Policy shapes every sector—from health care and education to technology, transportation, and business. At the Schar School, we teach skills valued by employers across industries including data analysis, strategic communication, and international and domestic policy. Public impact careers are wide ranging—Schar School graduates apply their degrees across in government, nonprofits, and the private sector.
Looking to Upskill or Retool?
The Schar School offers master’s, graduate certificate and nondegree coursework to help you gain the skills you need. Our programs are affordable, adaptable, and convenient—we’re ready to support your next step.
Application Fee Waiver Available
The Schar School is offering application fee waivers for to our master’s, certificate and nondegree programs for current or recent federal employees, government contractors, as well as those from organizations impacted by recent changes in the regional workforce for fall 2025. We also waive the application fee for active duty military, veterans, and dependents.
The Schar School is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable, and we are consistently one of the most affordable options in the region. Our programs offer merit-based scholarships specifically for graduate students.
D.C. and Maryland Pricing Discount
Master's or certificate students who reside in Washington, D.C., and Maryland can qualify for a tuition rate is equivalent to the in-state rate! More information on this Regional Pricing Policy can be found here.
Customizable and Adaptable Degrees
At the Schar School, flexibility is built into everything we offer- because we know that your career, goals and schedule aren’t one-size-fits-all. Our programs are designed to adapt with you, offering you the freedom to shape your experience with electives and concentrations tailored to your goals.
Part-time or Full-time, Online or In-Person
Choose from online, in-person, or a combination of the two formats! Whether you’ll be a full-time student looking to get a program done within two years, or will be balancing coursework with full-time employment, our programs allow you to accelerate or decelerate your studies based on your needs.
Located in the Washington, D.C. Area
The Schar School is located at the heart of where policy happens—just 3 miles from the Pentagon, 4 miles from The White House, and 6 miles from the U.S. Capitol Building. Students are connected to jobs, internships, networking, and experiences that can only be found in the Washington, D.C., area.
Mason Square is easily accessible from the Virginia Square-GMU metro station on the Orange and Silver lines.
Online coursework is offered in synchronous or asynchronous formats depending on the program/class. Classes are held in the evening to accommodate working professionals.
Considering a career next step outside of the federal government?
Our graduates are employed across a wide range of organizations including:
- Accenture
- Arlington County Government
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Deloitte Consulting
- Fannie Mae
- IBM
- International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- Leidos
- Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory
- Northrop Grumman
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
- Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC)
- The Geneva Foundation
- Vanguard Communications
- World Bank
Learn About Our Students' Career Pathways
At the Schar School, our graduate students come from a wide range of industries and backgrounds—from public service and nonprofits to consulting, health care, and technology. They exemplify the breadth of our student body and the many career paths a policy education can support.
Interested in hearing directly from those who’ve been in your shoes? Meet our Graduate Student Ambassadors—current students who can share their experiences and answer your questions about life at the Schar School.
Get Your Resume Reviewed
Actively applying for new roles or want to have your resume ready? The Schar School career development team is offering short resume reviews to those in or preparing for career transition in the policy community. Submit the resume review form and receive feedback to help you in your search now.
Biodefense, MS
Equip yourself with the analytical expertise to assess and mitigate national and international security risks from biological threats—whether natural or man-made. This program is ideal for current or aspiring professionals in defense, intelligence, and emergency management.
Global Commerce and Policy, MA
Designed for professionals navigating the intersection of business, economics, international relations, and public policy, this program offers a broader perspective than an MBA while maintaining a policy-driven focus. Ideal for those interested in international trade, economic policy, or regulatory affairs.
Learn more about the Global Commerce and Policy, MA program.
International Security, MA
Develop the skills to analyze and manage both traditional and emerging security threats of the 21st century. Whether you work in defense, intelligence, homeland security, or foreign policy, this program provides the critical insights needed to safeguard national and global stability.
Organization Development & Knowledge Management, MS
Enhance your leadership and problem-solving abilities to drive transformation in government and public-sector organizations. This program prepares professionals to manage change, improve organizational effectiveness, and leverage knowledge management strategies in complex environments.
Learn more about the Organization Development & Knowledge Management, MS program.
Political Science, MA
Advance your expertise in American politics, comparative politics, and international relations with a research-focused approach. Ideal for those seeking deeper insights into political systems, policy analysis, and global governance.
Public Administration, MPA
Strengthen your leadership, management, and policy-making skills in public service. With optional concentrations in emergency management, nonprofit leadership, and public finance, this program is ideal for current or former federal employees looking to enhance their impact in government operations and policy implementation.
Public Policy, MPP
Equip yourself with the analytical skills needed to shape effective public policies that address today’s critical challenges, including terrorism, human trafficking, environmental risks, and economic disparities. Designed for professionals in government, policymaking, and advocacy roles.
Graduate Certificate Programs
The Schar School offers 11 graduate certificate programs allowing students gaining specialized education in their area of interest. Each certificate program includes five courses for a total of 15 credits. Part-time and full-time study is available, and students typically complete the certificate in one to one-and-a-half years. Learn more about.
U.S. News & World Report, 2025 Best Graduate Schools
- No. 4 in Homeland Security (Best in Virginia)
- No. 13 in Nonprofit Management (Best in Virginia)
- No. 24 in Public Finance (Best in Virginia)
- No. 34 in Public Policy Analysis
- No. 36 Overall Among Public Affairs Institutions
Connect Directly with Our Graduate Admissions Team
Schedule a one-on-one appointment with a member of the graduate admissions team for an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your academic and professional goals, and learn more about our degree programs and admissions process.
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