The MA in Criminology, Law and Society prepares students to conduct high-quality scientific research in the criminal justice field. Students learn cutting-edge social science methods and data analysis skills for advancing knowledge in the social sciences and for making a difference in the development and evaluation of justice policies and practices. The MA in Criminology, Law and Society prepares students to pursue advanced graduate studies at the doctoral level or for positions that require rigorous research skills.
For a related program, see Criminology, Law and Society, PhD
Admissions
Applicants to all graduate programs at George Mason University must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in Graduate Admissions. For information specific to the MA in Criminology, Law and Society, see Application Requirements and Deadlines on the departmental web site.
Policies
For policies governing all graduate degrees, see AP.6 Graduate Policies.
Satisfactory Progress
According to university policy, students may be terminated if they fail to achieve satisfactory progress toward their degree. In addition to the graduate policies on academic termination (see AP.6.6.2), students in the program are judged as having failed to achieve satisfactory progress if they have been found in violation of Academic Standards.
Degree Requirements
Total credits: 30
Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.
Core Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CRIM 710 | Criminological Theory | 3 |
| CRIM 720 | Law and Social Science | 3 |
| CRIM 760 | Evidence-Based Crime Policy | 3 |
| Total Credits | 9 | |
Analytical Methods Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CRIM 780 | Research Methods | 3 |
| CRIM 782 | Statistics I | 3 |
| CRIM 783 | Statistics II | 3 |
| Total Credits | 9 | |
Elective Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select 6 credits of CRIM electives at the 700-level. | 6 | |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Thesis
Students must successfully complete a master's thesis, which demonstrates the ability to conduct independent research. A thesis proposal must be submitted to the graduate director prior to registering for thesis credits. The master's thesis must be defended orally before a committee of three faculty. The committee chair and at least one member must be CLS graduate faculty.
Students must apply 6 credits of thesis to the degree. Students must follow the thesis enrollment policy of the university and once enrolled in CRIM 799 Master's Thesis, maintain continuous enrollment as specified in Academic Policies.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CRIM 799 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Program Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate the ability to plan, execute, and communicate research in the field of criminology, law and society.
- Students will develop core knowledge of justice and criminological theories, and be able to apply them appropriately to relevant issues.
- Students will demonstrate knowledge of criminological theory, criminal justice policy, justice organizations, and the interplay between law and social science.
- Students will produce a thesis of original research representing a significant contribution to the field that demonstrates the ability to apply basic methodological principles.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate scientific ideas and findings effectively in both oral presentations and writing to a wide range of audiences.