“Mason is deeply committed to the arts and educating our students about the significance the arts have in all our lives. This is why the arts are integral to our institution. We encourage active student participation in the many programs and related courses in the arts that are scheduled throughout the year. Students are able to receive a more balanced education, develop a deeper appreciation of the arts, and achieve a more enlightened perspective of the world.”
The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) creates an academic environment in which the arts are considered as individual disciplines as well as interdisciplinary forms that strengthen each other. Courses of study are designed to lead to careers as creators, performers, teachers, managers, and scholars of the arts, as well as prepare students for the challenges of a rapidly changing world. In addition to providing strong programs for arts majors and minors, CVPA strives to ensure that Mason’s entire student population has the opportunity to experience and study the arts as a key component of a well-rounded liberal arts education.
Studying the arts goes hand in hand with creation and performance. CVPA provides the theaters, studios, rehearsal spaces, computer laboratories, recital halls, and performance classrooms in which students hone their skills. Each major features strong academic preparation in the history and theory of the art form that supports discipline based technique courses. Creative work and performance are at the core of most courses of study. The college’s faculty of practicing artist-teachers works closely with students in a variety of curricular and co-curricular creative projects. Once basic techniques are established, students are encouraged to stretch, grow, and experiment within this supportive environment. Students regularly perform, create, exhibit, and otherwise develop their art forms in a wide variety of public venues, enhancing their experience as working artists while enriching the cultural life of the campus community.
An education in the arts is deepened by regular contact with the work of distinguished visiting artists. The college is home to the Center for the Arts, which comprises a variety of professional presenting and producing units that provide a diverse program of cultural experiences for the entire university community, as well as Northern Virginia and the greater Washington, D.C., area. Artists from across the country and around the world regularly perform in the Concert Hall, give master classes, work with students during extended residencies, and interact with the community in a variety of other ways. The accessibility and vitality of the Concert Hall, TheaterSpace, the Fine Arts Building and Johnson Center Galleries, Harris Theater, and other campus venues make the arts pervasive at Mason and in our larger community.
The undergraduate degree consists of course work in university general education, a major area of study, and electives. To earn a bachelor’s degree, students must complete a minimum of 120 credits, of which at least 45 must be upper level courses (numbered 300 and above). At least one course at the 300 or 400 level must be designated “writing intensive.” All entering students who have not yet satisfied the university-wide requirement in quantitative reasoning are required to take the math placement test prior to enrollment.
CVPA’s graduate programs offer highly focused study designed to prepare students for professional work in the arts and education. The requirements for each graduate degree are described in the sections that follow.
Students are ultimately responsible for their academic progress towards their degrees. Students should become familiar with the university’s general academic policies in addition to those specific to each academic unit. Please see the Academic Policies section of this catalog.
Students with questions regarding exceptions to academic policies should contact the CVPA Academic Affairs Office (Performing Arts Building, A407; 703-993-4551).
Undergraduate students earning degrees in CVPA may register for 18 credits per fall and spring semester without the dean’s permission. Students are advised that they will be required to pay additional tuition beyond the 16-credit, university full-time academic load. Graduate students earning degrees in CVPA may register for a maximum of 13 credits per fall and spring semester. Students should be cognizant of the time commitment when they register for their courses, especially if they register for high numbers of credits. Students are urged to consult with their advisor and familiarize themselves with Mason guidelines for work and academic load. Students are reminded that employment must not take priority over course work.
Students with documented disabilities should contact the Office of Disability Services (Student Union I, Room 222; 703-993-2474) to open a file and learn more about accomodations that may be available to them.
Students are assigned advisors and are strongly encouraged to meet with them periodically, and particularly when they achieve 75 credits, or are two semesters before expected graduation. Undeclared CVPA students and undergraduate students in academic difficulty (cumulative GPA under 2.00) are required to see an advisor prior to registration for the semester following registration restriction.
Undergraduate students earning CVPA degrees must earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in their major, or higher, if required by their program.
Some degrees within CVPA require intermediate-level proficiency in one foreign language. This requirement may be fulfilled by completing a course in a foreign language numbered 202, 209, or 210 (or higher level courses taught in the language) or achieving a satisfactory score on an approved proficiency test. International students should consult the CVPA Student Academic Affairs Office about a possible waiver of this requirement.
The baccalaureate degree requires students to take a range of courses that provide a broad knowledge of the world, develop the ability to think both conceptually and critically, acquaint them with many different methods of inquiry, and provide the skills to continue intellectual growth throughout their lives. Students select from a range of courses outlined in the University General Education chapter (University General Education ). Students accepted into the Honors Program in General Education fulfill their core general education requirements with completion of that program of study. Students are strongly advised to consult the University General Education chapter of this catalog for information concerning general education.
University policy states that students must earn 8 distinct credits that are not used for their major toward their minor. Some departments have more specific criteria for applying credits to a minor.
Activity courses offered by the Health, Fitness, and Recreation Resources Department cannot be counted toward credits required for a degree in CVPA. Students may take nonactivity PHED courses for elective credit for CVPA degrees.
Students are personally responsible for correctly registering for courses and paying all tuition and fees by the official university registration and payment deadlines. Instructors do not have the authority to add students to courses. All students should verify the accuracy of their enrollment before the end of the add period.
Students enrolled at George Mason University are expected to complete their coursework in residence. Exceptions to this policy are rare and are considered only under extraordinary circumstances and on a case-by-case basis. Students must obtain advance, written approval from their department/program and dean’s office before enrolling in classes elsewhere.
To be considered for an exception to this policy, students must have completed the immediately preceding semester with a GPA of 2.00 or higher and not be in danger of academic probation, suspension or dismissal. Freshmen and new transfer stuents are not allowed to take courses elsewhere as they have yet to establish an academic record at George Mason. Since transfer students have already transferred a number of hours, they are expected to plan all remaining courses in residence. Local community colleges are not part of the University Consortium, and requests to take community college courses are seldom approved. Courses offered at Consortium Universities must be reviewed by the Consortium Coordinator in advance and will not be considered for general study elsewhere review.
Courses elsewhere that have been pre-approved by the dean’s office must be taken for a grade and be passed with a GPA of 2.00 or higher in order to be transferred to George Mason. Although credit for the course can be transferred, the grade for the course cannot.
Students must make arrangements with the visited institution to have an official transcript mailed directly to the George Mason University Registrar’s Office immediately after the course work is completed. Credit cannot be transferred until an official transcript is received.
Undergraduate students may transfer a maximum of 18 credits earned in nondegree status into a degree program.
Graduate credit earned prior to admission to a certificate, master’s, or doctoral program may be eligible to be transferred and applied to a CVPA graduate program, certificate or doctoral degree. Please see the Graduate Policies/Transfer of Credit portion of the catalog for more detailed information about the requirements.
Students are responsible for all courses in which they remain officially enrolled once the drop period has ended.
Instructors do not have the authority to withdraw students from classes. Withdrawals require the approval of the academic dean and are typically allowed only for full semesters at a time (all enrolled courses) and are only permitted for non-academic reasons. No withdrawals can be approved to avoid an unsatisfactory grade. When submitting a withdrawal request, students must provide verifiable, third-party documentation for the reason for the withdrawal. Requests for withdrawals should be submitted as early in the semester as possible, and never after the last day of classes.
Undergraduates enrolled in degree programs are eligible to withdraw from three classes through the ninth week (of a fifteen week semester) without dean’s approval and at the student’s own discretion during their entire undergraduate career at Mason. See University Academic Policies for further details.
Although faculty members are generally the best judges of student performance in their classes, circumstances may cause a student to believe that a professor is unfair. Grade appeals are not accepted after the last day of classes for the following semester, as indicated in the Schedule of Classes (spring for fall grades, fall for spring and summer grades). The following are the College’s steps in grade appeals:
The Decision of the CVPA Associate Dean (undergraduate students), or Assistant Dean (graduate students) is final.
In exceptional circumstances a student may request a meeting to review the decision of an academic action.
A student who intends to file a non-academic appeal, or intends to file a grievance against a faculty member, another student, or administrator follows the following steps:
The Registrar’s Office contacts students via e-mail if they earned an academic warning, or dismissal. Students wishing to appeal should contact the CVPA Graduate Programs Office within three days of the e-mail date. A deadline for the appeal documentation is determined, normally two weeks. Students are to submit:
Some CVPA courses transcend individual disciplines. These courses are administered by the Dean’s Office and are designated CVPA in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
■ Art and Visual Technology
College Hall, Room C200
Phone: 703-993-8898
Web: www.avt.gmu.edu
Faculty
Harold Linton, Chair
Professors: Carbonneau, Frederick, Kravitz (gallery director), Linton (chair), Mandes, Sandell
Associate professors: Ashcraft (associate chair), Crawford, Feerick, Frenn, White
Assistant professors: Cooley, Cui, Endress, Karametou, Rothstein, Sheridan, Winant (associate chair), Wrbican
Term assistant professors: Constantine, Del Popolo, Malone, Stanley, Starr
Adjunct faculty: Bradley, Bulisova, Carr-Shaffer, Castellana, Chao, Clements, Cushner, DeLuca, Dicicco, Fairfax, Ferreira, Goldman, Gorman, Guerrieri, Herce, Hicks, Ho, Hoffmann, Kerns, Kirk, Nahidian, Organ, Petzwinkler, Rodriguez, Rozario, Sapsford, Serafin, Tomhave, Watson, Wiseman
Mission
The Department of Art and Visual Technology (AVT) offers students an environment in which the pursuit of a degree is a commitment to a way of life that centers on creative thought processes and the production of artworks. The curriculum and the faculty focus on cultivating students’ appreciation of and expertise in studio and digital arts. Students are encouraged to dedicate themselves to academic excellence, skilled artistry, and employing visual literacy within an atmosphere of creative freedom. The faculty’s ongoing engagement with artistic practice forms a vital part of the student-instructor relationship. By offering instruction in traditional and contemporary technologies for art making, faculty members help students develop a strong foundation to realize their personal and professional goals.
A principle that underlies the AVT Program is its focus on fostering student understanding and experience of the interdisciplinary nature of inquiry and practice in the visual arts. This focus is important because art today crosses the boundaries of traditional disciplines and integrates traditional and technology-based media into the creation of new art forms. This interdisciplinary focus is introduced to all AVT majors in required Foundations and Core courses and is reinforced throughout the AVT curriculum.
Course Work
The Department of Art and Visual Technology offers all course work designated AVT in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
Undergraduate studio degrees offered by the Department of Art and Visual Technology include the bachelor of arts (BA) and the bachelor of fine arts (BFA). The department also offers an undergraduate minor in AVT, an interdisciplinary minor in multimedia, and a departmental honors program for selected AVT majors.
Neither the BA nor the BFA program satisfies all requirements for those seeking accreditation for teaching in the public schools. Undergraduate students interested in this field should contact the department’s art education advisor to learn more about teacher preparation.
All George Mason University students are welcome to enroll in course work in AVT. Consult the course listings for prerequisites.
Admission to AVT Requirements
All students are admitted to AVT programs of study separately from their admission to the university and only by portfolio review. Students may be admitted to study in the BA or BFA program by one of three ways:
- Presenting a portfolio and any other requested credentials at designated portfolio review days before each semester and before applying for admission
- Completing the sequence of AVT 104, 105, and 222 with a 3.25 or higher average in those courses, and applying for admission through a portfolio review
- Completing the sequence of AVT 104, 105, and 222; and 323 or 324; and one other 200-level AVT course with a 3.00 or higher GPA in those courses; and applying for admission through a portfolio review
BFA Portfolio Review
New students at Mason may apply to the BFA program upon admission to the university through a portfolio review. Portfolio reviews are scheduled through periodic Admission Office events, or through scheduled dates designated by the AVT Department. Please call the main office to schedule an appointment (703-993-8898).
For current Mason student in the AVT BA program who wish to change to the BFA program, or other current Mason students, application deadlines are at the end of the sixth week of the fall and spring semester each year. Students planning to apply must meet with the coordinator of their AVT concentration in the semester prior to their application to discuss the portfolio.
For all candidates, admission to the BFA program is highly competitive and requires submission of the following:
For all incoming students:
- Portfolio of 10 to 15 original examples of college-level art work
- One-page, double-spaced essay
In addition, for all transfer students:
- Transcripts of all college-level study
- Must have at least a 3.00 cumulative GPA overall and in the major
Students may alternatively be admitted to study in the BFA program by one of three ways:
- Presenting a portfolio and any other requested credentials at designated portfolio review days before each semester and before applying for admission
- Completing the sequence of AVT 104, 105, and 222 with a 3.25 or higher average in those courses, and applying for admission through a portfolio review
- Completing the sequence of AVT 104, 105, and 222; and 323 or 324; and one other 200-level AVT course with a 3.00 or higher GPA in those courses; and applying for admission through a portfolio review
Students interested in applying should contact the Department of Art and Visual Technology for an application and specific directions on presenting the portfolio.
Artsbus Requirement
All AVT majors must meet the department’s requirement of travel to galleries and museums through the AVT Artsbus program. Students meet this requirement by enrolling in AVT 300 Artsbus Attendance. The procedure and requirements for enrollment in AVT 300 is the same as for any other class.
Freshmen who enroll as AVT majors must take AVT 300 for five semesters. Transfer students and students who change their majors to AVT must take AVT 300 for the equivalent of each semester they are enrolled at Mason, up to a maximum of five semesters. Semesters of enrollment in AVT 300 do not have to be consecutive. Students may take AVT 300 up to three times in a semester if they wish to accelerate their completion of the requirement although this is strongly discouraged.
All rules and requirements to AVT 300/Artsbus participation are posted on the Artsbus web site: http://artsbus.gmu.edu. Students are responsible for being familiar with and following the posted rules and requirements for Artsbus. The site also provides pertinent information for each trip regarding exhibits as well as reviews and articles for exhibitions.
Visual Voices Requirement
All AVT majors must fulfill three credits of Visual Voices, AVT 301, in order to graduate, unless they are enrolled at Mason for fewer than three semesters. If enrolled for less than three semesters, students are required to have one AVT 301 credit per semester in which they are enrolled. Visual Voices is an intrinsic part of the major, offering students a chance to meet with and hear nationally and internationally recognized artists speak about their work. The procedure and requirements for enrollment in AVT 301 are the same as for any other class.
Writing-Intensive Requirement
Mason requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their majors at the 300 level or above. AVT students fulfill this requirement by successfully completing AVT 395 (or AVT 494 for BFA students planning to pursue the MAT in art education).
Upper-Level Credits
All undergraduate students are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits of upper-division courses at the 300–499 level.
Major GPA
All AVT undergraduate students must earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in their major.
Studios
The Art and Visual Technology program is located in the arts building which houses well equipped studios for drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture, as well as six computer-equipped studios that cross platforms and are installed with current software applications used for two dimensional imaging, three-dimensional modeling, animation, video production, sound editing, multimedia authoring, photography, and web publishing.
Studios are open to students for extended periods mornings, evenings, and weekends whenever classes are not in progress. Policies, procedures, and schedules for studio use are established by the AVT studio faculty and are posted in the studios.
AVT Honors Program
Students interested in the Honors Program in Art and Visual Technology should contact the chair of the department. Both BA and BFA students are eligible to apply for admission to the program. Honors students must complete at least 4 credits of AVT 394 Honors Seminar.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
Undergraduate Minor
Master's Degree
■ Art Education
Renee Sandell, Program Director
Phone: 703-993-8562
Web: arteducation.gmu.edu
The master of arts in teaching in art education is a preservice degree program that prepares students with a BFA degree or equivalent for PreK-12 art licensure by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Using a studio-based approach to art education and working closely with area public school systems, the MAT degree consists of 30 credits of graduate art education, school practicum experience, and studio work prior to preservice teaching internship and seminar.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts academic policies.
Master's Degree
■ Arts Management
4260 Chain Bridge Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 703-993-8926
Web: artsmanagement.gmu.edu
Faculty
Richard Kamenitzer, Program Director
Professor: Reeder
Associate professors: Brindle, Marcus, Martin
Term associate professor: Kamenitzer (program director)
Adjunct faculty: Allen, Berardelli, Bienvenu, Case, Coppage, Dawn, Denhardt, Hauptle, Hill, Huschle, Kaiser, Kraft, Lopez, Madden, Murray, Richard, Simpson, Smyers, Thompson
Course Work
The Arts Management Program offers all course work designated MAM in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
Graduate Certificates:
Arts Entrepreneurship
The Arts Entrepreneurship certificate is for early to mid-career professionals working at least tangentially in an arts-related profit or nonprofit business. Participants will augment their existing knowledge by examining innovative case studies, studying advanced practices and processes, and the actual execution of business models.
Fund Raising and Development in the Arts
The Fund Raising and Development certificate is especially helpful for mid-career professionals. It focuses on the practical application of development principles, writing and communication skills, and strategic planning.
Public Relations and Marketing in the Arts
The Public Relations and Marketing in the Arts certificate focuses on strategic planning, development and implementation of public relations and marketing in arts organization for the beginning and mid-level professional.
Special Events Management in the Arts
The Special Events Management in the Arts certificate is for the entry level or mid-level professional to increase their skills in the fast paced and creative field of events management.
PROGRAM
The MA in arts management responds to a growing demand for graduates who can manage and coordinate the arts, bridging the world of performing and visual arts with applied managerial skills. The Washington, D.C., region is home to one of the nation’s largest concentrations of performing and visual arts organizations. The demand for arts managers with skills in financial and budgetary management, strategic management and entrepreneurship, and public relations, including marketing and advertising, has arguably never been more acute. The need for arts managers with skills in philanthropy, fund raising, and ongoing relationship-building management among the private and public arts sectors also continues to grow at a fast pace.
The MA is a 36-credit program of study that provides a core curriculum in the fundamentals of arts management. Students complete a 23-credit core and then select courses from a cluster: entrepreneurship in the arts and management; finance and budgeting for the arts; marketing and public relations; or an arts-specific cluster. Students also take internal and external internships. The internal internship affords an in-depth opportunity to work with professionals in residence at Mason’s Center for the Arts. The external internship provides the opportunity to work at more than 60 different visual and performing arts venues in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Admissions Requirements
The program is geared toward those with a passion for the arts. Diversity among applicants is anticipated and sought, and candidates are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Work experience is strongly preferred. It is anticipated that applicants will come from the arts community, with experience and training in music, dance, theater, and visual and technical arts and wish to add the skills of marketing, finance, strategy, entrepreneurship, and management to their repertoire. It is also expected that students will enter with more developed skills in the business side of the arts and wish to unite these skills with prior experiences in the arts. Completed applications must be received by March 1 for fall and October 1 for spring.
In addition to meeting general requirements for university admission for graduate study, applicants must submit the following items:
- Official undergraduate transcripts listing a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Two letters of recommendation from faculty members or individuals who have first-hand knowledge of the applicant’s academic or professional capabilities
- A two-page (maximum) statement of intent and goals
Applicants might be asked to interview with at least one member of the program faculty or Admissions Committee. In addition, applicants may submit a portfolio that demonstrates work experience. Internship experience for recent graduates will also be considered.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts for college academic policies.
Master's Degree
Master's Level Certificate
■ Computer Game Design
Performing Arts Building, Room A407
Phone: 703-993-1321
Web: cvpa.gmu.edu/game-design
Faculty
Scott Martin, Program Director
Associate Professor: Martin (program director)
Term Assistant Professor: Wren
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM
The 120 credit Computer Game Design program enables students to focus on the artistic components of computer game design while providing them with the technical skills prerequisite to the field. Required courses include computer science, art and visual technology, music, the humanities, and computer game design. The required internship provides students with practical experience that enhances their employability postgraduation.
Course Work
The Computer Game Design Program offers all course work designated GAME in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
Writing-Intensive Requirement
The university requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their majors at the 300 level or above. Students seeking a BFA in computer game design should speak with the program director about this requirement.
Upper-Level Credits
All undergraduate students are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits of upper-division courses at the 300-499 level.
Major GPA
All GAME undergraduate students must earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in their major.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts for college academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
■ Dance
Performing Arts Building, Room A300
Phone: 703-993-1114
Web: dance.gmu.edu
Faculty
Elizabeth Price, Chair
Professors: Lepore, Miller, Shields
Associate professors: Price (chair), Studd
Assistant professors: Joyce
Term Assistant Professors: Dinapoli, Fang, Reedy, Willis
Adjunct Faculty: Bush, Clancy, Cronmiller, Goodson, Koucheravy, Lee, Lees, Mattingly, Nuamah, Summerall, Volberg, Windom
Course Work
The Department of Dance offers all course work designated DANC in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
The Dance Department offers a BFA and a BA. Entrance to either program is by audition. Information about the audition process, including dates and audition application, can be found on the department web page, dance.gmu.edu, or by calling the department office at 703-993-1114. Admission to the university is determined by the Admissions Office.
Writing-Intensive Requirement
The university requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their major at the 300-level or above. Students in the BFA and BA in dance fulfill this requirement by successfully completing DANC 390 or 391.
Certification to Teach
This program is approved by the Virginia State Department of Education and administered through the College of Education and Human Development, which is accredited by the National Council for the accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). To be considered for licensure in dance education, a student must successfully complete requirements for a BA or BFA in dance. In addition, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be formally accepted into the program by the Dance Education Committee. Before requesting an interview with the committee, students must complete 45 to 60 credits with a GPA of 2.80 or higher, and submit passing scores for the Praxis I tests (Reading, Writing, Mathematics). It is strongly recommended that students take the Praxis I tests as soon as they have completed ENGL 302, a course in literature, and a course in mathematics.
- Earn no grade lower than a C in dance (see major curriculum) and in professional education courses (EDUC 300, 302; EDRD 300; DANC 453, 454).
- Maintain an overall GPA of 2.80 or higher in all dance course work at Mason and at all other institutions of higher learning combined.
- As dance elective options, complete DANC 118 World Dance, DANC 453 Teaching Creative Movement, and DANC 131 Beginning Jazz Technique or 231 Intermediate Jazz Technique.
- With committee approval, register for and complete EDUC 300 and 302 and EDRD 300.
- After completing all required course work and with committee approval, submit passing scores on the VLCA and complete a full-time 15-week student teaching internship (DANC 455) that includes experiences at both elementary and middle or secondary levels.
This course of study will require a postbaccalaureate semester.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts for college academic policies.
GRADUATE PROGRAM
The MFA in dance is a 60-credit program of study grounded in the modern dance genre that emphasizes performance, choreography, and teaching in higher education. Candidates are expected to enter the program with significant professional performance at the national or international level, advanced technical proficiency in ballet or modern technique, and professional competence in choreography exemplified by a significant body of work.
Admission Requirements
In addition to fulfilling the admission requirements for graduate study, the applicant must submit directly to the Dance Department a résumé and a 10-minute video that illustrates the applicant’s choreography. All candidates must also demonstrate advanced technical proficiency through an audition. Contact the Dance Department at 703-993-1114 for dates and times.
All candidates must satisfy the following prerequisites: advanced dance technique, improvisation, two semesters of dance composition, two semesters of dance history, rhythmic analysis or music for dance, anatomy and kinesiology, and dance production. Prerequisite courses may be completed before or concurrent with graduate course work and are usually fulfilled if the applicant has earned a BA or BFA in dance.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts for college academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
Undergraduate Minor
Master's Degree
■ Film and Video Studies
Performing Arts Building, Room A407
Phone: 703-993-1992
Web: www.gmu.edu/cvpa/favs
Faculty
Cynthia Lont, Program Director
Clayton Austin, Theater; Thomas Britt, Film and Video Studies; Julie Christensen, Modern and Classical Languages; Mark Cooley, Art and Visual Technology; Lynne Constantine, Art and Visual Technology; Edgar Endress, Art and Visual Technology; Peggy Feerick, Art and Visual Technology; Cynthia Fuchs, English; Edward Gero, Theater; Timothy Gibson, Communication; Carma Hinton, Robinson Professor; Richard Kamenitzer, Arts Management; Howard Kurtz, Theater; Alison Landsberg, History and Art History; Scott Martin, Arts Management; Kristina Olsen, Modern and Classical Languages; Paula Petrik, History and Art History; Janine Ricouart, Modern and Classical Languages; Mark Sample, English; Jessica Scarlata, English; Gail Scott White, Art and Visual Technology; Martin Winkler, Modern and Classical Languages; Sue Wrbican, Art and Visual Technology
Course Work
The Film and Video Studies Program offers all course work designated FAVS in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
PROGRAM
The Film and Video Studies Program offers a 120-credit multidisciplinary BA degree, which spans many units including Art and Visual Technology, Communication, English, History and Art History, Modern and Classical Languages, New Century College, and Theater. Students study film and video production, theory, criticism, ethics, screenwriting, and business.
The vocabulary of film (broadly defined) now pervades the intellectual, cultural, political, and social landscape. The tools the filmmaker wields apply to an ever-widening range of tasks across the fields of human endeavor, from traditional narrative and documentary productions to academic research and pedagogical applications to projects of personal expression. Emerging technology makes the means of production available to anyone with access to a moderate level of computing power. This combination of factors makes film an important subject for academic inquiry and training.
Writing-Intensive Requirement
The university requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their majors at the 300 level or above. Students seeking a BA in film and video studies fulfill this requirement by completing THR 482.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts for college academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
■ Music
Performing Arts Building, Room A417
Phone: 703-993-1380
Web: gmu.edu/departments/music
Faculty
James Gardner, Chair
Professors: Camphouse, Carroll, Engebretson, J. Gardner (chair), Maiello, Miller, Monson (associate chair), Smith
Term professor: Balakerskaia, Hearden, Johonnott, Lapple
Associate professors: Billingham, T. Owens
Term associate professors: Casagrande, Ker-Hackleman, Rendler
Assistant professors: Bergman, Guessford, Nickens, Novak, Robinson
Adjunct Faculty: Beach, Beckwith, Behrend, Berkshire-Brown, Berger, Conlon, Crabill, East, Gerber, Haroutounian, Healey, Hughes, Kilkenny, McCarthy, M. Owens, Parrell, Rittenhouse, Roberts, Snitzler, Stephansky, Sternbach, Taylor, von Villas, Watters, Wenner
Course Work
The Music Department offers all course work designated MUSI in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
The two undergraduate degree programs offered through the Department of Music, the bachelor of art (BA) in music and the bachelor of music (BM), prepare students for graduate work in music and music literature; research and professional work in musical activities; and state licensure, or certification, to teach vocal and choral or instrumental music at the elementary and secondary school levels.
Through its strategic plan, Music Outreach and the Teaching Professions, the department enables students to pursue worthwhile vocational goals as teachers, performers, conductors, and composers. The department also seeks to educate its students to reflect a concern for cultural and humanistic values as future ambassadors and advocates of music and other arts. Through innovative learning experiences, the department provides all students in the BA and BM programs with opportunities to become effective musicians, teachers, and advocates of music. Teaching music is the principal area in which students can find employment in private studios, public and private schools, academies, and higher education within the ever-changing workplace. Because of this, all music majors at Mason receive some training in the teaching of music.
The department also recognizes the critical outreach role it provides in serving students from all majors, as well as members of the community who significantly benefit from the values and experiences of an education in music. The department seeks to provide unique educational opportunities through its various course offerings, workshops, presentations, and performances for those seeking music enrichment.
Entrance to all music degree programs is by audition. Arrangements for an audition must be made in advance by contacting the Department of Music before the scheduled audition date. Auditions are held approximately once per month. Audition dates and audition application forms are available through the music department web site: gmu.edu/departments/music.
A fundamentals of music test is given during the first week of classes to all students enrolled in MUSI 115 Theory I. Call the Department of Music at 703-993-1380 for additional information.
Competency placement tests are required of all transfer students who wish to present transfer credit in any of the following areas: sight singing, ear training, and keyboard skills.
Students must earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in their major or higher, if required by their program.
Writing-Intensive Requirement
Mason requires all students to complete at least one course designated “writing intensive” in their major at the 300 level or above. Students majoring in music may fulfill this requirement by successfully completing MUSI 332. Students who transfer this course into Mason may be required to repeat it or enroll in some other suitable course to fulfill the writing intensive requirement.
Teacher Licensure
Undergraduate students seeking certification to teach vocal and choral or instrumental music at the elementary and secondary levels must earn the BM degree as specified under Concentration in Music Education section in this chapter. Students who have earned a baccalaureate degree and are seeking state licensure to teach music must also complete this sequence of courses, which constitute a state-approved program for teacher education in music.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
The PhD in music education and the doctor of musical arts degree require 60 credits beyond the master’s degree in music.
Graduate Certificates
Instrumental Performance Artist Graduate Certificate
The certificate is a specialized, graduate-level program for advanced musicians who desire to further develop and refine their performance art. The certificate program is a two-year course of study requiring at least two consecutive semesters of residence. A total of 32 credits is required. Advisor’s approval is required for each semester’s enrollment.
Piano Performance Artist Certificate
The certificate is a specialized, graduate-level program for advanced musicians who desire to further develop and refine their performance art. The certificate program is a two-year course of study requiring at least two consecutive semesters of residence. A total of 32 credits is required. Advisor’s approval is required for each semester’s enrollment.
Vocal Performance Artist Graduate Certificate
The certificate is a specialized, graduate-level program for advanced musicians who desire to further develop and refine their performance art. The certificate program is a two-year course of study requiring at least two consecutive semesters of residence. A total of 32 credits is required. Advisor’s approval is required for each semester’s enrollment.
Music, MM
The expansion of professional education in the arts is paramount for the growth and development of a rich and vital cultural community and a supporting network of individual artists. The dynamics of contemporary society suggest that the influence of the arts on public life will continue to expand well into the 21st century. Each year, opportunities increase for creative work by performers, composers, sculptors, painters, dancers, actors, historians, theoreticians, and musicologists.
The MM degree is offered as an educational channel to meet the intellectual and career needs of qualified students. It is a comprehensive and advanced program of study with a choice of concentrations in performance (single or multiple instruments), music education, composition, conducting, and pedagogy and performance. The MM with a concentration in music education does not provide licensure to teach music in public or private schools.
PhD in Music Education (pending SCHEV approval)
The PhD in music education, a research-intensive degree, focuses on the gathering, processing, and interpretation of information. Students in the PhD program take seminars and topics courses in music education, as well as research courses through the College of Education and Human Development. PhD graduates are expected to demonstrate the ability to communicate significant concepts of music education.
Doctor of Music Arts (pending SCHEV approval)
The doctor of musical arts concentrations are composition, conducting, and performance. While these concentrations share some of the required course work, each is also distinct in course requirements. Professional musicians earn the DMA to enhance and extend their knowledge and practice within their area of specialization. The DMA student focuses on the profession of music performance, as well as the theory and practice of the discipline. DMA graduates are qualified to teach music at the college or university level, as well as K–12.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Minor
Undergraduate Minor
Master's Degree
Master's Level Certificate
Doctoral Degree
■ Theater
Performing Arts Building, Room A407
Phone: 703-993-1120
Web: gmu.edu/departments/theater
Faculty
Clayton Austin, Chair
Professors: D’Andrea (Robinson professor), Davis
Associate professors: Austin, Elston, Gero, Johnsen-Neshati, Kurtz, McDonald
Term associate professor: Chew
Adjunct Faculty: Cetron, Lechter, Lee, McManus, Mountain, Murray, Nanni-Messegee, Wallace
Course Work
The Theater Department offers all course work designated THR in the Courses chapter of this catalog.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM
The BA degree stresses the breadth of a liberal arts education in the belief that such study, combined with serious practical training and experience, offers the best preparation for a life in the theater. Students electing to major in theater complete the theater core, which is a group of courses providing a broad introduction to the various theater arts and striving to create a shared body of knowledge within the department’s student population.
To organize their advanced work within the major, students elect a course of study that includes classes in at least two of three areas: performance, design and technical theater, and theater studies. The department aims to prepare students for graduate study or entry into the profession through rigorous, concentrated, and individualized training; however, students are encouraged to maintain wide-ranging interests within the department and throughout the university’s extensive offerings.
Students seeking to earn a BA as a second bachelor’s degree, either concurrently or sequentially, must complete all theater degree requirements including foreign language. Students must earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA in their major.
Theater Concentrations
Theater majors may apply to complete their degree in one of the following concentrations: Design and Technical Theater, Performance, Playwriting and Dramaturgy, or Theater Studies.
To apply for admission into a concentration a student must have:
- completed 45 credits including THR credits as specified in the concentration
- cumulative GPA minimum of 2.5
Writing-Intensive Requirement
The university requires all students to complete at least one course designated writing-intensive in their majors at the 300 level or above. Students seeking a BA in theater fulfill this requirement by successfully completing THR 350 or THR 351.
Honors in Theatre
Students wishing to pursue Honors in Theater should contact the department chair.
Production Opportunities
Participation in Theater Department productions with the GMU Players is expected of all declared majors. Up to 4 practicum credits, 1 credit per assignment can be awarded for satisfactory completion of performance and production assignments in the major, including faculty or guest-directed GMU Players main stage, studio, or Theater of the First Amendment (TFA) productions.
TFA, a professional theater in residence within CVPA, offers students the chance to work closely with professional artists. TFA productions regularly employ student assistants in stage management, directing, design, dramaturgy, technical crews, and production and company management. Students are eligible to audition for age-appropriate roles or understudy assignments in TFA productions and may participate in the Membership Candidate Program through the Actors’ Equity Association.
Academic Policies
Please see College of Visual and Performing Arts academic policies.
Undergraduate Degree
Undergraduate Minor
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