At the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, policy is not abstract. It is active, contested, and consequential. Students learn to navigate and shape the forces driving security, economics, and global affairs.
Discover the Schar School of Policy and Government
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's
Master's Degree Programs
- Biodefense, MS (on-campus and online formats)
- Global Commerce and Policy, MA (on-campus and online formats)
- International Security, MA (on-campus and online formats)
- National Security and Public Policy Cohort Program
- Organization Development and Knowledge Management, MS (on-campus and online formats)
- Political Science, MA
- Public Administration, MPA (on-campus and online formats)
- Public Policy, MPP (on-campus and online formats)
Graduate Certificate Programs
- Biodefense Certificate
- Emergency Management and Homeland Security Certificate
- Global Economic Policy Certificate
- Global Health and Security Certificate
- Illicit Trade Analysis Certificate
- National Security and Public Policy Certificate
- Nonprofit Management Certificate
- Public Management Certificate
- Science, Technology, and Security Certificate
- Terrorism and Homeland Security Certificate
PhD Programs
Study Where Policy Happens
Graduate students study at Mason Square in the heart of Arlington, with select master’s and certificate programs offered in online and hybrid formats. For those living and working across the D.C. region, our convenient location and flexible options are built to fit your life.
Undergraduate students learn on George Mason’s Fairfax campus, enjoying a more traditional college experience with easy access to the internships, jobs, and connections of the D.C. region.
Where Policy Meets Practice
The Schar School prepares students for impactful careers in public service, national security, international affairs, and policy analysis. Our faculty pair academic excellence with real-world experience to develop leaders for a complex policy environment. The School is especially recognized for its strengths in security and economic statecraft, with expertise in intelligence, defense, trade, illicit finance, and policy response. Beyond the classroom, the Schar School conducts influential research and partners across sectors to inform policy and advance the public good.
