MA in Criminology, Law and Society in Fairfax United States | George Mason University

Openings remain for Fall 2024 enrollment, with applications due by May 1, 2024.
The Master of Arts in Criminology, Law and Society equips students with research expertise to influence justice systems, legal frameworks, and crime policies while contributing to social science. Our globally recognized Department specializes in practical studies of policing, judicial systems, and rehabilitation, focusing on institutional reform, community collaborations, geographic crime patterns, reoffending reduction, and equity. Students develop advanced capabilities in research methods and statistical analysis while mastering contemporary criminological theories, which they implement through original thesis research. This program readies graduates for doctoral studies or research-focused careers within law enforcement, judicial systems, correctional facilities, government bodies, and advocacy groups.

Our elite program leverages the university's strategic location near numerous federal, state, and local justice institutions in the Capital Region. It combines academic rigor with practical implementation, featuring close collaboration between faculty and justice sector leaders who guest lecture, participate in classes, and offer research projects. Through partnerships with scholars, professionals, and justice organizations, students learn to produce groundbreaking research that enhances fairness and efficiency within legal systems.