4+ Online Programs
Choose from 4 programs offered entirely online, as well as dozens of online elective options
Online Programs
Online Programs
Whether you're interested in taking just a class as a non-degree student or pursuing a graduate certificate or master's program, the online programs at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government offers you the opportunity to take classes from anywhere in the world on a schedule that works for you.
Coronavirus/COVID-19 Notice:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to progams historically offered online, all of the Schar School's programs have transitioned to virtual instruction to ensure the safety of the community. Faculty and staff who normally work on-campus are teleworking and are fully available to support students. Visit Mason's Coronavirus Information page for more information, including affected dates and frequently asked questions. For questions as a prospective student, please don't hesitate to contact the Schar School Office of Graduate Admissions at schar@gmu.edu.
80+ Expert Faculty
Schar School faculty are experts in their fields and, most importantly, they are passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of leaders
Online Advising and Career Services
Benefit from dedicated career and student services as a graduate student and as a Schar School alumni member
ONLINE CLASSES FOR NON-DEGREE STUDENTS
TAKE A SINGLE COURSE AS A VISITING ONLINE STUDENT
Interested in taking a course at the Schar School, but not quite ready for a degree program? The Schar School's non-degree option will let you take an online class in any of the 20+ undergraduate and graduate programs, without the pressure of earning a degree. This is a popular option for high school students looking to take advanced coursework, career-changers, retirees, and those who want to get a taste of a graduate program prior to applying for a degree.
LEARN MORE & APPLY NON-DEGREE
Online Master's and Certificate Programs
Gain the analytical skills and knowledge needed to assess national and international security risks posed by natural and man-made biological threats with the Master's in Biodefense - one of the Schar School’s most cutting-edge programs. Study emerging infectious diseases, global health security, disaster response operations, and biodefense security.
Program At-A-Glance:
- Part-time and full-time options
- Choose to enroll fully online, fully on-campus, or with a combination of both
- Fall or spring semester entry available
- 12 courses (36 credits)
ONLINE CERTIFICATE IN BIODEFENSE
The Graduate Certificate in Biodefense provides an interdisciplinary introduction to man-made and natural biological threats, including a background in the science and technology of biodefense and the specialized areas of threat assessment, non-proliferation, and medical and public health preparedness.
Program At-A-Glance:
- Part-time and full-time options
- Choose to enroll fully online, fully on-campus, or with a combination of both
- Fall or spring semester entry available
- 5 courses (15 credits)
ONLINE CERTIFICATE IN TERRORISM AND HOMELAND SECURITY
The Graduate Certificate in Terrorism and Homeland Security is an interdisciplinary introduction to the phenomenon of modern terrorism and its implications for U.S. domestic and foreign policy. It focuses on multidisciplinary analysis and holistic cross-sectoral approaches to long-term prevention of and response to terrorism.
EXPLORE THIS PROGRAM
ONLINE CERTIFICATE IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND HOMELAND SECURITY
The Graduate Certificate in Science, Technology, and Security provides an introduction to the intersection of science and security, covering topics such as the technology of CBRN weapons, proliferation, technical countermeasures, and the role of science and technology in the policy making process.
EXPLORE THIS PROGRAM