Accelerate your studies by beginning a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree during your final year as an undergraduate student
The combined degree brings together the B.S. in Criminology, which exposes students to theoretical perspectives and empirical on the social construction of identity, crime, and punishment, with the M.A. in Liberal Studies, where students tailor their graduate study to meet specific areas of interest.
Both degrees provide students with the tools to analyze the structural, cultural and institutional forces that affect the society and culture as they provide graduates with a solid foundation in critical inquiry essential for careers in advocacy, law enforcement, corrections, and legal professions.
Highly qualified candidates will complete the program in five years by accelerating undergraduate coursework, and moving on to graduate study in their fourth year.
Admissions Requirements
Candidates must apply for the program by the end of their Junior year.
- 12 credits of residency at SUNY Old Westbury
- Grade point average of 3.25 overall and 3.25 in courses required for the American Studies B.A. degree
- Transfer students’ GPA must meet Old Westbury’s GPA requirements and transfer courses must be calculated along with Old Westbury grades for admission to this program.
- A completed admissions application that includes:
- An essay
- Two letters of reference from faculty
- All college transcripts
Once admitted to the program, candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.25 (overall, in the AS major; and 3.0 once they enter the MALS program) in each semester of study.
During the undergraduate portion of the degree, candidates must meet the requirements of an American Studies major. Those whose GPA falls below 3.25 will be placed on probation and will have one semester to bring up their grades.
Candidates who fail to complete the five-year program will be administratively transferred into the American Studies major, and will graduate with the B.A. degree when they satisfy its requirements.