Charis Kubrin (far left, second row) and Amanda Geller (bottom, right), co-directors of the university’s top-ranked online M.A.S. program in the subject, flank the newest cohort of M.A.S. students.
M.A.S. program secures ninth straight top-three finish
For the ninth year running, the University of California, Irvine's Master of Advanced Study in criminology, law and society has earned a spot among the nation's elite online criminal justice programs, placing second in U.S. News & World Report's 2026 rankings.
The consistent recognition underscores the program's unwavering commitment to preparing the next generation of criminal justice leaders through rigorous online education.
"This sustained excellence doesn't happen by accident," said Jon Gould, dean of UC Irvine's School of Social Ecology. "Year after year, our faculty push the boundaries of what online education can achieve, while our staff ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed. This ranking reflects their tireless commitment to our students and to advancing the field of criminology."
The M.A.S. program has become a pipeline for leadership across the criminal justice landscape, producing graduates who serve as police chiefs, federal investigators, judges and policy makers throughout the country.
"What makes this program special is the caliber of students we attract and the community they build together," said Charis E. Kubrin, M.A.S. co-director and professor of criminology, law and society. "They come to us with diverse experiences and leave equipped to drive meaningful change in their communities."
Co-director Amanda Geller added: "Maintaining this level of excellence for nearly a decade speaks volumes about the program's foundation. We're proud to offer an online experience that rivals traditional on-campus programs."
As a pioneer in distance education, UCI's M.A.S. in criminology, law and society holds the distinction of being the first online degree offered across the entire University of California system when it launched more than two decades ago.
The program serves professionals seeking to advance into leadership roles across corrections, law enforcement, social services, probation and parole, forensic psychology and public administration. Its flexible online format allows working professionals to earn their degree while maintaining their careers.
U.S. News & World Report evaluates online programs based on five key metrics: engagement, faculty credentials and training, services and technology, expert opinion, and student excellence—categories in which the UCI program consistently excels.
To date, more than 650 graduates have completed the M.A.S. program, with many pursuing doctoral studies, law degrees, or senior positions in criminal justice and related fields. There are 77 students currently enrolled in the program.
The program claimed the nation's No. 2 spot for the first time in 2019 and again last year after spending 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 in the No. 1 spot. It was ranked third best in 2018.
— Mimi Ko Cruz