University Academic Programs and Resources

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• University Libraries
• Office of the Ombudsman
• Honors College
• University Scholars Community
• University Courses
• Bachelor of Applied Science
• International Programs and Resources
• Office of Continuing Professional Education
  
• Army ROTC 
• Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU)
• Mason Center for Conservation Studies (MCCS)
• Center for Global Studies
• The Center for Real Estate
  
• The Research Office

Phone: 703-993-2250
Web: library.gmu.edu

Administration

John G. Zenelis, University Librarian and Associate Vice President, Information Technology Fenwick Library, Room A227

Vacant, Associate University Librarian for Research, Instructional, and Outreach Services

Clyde W. Grotophorst, Associate University Librarian for Digital Programs and Systems

John C. Walsh, Associate University Librarian for Resources and Collection Management Services

Professional Faculty

Appleton, Baruzzi, Becker, Bowdoin, Bushallow, Byrd, Calcagno, Chen, Coniglio, Cowan, Dixon, Driscoll, Evans, Fairclough, Gerber, Gomez, Hamilton, Hannan, Heinemann, Holland, Holt, Jenemann, Killian, LaFleur, Lam, Landry, Lee, Lockaby, Mann, Mattson, Oberle, Palmer, Patty, Putnam, Renalducci, Reynolds, Roszkowski, Sheehan, Shelton, Sipes,  A. Stevens, J. Stevens, Suh, Vititpongs

Administrative Faculty

Fisher, Matthews, Perry, Stockwell, Vay

Resources and Services

Resources and services of the George Mason University Libraries are housed on the Fairfax Campus at the Charles Rogers Fenwick Library and the George W. Johnson Center Library; on the Arlington Campus at the Arlington Campus Library; and on the Prince William Campus at the Mercer Library. The School of Law Library, on the Arlington Campus, is administered separately. Combined holdings, including the law library, total more than 1.3 million books and bound journal volumes; 13,000 current print serial subscriptions; 3.2 million microform units; 344,000 print government documents; 214,000 maps; 46,000 multimedia materials; 600 electronic databases; 58,000 electronic journals and proceedings; 400,000 electronic books; and significant holdings of manuscripts, special collections, and archives.

Mason’s integrated library information system provides an online public-access catalog, circulation, electronic reserves, and library-processing services. The information system can be used in any of the libraries from campus locations on the network or via the web. The web site library.gmu.edu offers access to a variety of networked digital resources and electronically mediated services, including a virtual reference service.

The library liaison program supports a variety of cooperative and collaborative activities. Liaison librarians work with academic departments and programs to develop print collections and electronic resources. They also offer introductory and advanced information literacy instruction sessions, as well as advanced reference and research consultation services to students and faculty. Each of the four libraries has its own dedicated instruction room for information literacy classes.

Through membership and active participation in local, regional, and national library consortia, the University Libraries are better able to meet the needs of the university’s growing and diverse academic and research programs. Current affiliations include the following:

• The Virtual Library of Virginia (VIVA) Program, a Virginia-funded electronic and resource-sharing program for public higher-education institutions
• Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC), whose membership also includes American, Catholic, Georgetown, and George Washington universities
• Association of Southeastern Research Libraries, which includes the 36 largest university libraries in a 10-state region
• Center for Research Libraries, a Chicago-based research library for research libraries whose multimillion volume holdings comprise specialized and uniquely held materials in North America
• The international Online Computer Library Center, whose extensive computerized system and network facilitate national and international library resource-sharing activities.

An intercampus delivery service is available for students and faculty requesting materials held at any Mason campus library. Materials not held by Mason can be obtained by direct borrowing from WRLC institution libraries via the Consortium Loan Service, interlibrary loan, or commercial delivery services when required.

Expanded academic support services also include the following:

Data Services

Web: dataservices.gmu.edu

A new integrated service supports faculty and students engaged in data-centric research (e.g., social science data sets, polling data, census data, geospatial data, data archives). Includes consultation services and assistance with finding and using data sets, utilizing data analytic tools such as statistical software and Geographic Information Systems. Other services offered include help with statistical analysis (quantitative/qualitative), access to government information and maps, and research data management.

Educational Services Unit

The Educational Services Unit leads planning and program development for information literacy initiatives throughout all the libraries and, through collaboration with other university units, creates institution-wide projects and initiatives focused on students’ research abilities. The Educational Services Unit staff designs classes, tutorials, instructional materials, and program-level plans to teach students how to identify, assess, and manage information for their academic courses and other endeavors, and conduct research in an ethical way. This unit is also responsible for leading assessments related to information literacy and fluency projects.

iMasonLibraries Service

Web: library.gmu.edu/research

This service enables users to ask reference questions via an instant messenger.

Mason Archival Repository Service

Phone: 703-993-3742
Web:mars.gmu.edu

The Mason Archival Repository Service (MARS) provides a stable digital archive for scholarly and research materials of lasting value held notably by Special Collections and Archives or produced by Mason faculty, students, and staff. MARS is managed by Digital Programs and Systems. The MARS librarian offers expert advice on archiving these materials, file formats, copyright issues, long-term management of archived materials, and issues pertaining to scholarly communication.

Records Management

Phone: 703-993-2201

A part of the Special Collections and Archives, this service assists university academic and administrative departments with the retention and disposition of temporary records by providing a number of online resources to members of those departments. The records manager works with members of university departments to ensure that records are retained, retrieved, managed, and disposed of appropriately, in accordance with Virginia state laws, policies, and guidelines.

University Copyright Resources Office

Johnson Center, Rooms 227 EB
Phone: 703-993-2544 or 2427
Fax: 703-993-4116
Web: library.gmu.edu/copyright

This office provides guidance and assistance on copyright and fair use issues, including copyright use in classroom teaching and technology, online courses, distance education, university publications, university web sites, networked library collections and related services, electronic course reserves, and course readers. Workshops are offered on a regular basis.

University Dissertation and Thesis Services

Phone: 703-993-2222
Web: thesis.gmu.edu

The University Dissertation and Thesis Service (UDTS) assists students and academic units in the dissertation, thesis, and graduate-level project process by helping students meet all university requirements and deadlines for submission of work. The UDTS web site provides useful tools such as the university’s Thesis, Dissertation, or Project Guide, which contains downloadable templates of necessary elements, forms required for the submission process, and links to related web sites. UDTS also assists graduate students through individual consultation and informational workshops.

Fenwick Library

Phone: 703-993-2240

Fenwick is the main library in the university’s library system. It holds most of the book collections across disciplines, as well as current and bound journals, microforms, special collections and archives materials, federal and Virginia government documents, and maps. Instruction and reference classes are available in search strategies, information sources, and information technology. In addition, publicly accessible computer workstations and data ports for laptop use enable access to the entire system’s electronic resources and associated services.

Johnson Center Library

Phone: 703-993-9060

This library is part of the George W. Johnson Center integrated learning environment. Electronic access to scholarly information is complemented by a print-reference collection, multimedia collections, and a circulating book collection comprising core texts and readings supporting the university’s undergraduate curriculum. This library, in particular, supports interdisciplinary programs such as the Honors College and New Century College through its collections and outreach services. The library also holds designated discipline-based circulating book collections. It is the center for multimedia collections and services for the university library system. This library also provides course support through reserve materials (electronic, print, and media) for students and faculty on the Fairfax Campus and manages the entire electronic reserves service. Assistive  technologies include screen-reading software, text-enlargement software, and special hardware for individuals with disabilities.

Arlington Campus Library

Phone: 703-993-8188

This library is a full-service research facility supporting the teaching and research needs of Mason faculty, students, and staff on the Arlington Campus. Consistent with this campus’ distinct areas of academic specialization at the graduate level, the library’s collection emphasizes public policy, international commerce, economics, education, management of nonprofit organizations, and conflict resolution. The library holds a core of reference materials and is a depository of European Union documents. Intercampus delivery of circulating materials from other library sites is also available. Library staff can provide reference assistance and instruction for students, faculty, and staff in identifying and using resources. Physical library holdings continue to grow, while the library emphasizes providing many of its resources and services online. This library supports a wireless network, and assistive technologies are available for people with disabilities.

Mercer Library (Prince William Campus)

Phone: 703-993-8340

This library supports faculty and students in the programs and courses offered at the Prince William Campus, including education; biotechnology, bioinformatics, and biodefense; computer science; health, fitness, and recreation resources; and administration of justice. The library provides access to university-wide electronic resources, with an emphasis on instruction and assistance with information resources and research. Notable holdings include scientific journals in bioscience and biomedicine. The library is fostering partnerships to provide information services to the rapidly expanding corporate and technology presence in Prince William County. This library has a wireless network, as well as assistive technologies for people with disabilities.

School of Law Library (Arlington Campus)

Phone: 703-993-8106

Administration

Deborah M. Keene, Associate Dean, Library and Technology

This library supports the School of Law and has holdings in law and economics, including specialized academic tracks in intellectual property, litigation, corporate and securities law, international business, regulatory law, and technology and law. The library also provides access to electronic law resources including Lexis, Westlaw, and LegalTrac. This library is open to all members of the university community, and its collections are available for checkout by all faculty, students, and staff.

Johnson Center, Room 245
Phone: 703-993-3006
Email: ombuds@gmu.edu
Web: ombudsman.gmu.edu

Administration

Dolores Gomez-Moran, University Ombudsman

The Office of the Ombudsman is a neutral, independent, informal, and confidential resource to facilitate fair, equitable, and expeditious resolution of university-related concerns and problems raised by students. The ombudsman is an advocate for fairness and the equitable treatment of students, operates independently of all formal grievance processes at the university, and considers all sides of an issue in an impartial and objective manner. The ombudsman has no authority to make exceptions or to grant requests, but can perform informal investigations and, as a result, may recommend actions that lead to changes in processes and policies at the university. Meetings with the ombudsman are confidential. The ombudsman serves graduate and undergraduate students at the university.

Enterprise Hall, Room 302
Phone: 703-993-1110

Administration

Zofia Burr, Dean

The Honors College focuses attention on the excellence of Mason’s student body and highlights the full spectrum of opportunities for academic achievement, professional development, and public service that Mason offers our most highly-motivated undergraduates. The Honors College provides talented students in all majors with an enriched academic and social environment that enhances their college experience. Through participation in unique, innovative, and challenging programs, students develop their full potential to lead and be active members of their local, national, and global communities.

By incorporating multiple resources into the Honors College, the university provides students the support to excel academically and in their life-long pursuits. Included in these resources is the Honors Program  curriculum, which offers challenging courses that fulfill core academic requirements at Mason. Senior faculty, including Mason’s Robinson Professors, teach small classes of students taking the curriculum. From among the candidates invited to be a part of the Honors College, a small cadre of outstanding students are selected as University Scholars, Mason’s highest academic distinction. The Undergraduate Apprenticeship Program provides a research stipend to selected students who wish to work closely on a research or creative project with a faculty mentor of their choosing.  Additionally, all Honors College students have direct access to the Postgraduate Scholarships and Fellowships Program, which provides advice and information to high-achieving Mason undergraduates and recent alumni about the application process for nationally competitive fellowships.

The benefits of being part of the Honors College include the option of living in a diverse living-learning community. Activities include special lectures, events, and field trips on and off campus,  as well as distinctive opportunities to take advantage of internships and cultural programs in Washington, D.C.

All students in the Honors College receive individualized academic advising, priority registration, and opportunities for close interaction with faculty for one-on-one mentoring and graduate and professional advising. The Honors College also offers competitive study abroad scholarships for students in their junior or senior years.

Honors College
Enterprise Hall, Room 302
Phone: 703-993-1110

University Scholars Program

The University Scholars are selected from among the most outstanding students invited to the Honors College. This award is the highest academic distinction that Mason offers to undergraduate students and is given annually to top high school seniors admitted to the university. Each year the University Scholars Program enrolls approximately 25 new first-year students. Students receiving this award have demonstrated superior academic achievement, outstanding leadership, and an exemplary school and community service record. Applications must be submitted by December 1 to receive priority consideration for the scholarship.

The University Scholars reside in a common residence hall their first year and share the Dr. Noreen McGuire Prettyman University Scholars Lounge. Students enrolled in the University Scholars Program participate in a dynamic learning community that provides opportunities for intellectual, cultural, and social engagements.

The program draws to Mason a special caliber of student, one who is actively involved in all facets of academic and student life. In addition to excelling in their respective academic areas, the Scholars have historically emerged in a variety of student leadership positions and service-related activities.

Intellectual dialogue is fostered among scholars, professors, and administrators through stimulating seminars, discussion groups, cultural activities, service projects, internships, campus events, and participation in organizations that complement the Scholars’ academic experiences. The peer interaction, faculty guidance, student development programming, and the academic focus of the University Scholars community reflect the university’s commitment to providing an educationally stimulating and supportive environment that encourages academic excellence, professional development, and personal growth.

University (UNIV) courses are special undergraduate academic seminars that appeal to a wide range of majors. These courses fall into three general categories: transitional, interdisciplinary honors, and special topics. To encourage interaction between students and faculty, many of these courses have smaller class sizes. Some UNIV courses satisfy general education requirements; see the University General Education  section of this catalog.

University Transitions Courses

This series of courses focuses on transition through the various stages of college. UNIV 100, helps freshmen adjust academically, develop decision-making skills, and learn about the services and opportunities for involvement on campus. UNIV 101, Freshman Academic Transition focuses on academic transition and development issues for second semester freshmen. A special emphasis is placed on resources and techniques to assist students with assessing and improving their academic performance. Students will work closely with their instructor to track their academic progress over the course of the semester. UNIV 200 topics focus on choosing a major or career. UNIV 300 has three tracks: the first is for transfer students making the transition to a new university, the second focuses on career readiness for internships and research assistantships, and the third is designed for specific groups of student leaders. UNIV 400 emphasizes preparation for the workplace, graduate school, and life responsibilities.

University Interdisciplinary Honors Seminars

These seminars are offered to students who have demonstrated strong academic performance. They are developed to give high-ability freshmen and advanced-standing students the opportunity to study with a senior professor in a small classroom setting. The Freshman Seminars (UNIV 190) are open to eligible first-year students and are taught exclusively by the Robinson professors. Qualified students with 30 or more credits are invited to participate in the UNIV 390 seminars, which are taught by Robinson professors and other distinguished faculty scholars.

University Special Topics Courses

Upper-level University courses are open to all students unless specific prerequisites are indicated. They are usually repeated offerings. Two regularly offered University courses, each worth 3 credits, are UNIV 301 Great Ideas in Science and UNIV 441 AIDS: Its Impact in Our Society.

Administration

Academic Director: Rick Davis, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education
Administrative Program Director: Andrew Flagel, Dean of Admissions
Program Administrator: Darren Troxler, Director of Admissions Operations

The Applied Science, BAS  is an undergraduate liberal arts degree program. It is designed primarily to deepen student knowledge in an academic area and foster critical thinking, analytic reasoning and an ability to synthesize information.

The BAS articulates well with specialized associate degree programs, providing a streamlined path to completion of traditional academic requirements leading to the baccalaureate degree. It meets students’ professional and personal goals while developing a depth of knowledge and proficiency of skill that translates well to the workplace. However, it is not organized in the same way as a traditional baccalaureate degree, and the student’s area of specialization will not be formally identified on the transcript. Students planning graduate study should consult with an academic advisor prior to undertaking this degree program.

Office of Global and International Strategies

Phone: 703-993-9630
Fax: 703-993-5095
Web: masonglobal.gmu.edu

Administration

Dr. Anne Schiller, Vice President for Global Strategies

The Office of Global and International Strategies provides leadership and support to a university committed to realizing its global goals. It assists faculty, students, and units to pursue international activities, including through coordination of efforts across units and beyond borders. The office represents Mason’s global interests to government and non-governmental agencies, business and community leaders, and educational partners around the world. It also serves as an incubator for innovative projects through which Mason faculty and students engage with counterparts across the globe.

Center for Global Education: Study-Abroad Office

Johnson Center, Room 235
Phone: 703-993-2154
Fax: 703-993-2153
Web: globaled.gmu.edu
E-mail: cge@gmu.edu

Administration

Dr. Yehuda Lukacs, Director

The Center for Global Education (CGE) offers students the opportunity to challenge their assumptions about themselves and other cultures in an educational environment by offering study-abroad programs of varying lengths, academic emphasis, and locations. Students can discover new cultures, sharpen language skills, and travel while earning credit. Study options include faculty-led, short-term study tours and intensive language programs; semester and year-long Mason-sponsored programs; direct exchange programs and international internship programs. Most programs are open to Mason undergraduate and graduate students and short-term programs are also open to faculty, staff, and the general public.

CGE offers a wealth of resources to help create a personalized international experience, including information sessions about study-abroad and internship options; one-on-one student advising; transfer of approved international program credits; a resource library of travel books; international and diplomatic community programming; advising to international students from partner schools; and International Student Identity Cards.

English Language Institute

Krug Hall, Room 202
Phone: 703-993-3660
Fax: 703-993-3664
E-mail: ELI@gmu.edu
Web:eli.gmu.edu

Administration

John Pope, MA, Director
Baotran Beatson, MA, Associate Director
Karyn Mallett, PhD, Assistant Director

The English Language Institute (ELI) provides instruction in English as a second language to develop students’ language and academic skills, as well as cultural awareness necessary for academic, personal, and professional success. ELI offers two programs: the Intensive English Program, which serves international students who have come to the United States to study English in preparation for academic study at an American college or university, and the Support Services Program, which provides programs for nonnative, English speaking students newly admitted to Mason and other international members of the campus community. ELI also provides contract services to private corporations, embassies, and government agencies.

Office of International Programs and Services

Phone: 703-993-2970
Web: oips.gmu.edu

Administration

Judith Green, MEd, Director

The Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) advises and consults on matters affecting non-immigrant students, scholars, faculty, staff, and families at Mason. Staff members provide regulatory information related to non-immigrant status and have been designated by the university to issue and sign immigration documents and paperwork on behalf of the institution. OIPS advisors are available by appointment to discuss any concern and to provide practical assistance to students and scholars as they adjust to U.S. culture. OIPS conducts a comprehensive orientation program for new international students and offers social and cultural programming throughout the fall and spring semesters. Most notably, the staff works with student groups and the Student Activities Office to coordinate Mason’s International Week held annually in April.

International/Multicultural Student Organizations

Phone: 703-993-2909
E-mail:isu@gmu.edu

The International/Multicultural Student Organizations consist of a variety of international/multicultural student organizations that coordinate educational and social activities to promote cross-cultural understanding and international awareness.

International Student Association

Phone: 703-993-2970
E-mail:oips@gmu.edu

The International Student Association is a group of students from around the world who work together to assist newly arriving students and meet for fellowship and fun. Their goal is to make all students feel welcome and comfortable at George Mason University and to participate in activities with classmates of various cultures and backgrounds.

Fairfax Campus
Krug Hall, Room 211
Phone: 703-993-2109
Web: ocpe.gmu.edu

Prince William Campus Professional Development Office
Phone: 703-993-8335

Herndon Office and Training Center, located at the Center for Innovative Technology
2214 Rock Hill Road
Herndon, VA 22070
Phone: 703-993-4800

Administration

Janet Niblock, Executive Director

The Office of Continuing Professional Education (OCPE) serves as Mason’s initial point of contact and referral for the business and professional community, and responds to all professional development and continuing education inquiries, requests, and needs. Supported program activities include contracted academic credit programs, noncredit public programs and seminars, online courses, professional certificate programs, continuing education units (CEUs), on-site contract training programs, special professional development events and programs, special workforce development programs, and training center facilities.

The OCPE is strategically located at the Fairfax Campus in Krug Hall, the Prince William Campus, and the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) in Herndon. Current continuing education program information, offerings, and capabilities can be reviewed at ocpe.gmu.edu.

The Krug Hall office serves as the primary point of inquiry and referral. It facilitates, promotes, and administers the delivery of contract credit courses, online courses, and other specialized non-credit professional development programs. This office also administers the award of CEUs, which are nationally recognized standard units of measurement earned for satisfactory completion of qualified programs of continuing education. OCPE provides this service to all Mason academic groups that deliver noncredit professional development programs.

The Prince William Campus office facilitates a variety of open enrollment and contract programs (both noncredit and credit) that support the strengths of the programs on that campus. Programs are designed to meet the professional development needs of the business community of the Prince William area, as well as Northern Virginia local and state government communities.

The OCPE Herndon Office located in CIT in Northern Virginia’s high-technology corridor facilitates a variety of professional development programs targeted to the area’s business and federal government organizations. This office reaches out to the business community by designing, marketing, and delivering noncredit training courses and in-depth certificate programs. Public seminars and customized, contract training programs respond to the needs and interests of managerial, technical, and professional employees in private, nonprofit, and public organizations located in Northern Virginia and the broader metropolitan area.

Phone: 703-993-2706
Fax: 703-993-2708

Administration

Major Paul Kremer, U.S. Army
Professor of Military Science

The Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is an elective program offering qualified students the opportunity to earn a commission as an officer in the U.S. Army, Army National Guard, or U.S. Army Reserve while pursuing a baccalaureate or graduate degree as a full-time student. The program emphasizes student learning and participation in applied leadership, leadership theory, decision making, management skills, time management, ethics and military law, logistics, military roles and national objectives, strategic and tactical planning and principles, and basic military knowledge and skills. The George Mason Army ROTC Patriot Battalion began in 1981, achieved independent status in 2000, and frequently conducts training with colleges and universities throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.

Enrollment

Enrollment in Military Science (MLSC) courses is open to all students at the Basic Course Level. Freshmen (MLSC 100 and 101), sophomore (MLSC 200 and 201), and junior (MLSC 300 and 301) classes are awarded 1 credit each. Senior classes (MLSC 400 and 401) earn 3 credits each. No military service obligation is incurred by enrolling in the freshman and sophomore level Army ROTC courses. Courses can be dropped or added, as with any elective course at Mason.

The four-year program is organized into two successive phases: the Basic Course and the Advanced Course. For students seeking the opportunity to earn a commission as an officer, several entry methods and participation strategies can be used. A minimum of four semesters must remain in the student’s academic curriculum to complete commissioning requirements; these semesters may be part of either an undergraduate or graduate degree. Course descriptions appear under Military Science (MLSC) in the Course Descriptions chapter of this catalog. Cadets must meet established academic standards. A student must maintain an overall GPA of at least 2.00 to earn commissioning credit for ROTC.

Contracted and scholarship cadets of any level are required to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) once each semester. Physical fitness training is conducted three times each week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 6:30 to 8 a.m.). All students are encouraged to attend in order to develop a lifelong commitment to fitness and health.

Basic Course Curriculum

The Basic Course curriculum is a four-course series (MLSC 100, 101, 200, 201), usually taken in the freshman and sophomore years. Each class awards 1 academic credit. The Basic Course trains students in the topics listed above, as well as in applied topics, including map reading, land navigation, first aid, physical fitness, leadership, ethics and communication skills. Each lecture class meets once a week for 50 minutes for MLSC 100/101 and 75 minutes for MLSC 200/201. Textbooks are provided free of charge to all enrolled students. Uniforms and equipment are also issued to students at no cost, but students must return them at the end of each semester.

Mason’s Army ROTC program has numerous experiential aspects. The MLSC Leadership Laboratory LAB 201 section encompasses several different activities. Students enrolling in any ROTC lecture class must enroll in the required, nongraded lab section. Only the Professor of Military Science can waive LAB 201 enrollment in certain circumstances, such as scheduling conflicts.

All LAB 201 sections meet as a combined unit on Thursdays from 1:30 to 4:15 p.m. During this time, Cadets train in a variety of hands-on, practical leadership skills and military tasks, ranging from drills and ceremonies to squad and platoon tactics.

Army ROTC also organizes numerous optional events, including rappelling, orienteering, and helicopter orientations. A battlefield visit is offered every year, and a formal military ball is held during the spring semester. The unit has an organized color guard, drill team and an intercollegiate Ranger Challenge competition team. Students also have the opportunity to attend official Army training courses such as basic airborne training and the air assault course. Enrolled students typically become progressively more involved to enhance their training, develop esprit de corps, and take part in social aspects of the program.

Advanced Course Curriculum

The Advanced Course consists of a four-course series (MLSC 300, 301, 400, 401) taken during the junior and senior years. MLSC 300 and 301 earn 1 credit each, while MLSC 400 and 401 earn 3 credits each. Enrollment in the ROTC advanced course requires that students enter into a contract to serve as a commissioned officer in the active or reserve component of the U.S. Army upon graduation. Many graduates elect to apply for service on active duty although ROTC also offers the opportunity of service in either the Army Reserve or Army National Guard.

The 300-level courses emphasize squad and platoon leadership, tactics, and preparation for the Leadership Development Assessment Course (LDAC). LDAC is a four-week training and evaluation event conducted during the summer at Fort Lewis, Washington.  Successful completion is a prerequisite for commissioning.  Cadets typically attend LDAC in the summer between their junior and senior years; however, they may attend after their senior year if necessary. Salary, travel expenses, and room and board are all provided during the course.

Satisfactory completion of an approved military history course is also required. The department of History and Art history offers a number of 300-level survey courses on the American military experience that satisfy this requirement.  Permission of the Professor of Military Science is required prior to substituting any other course.

Upper division ROTC students are also expected to participate in peer mentoring as part of their leadership development. The ROTC peer mentorship program helps students assimilate into the program and helps students prioritize their time to ensure they remain in good academic standing.

Enrollment in the basic course ROTC classes is open to any Mason student. Prerequisites exist for upper-level courses. For more information, see the Course Descriptions chapter of this catalog.

The 400-level courses are considered to be the transition phase to becoming an officer in the U.S. Army. These courses focus on leadership, staff operations, logistics, military law, and ethics. Seniors are expected to organize and attend an additional one-hour staff and training meeting per week as part of their leadership experience and duties. Planning and implementation of training becomes the primary focus for seniors in LAB 201.

Earning a Commission

There are several methods by which students may enter Army ROTC to earn a commission as a second lieutenant on graduation:

• Traditional students may complete the four-year program.
• Sophomores may dual-enroll in both years of MLSC freshman and sophomore level instruction to satisfy the lower-level division requirement in a single academic year.
• Veterans with prior college credits may enter directly into the upper-division sequence (if academically aligned as a junior).
• Sophomores may apply to attend a five-week Leader’s Train Course (LTC) between the sophomore and junior years to gain experience equivalent to the basic course.
• A special four-semester program is available to nursing majors in which LTC is not required.

Education delays for graduate study also may be approved for Cadets seeking training as physicians, lawyers or ministers. Non-U.S. citizens may participate freely in the lower-division ROTC courses, but must earn U.S. citizenship prior to enrollment in courses requiring a contractual obligation to serve as a commissioned officer.

Scholarship Programs

Two-, three-, and four-year ROTC scholarships are available to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors in all majors on a competitive basis as well as to graduating seniors who wish to pursue a two-year master’s degree. Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 to apply and be under age 35 when commissioned. Scholarships pay 100 percent of tuition, an annual book allowance of $1,200, and a stipend of at least $300 per month during the school year, all tax free. There is no service obligation incurred when applying.

A two-year Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty scholarship is available that guarantees reserve duty upon graduation and commissioning (no active duty tour). Students should contact the Professor of Military Science to determine eligibility.

High school students interested in four-year scholarships should apply by December 15 of their senior year for a scholarship that would start in the fall semester of their freshman year at Mason. Contact the Professor of Military Science for details.

Many students participate in ROTC as nonscholarship cadets. A nonscholarship cadet cannot enter into a contract to receive a commission until the sophomore year. For the sophomore, junior, and senior years, nonscholarship contracted students receive a monthly stipend and book allowance for the school year.

Air Force ROTC

Two programs are available for college men and women to earn a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force while completing their university degree requirements. To enter, students should call 301-314-3242 or go to www.afrotc.umd.edu. Mason students can register for the appropriate courses through the Consortium Office, but mandatory courses are held at the University of Maryland. Car pools among Mason students are usually available.

Phone: 865-576-3306
Web: www.orau.org

Administration

Roger R. Stough, Vice President for Research and Economic Development; ORAU Councilor for George Mason University
Monnie E. Champion, ORAU Corporate Secretary

Since 1993, the students and faculty of George Mason University have benefited from its membership in Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU). ORAU is a consortium of 98 colleges and universities and a contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. ORAU works with member institutions to help their students and faculty gain access to federal research facilities throughout the country; keep its members informed about opportunities for fellowship, scholarship, and research appointments; and organize research alliances among its members.

Through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), the DOE facility operated by ORAU, undergraduates, graduates, postgraduates, and faculty members enjoy access to a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Students can participate in programs covering a wide variety of disciplines, including business, earth sciences, epidemiology, engineering, physics, geological sciences, pharmacology, ocean sciences, biomedical sciences, nuclear chemistry, and mathematics. Appointment and program length range from one month to four years. Many of these programs are especially designed to increase the number of underrepresented minority students pursing degrees in science- and engineering-related disciplines. A comprehensive listing of these programs and other opportunities, their disciplines, and details on locations and benefits can be found in the ORISE Catalog of Education and Training Programs, which is available at http://www.orau.gov/orise/educ.htm, or by calling either of the contacts below.

ORAU’s Office of Partnership Development seeks opportunities for partnerships and alliances among ORAU’s members, private industry, and major federal facilities. Activities include faculty development programs, such as the Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Awards, the Visiting Industrial Scholars Program, consortium research funding initiatives, faculty research, and support programs, as well as services to chief research officers.

Web: mccs.gmu.edu
Email: mccs@gmu.edu, smithsem@gmu.edu

Administration

R. Christian Jones, Director
Anne Marchant, Associate Director
Sylvia Vitazkova, Deputy Director

The Mason Center for Conservation Studies is an interdepartmental unit that supports interdisciplinary programs in conservation research and education. In collaboration with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and the Center for Conservation Education and Sustainability, both a part of the National Zoo, the Center offers a Smithsonian-Mason Semester for undergraduates and a number of graduate and professional training courses. The faculty of the Center come from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Science, the Smithsonian Institution, and other institutions that support the center’s mission.

Courses take place at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia. This 3200-acre facility is one of the premier conservation research facilities in the world, housing innovative research on some of the rarest species on earth. Students live and learn with prominent research scientists, educators, and conservation practitioners. 

The Smithsonian-Mason Semester is a 16-credit undergraduate program in which students can earn a minor in applied conservation studies. See the Programs of Study chapter of this catalog for details on the minor and the Courses chapter for details on the courses (select the course prefix CONS). Grounded in natural science, this interdisciplinary semester brings public policy, sociology, conflict resolution, and global awareness to the learning environment. Students majoring in the BAIS program, Biology, Environmental Science, and Global Affairs may be able to fulfill major requirements and/or General Education requirements with Smithsonian-Mason Semester (CONS) credits subject to advisor approval.

Graduate students can earn an Applied Conservation Science Graduate Certificate . This certificate is designed for early to mid-career conservation professionals working in government, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions worldwide. Courses are offered in an intensive 1-2 week format at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute.
 

Phone: 703-993-9433
Web: cgs.gmu.edu

Administration

Terrence Lyons, Co-director and Associate Professor, School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
Jo-Marie Burt, Interim Co-director and Associate Professor, Public and International Affairs

Dedicated to the promotion of multidisciplinary research on globalization, the Center for Global Studies coordinates outreach efforts in global affairs, facilitating access for external communities to the university’s full range of global expertise. Ongoing activities include hosting guest speakers and visiting scholars, an annual conference, electronic and paper publications, and an annual cycle of small grants to support faculty research. The center also manages multi-academic unit research projects and a number of regional and thematic working groups.

Phone: 703-993-9843
Web: realestate.gmu.edu

Administration

Anthony B. Sanders, Executive Director and Professor

Pooling resources and expertise from the Volgenau School of Engineering, the School of Public Policy, and the School of Management, the Center for Real Estate Entrepreneurship is developing graduate, and certificate programs in real estate development that encompass the entire real estate development continuum from land use and environmental considerations to acquisition dynamics and construction management. Areas of emphasis currently being designed include land use and zoning, sustainable development, real estate finance, management of the development process, development company management, marketing and asset management, and entrepreneurship and leadership.

The Office of Research and Economic Development has overall responsibility for the university’s research enterprise. Working in an atmosphere characterized by its commitment to cultivating innovation and generation of new knowledge for the benefit of our global society, Mason’s scholars conduct research in an array of disciplines and subjects. The Office works to foster the continuation of these endeavors and to promote an environment that sustains the highest standards of scholarship, health, and safety.

The Office establishes, under the advisement of the Research Council, and administers the policies governing the conduct of research at the university. It also oversees the management of Mason’s research programs, assists investigators seeking external funding, and promotes interdisciplinary research. Additional information about Research Administration, the units managed by the Office, and the resources and policies supporting students and scholars conducting research throughout the university, go to research.gmu.edu.