Public Administration, BS

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Become A World-Class Leader

Major in Public Administration

As a student at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government, you will tackle real-world problems in engaging classes led by world-class faculty. The curriculum of the Bachelor of Science in Public Administration is designed with tomorrow in mind, providing you with the in-demand knowledge and expertise to lead change.

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    Joseph Fernando wearing a suit and standing in front of the U.S. Capitol

    “It was a huge turning point for me when I transferred [to Mason]. I got appointed as a student senator and started to grow more relationships with my professors. I started growing and getting more experience.”

    Joseph Fernando
    Caseworker, Office of U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner
    Bachelor of Science in Public Administration '20

     

    As a student majoring in Public Administration you are required to complete 52 credits, which include eight core credits and a senior seminar. Additionally, you can deepen your knowledge through one of the following optional concentrations:

    • Administration and Management
    • Economic Policy Analysis
    • International Political Economy
    • Nonprofit Management
    • Public Policy
    • US Government Institutions
    • Individualized Concentration (where you may create your own concentration, with approval from your department)
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    Connect with Accomplished Faculty

    Our faculty’s passion for public service and policymaking matches that of our students. They are scholars in the disciplines of policy, government, and international affairs who seek to make a difference and serve. So much so, that they often refer to themselves as “pracademics,” scholars who connect learning with practice, provide council and commonsense for Washington, D.C., policymakers, and prepare their students to be successful leaders. We call that impact-driven scholarship.


    Where Our Recent Graduates Work


    A pie chart depicting where the Schar School's recent BS in Public Administration graduates are working.

    Data gathered from recent graduates from from 2017-21

    Top Internships for Students


    One of the best ways to find a job after graduation is to complete an internship that will offer you real-world experience and the chance to build a professional network. Schar School students intern at a variety of places, including:

    • Capitol Hill legislative offices
    • Executive Office of the President of the United States
    • Fairfax County Government
    • Partnership for Public Service
    • The U.S. Senate

    You can earn up to six academic credits of internship toward your degree.

    Top Employers of Recent Graduates


    Our public administration graduates are hired by some of the most prestigious companies, nonprofits, and government agencies in Washington, D.C., and beyond, including:

    • U.S. Department of State
    • U.S. Marine Corps
    • Loudoun County Circuit Court
    • FedBid, Inc.

    Fund Your Degree

    The Schar Scholars program provides financial assistance to freshmen who are interested in government, political science, international relations, public policy, pre-law, and public administration. George Mason University also offers a wide range of additional aid, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study employment.

    Get the Student Support You Need

    There are so many opportunities to explore at the Schar School, and you don’t have to remember it all!

    We have a drop-in Schar School advising center where you can find a team of 3 professional advisors, 4 peer advisors who are Schar School juniors or seniors, and success coaches. The team is ready to identify your goals and make a plan for reaching them.

    Whether you're looking for a residential learning community for your first year at Mason, hoping to develop your research skills, ready to tackle a global policy issue, or preparing for a career in law, you can benefit from one of our four Schar School learning communities. 

    Get in Touch

    Prospective students and their families can get to know the Schar School by setting up an informational appointment with the Schar School undergraduate recruitment team. 

    Visit in person in 333 Aquia Building on the Fairfax campus, or set up a time to talk by phone or Zoom. Reach out to ScharUAA@gmu.edu or 703-993-6564 to schedule a conversation.

    BS in Public Administration Latest News