News
See All- Kosovo Study AbroadPosted September 10
- CLAB creates the Ainsworth Memorial Award for Legal Innovation and ImpactPosted May 1
Embrace the changing practice of law and become a leader in law and business
The Center for Law and Business (C-LAB) is more than just a hub for students headed into traditional corporate law. It’s a launchpad for anyone exploring how law connects to leadership, entrepreneurship, or systemic change. Whether you’re planning to join a firm, grow a nonprofit, manage a business, work in community economic development, or launch something entirely your own, C-LAB is here to support your vision.Our students come from all walks of life: career-changers, first-gen professionals, small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurial thinkers who see a JD as a tool to amplify the work they’re already doing—or the work they want to lead. C-LAB serves students interested not only in business law, but also in compliance, consulting, health law, legal operations, innovation, public interest finance, and community economic development—locally, nationally, and globally.
We offer events and programming throughout the year that are open to all students, regardless of certificate track. From panels on corporate board management and social enterprises, to workshops on financial literacy and legal tech, our goal is to spark ideas and build skills across the full spectrum of business and law.
C-LAB also takes students beyond the classroom—and beyond U.S. borders. Our study abroad programs in places like London and Kosovo allow students (and alumni!) to meet with lawyers, judges, entrepreneurs, and policy leaders while learning about health care systems, financial infrastructure, or economic development in the face of transitional justice issues—in different national contexts.
Students who work more closely with C-LAB through the certificate program receive personalized advising from faculty as well as professionals in the field—including alumni and other leaders—who bring deep, real-world experience across a range of legal-business careers. They help guide students toward both established and emerging opportunities.
At its core, C-LAB is about creating space for interdisciplinary thinking, diverse pathways, and practical preparation. In a world where the lines between legal, business, and civic leadership are increasingly blurred, we prepare students to lead with creativity, agility, and integrity—wherever their path takes them.
The Law and Business Certificate
Mitchell Hamline’s Law and Business Certificate helps students shape a legal education that supports a wide range of goals—from corporate practice and compliance to entrepreneurship, management, policy, and economic development. It also serves students interested in nonprofits and social enterprises, from sophisticated nonprofit finance to community-based real estate development. These opportunities span locally, nationally, and even internationally through our study abroad programs and clinical offerings—supported by customized coursework, advising, and real-world experience.
Law and Business CertificateFireside Chat Series
The Center for Law and Business hosts a dynamic series of Fireside Chats—intimate, conversational events where law students and professionals engage directly with alumni entrepreneurs and business owners. These sessions offer a rare opportunity to hear firsthand stories of success, challenge, and innovation from those navigating the intersection of law and commerce. Whether discussing startup journeys, leadership lessons, or legal strategy in business, each Fireside Chat provides valuable insights and inspiration for the next generation of legal and business professionals.
Private Directors Association CLE Series
The Center for Law and Business is thrilled to partner with the Minnesota Chapter of the Private Directors Association (PDA) to offer CLE-eligible programming designed specifically for practicing attorneys and students interested in privately-held companies.
The Minnesota Chapter of PDA is comprised of directors, executives, owners, and legal professionals; the events include expert-led sessions on emerging board practices and critical governance issues. It’s a space where knowledge is shared, connections are made, and leadership is cultivated. CLAB and PDA co-host events twice a year on MHSL’s campus. Check our news bulletin and social media for recent and upcoming events.
Pursue a joint-degree program with Hamline University
Students interested in combining legal training with business, leadership, and management skills may want to consider the dual J.D./M.B.A. program, offered in partnership with Hamline University’s School of Business. This program allows students to efficiently earn both degrees—saving time, tuition, and expanding their career opportunities across law, business, and nonprofit sectors. To learn more about how the program works, credit requirements, scheduling flexibility, and how it connects to the Law and Business Certificate, visit the FAQ page.
Study law, transitional justice, and economic development in Kosovo this summer
Spend a summer with us studying law, business, and transitional justice in Kosovo at the University of Pristina. Explore economic development, legal reform, and post-conflict reconstruction alongside attorneys, judges, and entrepreneurs from across the region and beyond.
International Comparative Law (Kosovo)
Study law and business in London this summer
Spend a summer with us studying law and business in London at Greenwich University. Gain access to an international community of attorneys working in law and business.
International Comparative Law (London)
London image by E. Dichtl from Pixabay