S. Law and Legal Writing for MSL Students (6950) | 3 credits |
| Government Contracts Overview (6518) | 1 credit |
| Formation of Government Contracts (6502) | 3 credits |
| Performance of Government Contracts (6503) | 3 credits |
| Government Contracts Cost and Pricing (6506) | 2 credits |
| Analytical Writing for Government Contracts (6519) | 1 credit |
| Anti-corruption and Compliance (6511) | 2 credits |
| Students must also write a research paper completed in a government procurement seminar course or in the graduate independent legal writing course (6696) | |
Elective course options include:
- Bid Protests
- Government Procurement of Intellectual Property
- Intro to Federal Appropriations Law
- Procurement Reform
- Other Transactions
- Government Procurement of Technology
How Long Does the Program Take and How Is It Delivered?
The MSL in Government Procurement Law requires 24 credits and can typically be completed in 1–2 years, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. The program is offered in flexible formats—including fully online, on-campus, and hybrid options—allowing working professionals to pursue graduate study while continuing their careers in government, contracting, or compliance roles.
How Much Does This Degree Cost?
Tuition for the MSL in Government Procurement Law is approximately $63,600, plus applicable university fees. Students complete 24 credits, and tuition is billed per semester based on course enrollment. Additional costs may include university fees and course materials. Prospective students are encouraged to review the most current tuition information and financial aid options available through GW Law.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Government Procurement Law?
The curriculum in the government procurement law master’s program provides a comprehensive foundation in federal contracting and acquisition law. Students complete 24 credits, including core coursework focused on government contracts formation, performance, cost and pricing, and procurement compliance. Additional coursework strengthens legal research and analytical writing skills while exploring issues that shape modern procurement systems.
Elective options allow students to deepen their understanding of topics such as bid protests, government procurement of intellectual property, procurement reform, federal appropriations law, and emerging issues in government contracting and technology acquisition.
Contracts Administrator
Supports contract preparation, documentation, and compliance throughout the acquisition process.
Contracts Manager
Oversees contract lifecycles and ensures compliance with federal acquisition requirements.
Warranted Contracting Officer
Awards and administers federal contracts using delegated procurement authority.
Ready to Advance Your Career in Government Procurement Law?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a JD required for this program?
No. A JD is not required. The MSL in Government Procurement Law is designed for experienced professionals with 3+ years of relevant experience who want legal knowledge without becoming attorneys.
- Can I complete this program online?
Yes. The program is available fully online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. Students may enroll full-time or part-time to accommodate professional responsibilities.
- How long does it take to complete the degree?
The program requires 24 credits and can typically be completed in 1–2 years depending on enrollment status.
- Why study government procurement law in Washington, DC?
Located in Washington, DC, and accessible to professionals across Maryland and Northern Virginia, the program benefits from proximity to federal agencies, courts, and policy institutions shaping government procurement and federal acquisition policy. Students gain access to faculty and professional networks with deep experience in government contracting, providing valuable insight into how procurement law and federal acquisition regulations influence public-sector contracting.
I have used the skills learned at GW almost immediately. I can’t believe how applicable this education has been to my day-to-day job supporting federal procurement.
John McKnight, MSL '25
The Aerospace Corporation
Contact MSL Admissions: msladmissions
law [dot] gwu [dot] edu (msladmissions[at]law[dot]gwu[dot]edu) | 202.994.7242