As Virginia’s largest public research university, we set the standard for a bold, progressive education that serves our students and communities.
We Were Made to Make it Better
Our identity was forged in 1972 on Virginia's strong ideals of academic excellence and service. Today, that spirit energizes us as a leader in scholarship and research; preparing graduates to meet the complex needs of a rapidly changing world.
Our Motto
Freedom and Learning
Our Mission
A public, comprehensive, research university established by the Commonwealth of Virginia in the National Capital Region, we are an innovative and inclusive academic community committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world.
The Mason Graduate
- An engaged citizen.
- A well-rounded scholar.
- Prepared to act.
Our Values
Our students come first
Our top priority is to provide students with a transformational learning experience that helps them grow as individuals, scholars and professionals
Diversity is our strength
We include and embrace a multitude of people and ideas in everything we do and respect differences
Innovation is our tradition
We strive to find new and better ways to deliver on our mission while honoring time-tested academic values
We honor freedom of thought and expression
We protect the freedom of all members of our community to seek truth and express their views
We are careful stewards
We manage the economic and natural resources entrusted to us responsibly and sustainably
We act with integrity
We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as educators, scholars, students and professionals
We thrive together
We nurture a positive and collaborative community that contributes to the well-being and success of every member

Each year, Mason welcomes thousands of healers, builders, authors, explorers, leaders, and inventors. They come to learn and grow; they leave ready to change the world.
At a Glance | |
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2018 Total Enrollment (US Campus) | 37,316 |
Degree Programs Offered | 211 |
Percentage First-Generation Undergraduate Degree-Seeking | 36% |
Students Receiving Aid (60%) | 22,143 |