2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

Criminology, Law and Society, BS


Banner Code: LA-BS-CLS

Web: cls.gmu.edu

This bachelor of science in criminology, law and society provides a sound foundation in the liberal arts and a focused study of the justice system and social, human, and moral problems raised in the justice field. The course of study prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, the courts, investigations, juvenile justice, private and homeland security, and related social and human services. The program also provides a strong background for law school and graduate study in criminal justice or law and society.

Students may use up to 18 credits of approved ADJ courses taken at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) or comparable courses at another community college to fulfill the requirements detailed below. Once a student matriculates at Mason, no courses may be taken at another institution without prior written approval from the program and the dean.

This program of study is offered by the Department of Criminology, Law and Society  .

For policies governing all undergraduate degrees, see the Academic Policies  chapter of the catalog.

Degree Requirements


Students pursuing a BS in criminology, law and society must satisfy university general education requirements and the requirements for a bachelor of science degree in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences as well as the requirements for all bachelor’s degrees as stated in the Academic Policies chapter of the catalog. Students pursuing this degree must complete 67 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.00.

Twelve elective courses (36 credits) including at least 24 credits of CRIM courses chosen from:


15 credits in skills for the justice professional chosen from:


  • Any foreign language courses that develop or require foreign language skills and are taught in the language
  • Any CS course; any IT course

Total: 67 credits


Concentrations


Criminology, law and society majors have the option of obtaining a concentration by completing 15 of their 36 elective credits within one of the following areas. Credits earned in CRIM 490, 491, 492, and 499, when relevant, may be applied to a concentration with prior written approval of the undergraduate director.

Writing-Intensive Requirement


The university requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their majors at the 300 level or above. Students majoring in criminology, law and society fulfill this requirement by successfully completing CRIM 495. Students should complete ENGH 302 before taking the writing-intensive course in the major or take the two courses simultaneously.