M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology, Law and Society program at George Mason University (GMU) offers students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, legal frameworks, and societal responses to crime and deviance. Situated in Fairfax, Virginia, GMU is renowned for its strong academic programs and commitment to interdisciplinary research and education. The B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program provides students with theoretical insights, practical skills, and experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, legal professions, policy analysis, and related fields.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program at GMU is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in criminological theory, criminal law, legal procedures, and social science research methods. Core courses cover topics such as criminal justice systems, criminal behavior, law enforcement, courts and sentencing, victimology, and crime prevention. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas of interest through elective courses, concentrations, or interdisciplinary minors. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills, preparing students for graduate study or careers in fields such as law enforcement, legal advocacy, criminal justice administration, or policy analysis.
Research Focus: GMU's B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program emphasizes research as a fundamental component of understanding crime, justice, and societal responses. Faculty members are engaged in diverse research projects exploring topics such as crime trends, criminal justice policies, policing strategies, victimization patterns, legal reform, and social inequality. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, independent studies, or research assistantships, gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Through research-focused courses and seminars, students develop research skills, methodological expertise, and critical perspectives that prepare them for graduate study or careers in research-oriented fields.
Industry Engagement: GMU's B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program fosters strong connections with criminal justice agencies, legal organizations, and policy institutes to provide students with opportunities for industry engagement and practical experience. Through internships, field placements, or service-learning projects, students apply criminological theories and legal principles to real-world issues and challenges, gaining valuable insights into law enforcement practices, legal procedures, and criminal justice policies. Industry professionals, practitioners, and policymakers often serve as guest speakers, mentors, or collaborators, offering insights into career pathways and opportunities in criminal justice, law, and public policy.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected world, GMU's B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding crime, justice, and social order. Courses incorporate discussions on transnational crime, comparative criminal justice systems, global terrorism, human rights, and international law. Students have the opportunity to explore global trends, cross-cultural perspectives, and international case studies, deepening their understanding of crime and justice in diverse sociocultural contexts. Additionally, GMU welcomes students from diverse cultural backgrounds and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the learning experience and fostering a sense of global citizenship among graduates.
Fairfax, Virginia
IELTS 6.5
USD 38750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: Waiver
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
Students must provide:
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong their chosen area of study.
Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology, Law and Society from George Mason University (GMU) opens up a wide array of career opportunities in various sectors related to criminal justice, law enforcement, legal professions, policy analysis, and social services. Equipped with a solid understanding of criminological theory, legal frameworks, and societal responses to crime, graduates of GMU's B.S. in Criminology, Law and Society program are well-prepared to pursue meaningful and impactful careers.
Law Enforcement Officer: Many graduates choose to pursue careers in law enforcement as police officers, detectives, or special agents. Law enforcement officers work to maintain public safety, enforce laws, investigate crimes, and apprehend suspects. They may work for local, state, or federal agencies, specializing in areas such as patrol, investigations, narcotics, cybercrime, or homeland security. Law enforcement officers collaborate with community members, prosecutors, and other criminal justice professionals to prevent and solve crimes and ensure justice is served.
Legal Assistant/Paralegal: Graduates may pursue careers as legal assistants or paralegals, providing support to attorneys, law firms, or legal departments in various capacities. Legal assistants assist with legal research, document preparation, case management, and client communication, helping to ensure the efficient operation of legal practices and the delivery of quality legal services. They may work in law offices, corporate legal departments, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations, contributing to the administration of justice and the protection of legal rights.
Policy Analyst/Researcher: For those interested in influencing public policy and social change, careers as policy analysts or researchers offer opportunities to conduct research, analyze data, and develop evidence-based policy recommendations on criminal justice issues. Policy analysts work for government agencies, think tanks, research institutes, or advocacy organizations, evaluating existing policies, identifying emerging trends, and proposing policy reforms to address issues such as crime prevention, policing strategies, sentencing practices, or reentry programs. They collaborate with policymakers, stakeholders, and community members to advocate for policy changes that promote justice, equity, and public safety.
Probation/Parole Officer: Graduates may pursue careers as probation or parole officers, working with individuals who have been convicted of crimes and placed under community supervision. Probation officers monitor and support individuals serving probation sentences, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions and providing referrals to social services, treatment programs, or educational resources. Parole officers oversee individuals released from prison on parole, helping them reintegrate into society, adhere to parole conditions, and avoid recidivism. Probation and parole officers work collaboratively with clients, treatment providers, and community resources to facilitate rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Victim Advocate/Support Specialist: Many graduates choose to work as victim advocates or support specialists, providing assistance and support to individuals who have been victims of crime or trauma. Victim advocates work for nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or law enforcement agencies, offering emotional support, crisis intervention, and practical assistance to victims of crime, domestic violence, or other traumatic events. They may provide information about victims' rights, accompany victims to court proceedings, connect them with community resources, and facilitate access to legal or counseling services, empowering victims to navigate the criminal justice system and rebuild their lives.