Overview

The Criminology, Law and Society programme at George Mason University provides an interdisciplinary foundation for students interested in the complexities of the justice system. This degree focuses on the social impact of legal policies and the scientific study of crime and prevention. Students engage with rigorous academic frameworks to understand how law functions within diverse communities.

By choosing this field of study, learners explore the intersection of sociology and legal theory to address contemporary challenges in public safety. The curriculum emphasises critical thinking and empirical research, preparing graduates to evaluate the effectiveness of judicial institutions and law enforcement practices in a modern global context.

Why Criminology, Law and Society at George Mason University?

George Mason University is recognised for its commitment to research-driven education and its proximity to major legal and governmental hubs. This strategic location offers students unique perspectives on policy-making and the practical application of criminological theories. The faculty comprises experts who bring real-world insights into the classroom environment.

The institution provides a vibrant academic community where students can participate in specialised research centres focused on evidence-based crime policy. This environment fosters a deep understanding of how legal systems evolve and the role of social justice in shaping future legislation and community relations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 39312 per year
National fee: USD 39312 per year
Local fee: USD 14316 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad understanding of the legal system and social behaviour. Modules may include:

Criminology
Criminal Law
Social Justice
Research Methods
Judicial Process
Law and Society
Criminal Justice Ethics
Constitutional Law
Sociology of Deviance

Careers with Criminology, Law and Society

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional paths within the public and private sectors. Many pursue roles in law enforcement, crime analysis, and community outreach, focusing on the improvement of safety and legal standards. The analytical skills gained during the programme are highly valued in various administrative and investigative capacities.

Beyond direct entry into the workforce, this degree serves as a strong foundation for further legal education or postgraduate research. Alumni often find success in roles related to probation services, victim advocacy, and policy development, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the justice system and social welfare initiatives.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Criminal Justice Ethics

Research Methods and Analysis in Criminology

Constitutional Law: Criminal Process and Rights

Crime and Crime Policy

Social Inequality, Crime, and Justice

Human Rights and Justice

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

Freshman Priority Application Deadline (for Spring Semester) October 1
Regular Decision Deadline(for Fall Semester) February 1

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Sociology Criminal Law Criminology View 1524 other Bachelors in Sociology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed online application and application fee. Mason accepts the Common Application and George Mason University’s Undergraduate Application for Admission.

Certified official, original transcripts from all secondary schools as well as official results from any leaving certificates or university entrance exams taken. A certified English translation must be submitted for any documents not already in English.

Official scores from SAT or ACT. International students have the option to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application or apply Score Optional.

Secondary School Report (PDF) and counselor recommendations. We suggest sending two (2) letters of recommendation, one from a high school counselor and one from a teacher.

An optional, but strongly encouraged Personal Statement or Essay of approximately 250 words explaining to the Office of Admissions why YOU want to attend university study.

Resume for any applicant with gaps in enrollment.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Out-of-State

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14316 USD / year

≈ 14316 USD / year

Living costs

Fairfax

United States

1330 - 2300 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Criminology, Law and Society.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Fairfax

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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