Program Overview

The Master of Advanced Study (M.A.S.) in Criminology, Law and Society, the first online degree program at the University of California, prepares professionals for leadership positions in criminal justice and the legal professions. The curriculum emphasizes theoretical and practical applications central to crime and its control, social policy, and the law. In keeping with one of the main tenets of the School of Social Ecology, students approach topics from a multidisciplinary perspective.

This program is ideally suited for professionals interested in obtaining positions in or currently working in the criminal justice or legal fields and who are seeking a graduate degree for career advancement. The program they need while working full-time.   The program consists of 52 units of course work which is completed sequentially in two years (6 quarters).  An optional one-week in-residence introductory course is scheduled right before fall quarter. In lieu of a thesis, students are required to take a capstone course, "Social Problems, Law and Policy," in the winter quarter of the second year of study. In addition to the capstone course, students take two other required courses (CRM/LAW C214: Research Methods and CRM/LAW C215: Statistics) and choose from elective courses to fulfill the remaining 40 units. The M.A.S. is awarded upon completion of 13 courses (52 units).  Commencement occurs once each year in June.