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.
By majoring in Public Administration, you can prepare for an exciting and fulfilling career in government and nonprofit management. Courses focus on leadership, administration, and public policy in the political setting of public management. The B.S. in Public Administration requires completion of 52 credits, including eight core credits and a senior seminar.
Additionally, you may deepen your knowledge through one of the following optional concentrations:
A FACULTY OF EXPERTS
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.
First and foremost, however, the Schar School faculty members are committed to quality teaching. As a result, you will get to know your professors here and form mentoring relationships with them. That will help you do better in class, make wise decisions about internships and careers, and glean wisdom to be successful in life.
INTERNSHIPS
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:
You can earn up to six academic credits of internship toward your degree.
SUCCESS AFTER GRADUATION
A degree in Public Administration from George Mason University will give you the credentials to land a great job after graduation. Our public administration graduates are hired by some of the most prestigious companies, nonprofits, and government agencies in Washington, D.C., and beyond, including:
As a Public Administration graduate, you will also have access to a growing network of more than 16,000 fellow Schar School alumni who have the careers you want, who work as leaders for the organizations you want to work for, and with whom you can network and develop relationships.
“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, BS in Public Administration '20
"I knew that I wanted to pursue a government major and the location is so prime, being so close to the D.C. metro area. There are so many different types of perspectives, as well [as people] you're going to meet here."
—Chanel Gagne, BS in Public Administration '16
“Our faculty [in the Schar School] is legendary. The professors have taught me so much about how higher education is tied with Congress.”
—Camden Layton, BS in Public Administration '20
The Schar School of Policy and Government's Public Administration program is ranked No. 22 in the world, No. 11 in the U.S., and No.1 in the Washington, D.C., region by the Academic Ranking of World Universities.
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During the annual Mason Lobbies Day, undergraduate students from the Schar School and across George Mason University took meetings with state representatives and staff to advocate for various issues facing the Commonwealth's higher education system.
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Upon transferring universities, Joseph Fernando didn't realize what opportunities he would encounter—including two internships at the Senate and one at End Citizens United.
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As a senior Public Administration major in the Schar School of Policy and Government, Layton has found his calling in higher education policy. He plans to improve the school's relationship with the community and develop new strategies to improve student life.
READ MOREWant to learn more about undergraduate studies at the Schar School?
The Schar School of Policy and Government has a dedicated team of undergraduate student services advisors who will work with you to choose coursework, identify internship and career development opportunities, engage in research activities, and more. Prospective students are welcome to give us a call or email, or visit us in-person! Prospective Government and International Politics majors may email our team at gvip@gmu.edu, and prospective Public Administration majors may email us at puad@gmu.edu.
HOW TO APPLY