Master of Laws in Taxation

SMU’s School of Law established graduate degree programs more than 50 years ago to enhance careers in the private practice of law, in teaching and in public service by providing the opportunity for graduate level education and training. The programs are designed to increase the student’s understanding of legal theory and policies, broaden the student’s legal horizons and encourage the development of legal research and writing skills. The Master of Laws degree programs are open to lawyers who are graduates of approved law schools and whose academic and professional records indicate a likelihood of successful graduate legal study.  It focuses not only on technical mastery of the tax laws but also on wider issues of tax and fiscal policy. Most of the courses in the curriculum provide survey-level instruction in subjects typically not addressed in J.D.-level tax courses. In addition, advanced courses develop in-depth, practice-oriented expertise. Courses are taught by Dedman School of Law faculty and by adjunct professors and lecturers who are experienced, practicing tax specialists in Dallas area law firms and corporate law departments.