Northern Virginia Local Government Cohort

The Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University offers a cohort-based path for its BS in Public Administration program. The curriculum is rooted in policy analysis and economics, offering current public servants the knowledge and expertise to be leaders and make positive change. This program is open to Northern Virginia local government employees who have completed an associate’s degree. Students in this program can expect “concierge”-style academic advising, working with a dedicated advisor to ensure a timely degree completion. Generally, students in this cohort can expect to take one class per term all together.

• Duration: 3+ years, depending on accepted transfer credits and course progression
• Course Load: Generally, two courses each term (fall, spring, summer) customized to the student’s needs
• Class Schedule: We offer classes at 4:30-7:10 PM, 7:20-10:00 PM, and asynchronously both in-person and online modalities (though we cannot guarantee a specific modality for each class)

• Must be a full or part-time merit Northern Virginia local government employee
• Must have completed the first 30 days of employment
• Must complete employer requirements and obtain approval to participate in the 3-year program Consult your HR representative for more information.
• Must apply and be admitted to George Mason University as a transfer student in the B.S. in Public Administration degree program
  • If you are interested in a different degree program, you will not be eligible for this cohort and need to meet with an admissions representative from that program to discuss your academic plan

Note: Spaces are limited in the cohort. Admission to Mason does not guarantee a space in the cohort program. Please register your interest as soon as possible for best consideration and follow the application guidelines below.

• Contact your HR representative for jurisdiction-specific requirements:
  Fairfax County: Brenda.Reigelsperger@fairfaxcounty.gov
  Fauquier County: Lisa.Booth.adm@fauquiercounty.gov
  Loudoun County: Shelly.Clay@loudoun.gov 

• Identify how you should Apply to George Mason University, and apply for Spring 2025. Cohort participants must go through the Mason admissions process, and admission is not guaranteed:

Once you have submitted your application to George Mason, you will need to let us know and so we can add you to the cohort, if admitted. Please submit this form once you have applied.

Tuition: George Mason University’s tuition rates are published annually through the Student Accounts Office website on the Approved Tuition & Fees page.

Scholarship: Applicants are eligible for consideration for a one-time $1,000 Northern Virginia Local Government Scholarship in the third semester.