Dear Prospective Student,

On behalf of the Department of Criminology, Law and Society at UCI, thank you very much for your interest in our Master of Advanced Study (MAS) program. Pursuing a graduate degree involves serious decisions regarding the exact area of study, prestige of the program and faculty, quality of instruction, cost, convenience, and general student support issues. There are many excellent programs available, but let me assure you that the MAS in Criminology, Law and Society offers both an absolutely first-rate and one-of-a-kind experience. Beginning with the one-week on-campus seminar that will serve to jumpstart your education, through attending UCI’s official graduation ceremony at the end of your studies, we have designed a graduate degree program for those who desire to interact with faculty and students from a nationally-ranked department at the top public university system in the world and who also want the convenience of completing their course of study online.

As a graduate program within the University of California system, our standards are high and our curriculum -- developed and delivered by our faculty -- is challenging. The MAS degree is specifically designed to meet the needs of both working professionals and traditional students by providing the educational access and flexibility offered by an online format. It is also suited to meet the goals of individuals who are seeking leadership positions within their organizations in a variety of fields including but not limited to criminal justice, security, social services, public administration, and legal services. In keeping with the major principles of the School of Social Ecology at UCI, the curriculum emphasizes both theoretical and practical applications and an interdisciplinary approach that serves not only as excellent pathways to career advancement, but also provides a solid foundation from which to pursue doctoral study in related fields. MAS graduates have been highly successful in accomplishing both.

Again, thank you very much for your interest in the MAS degree program in Criminology, Law and Society. Please don’t hesitate to contact our Assistant Director, Adrianna Lopez should you desire any additional information.

Sincerely,

Henry N. Pontell
Professor and Director
MAS Program
Department of Criminology, Law and Society
School of Social Ecology
University of California, Irvine