Discover the Schar School

A Dynamic Education for an Evolving World

As a Washington, D.C. area professional, interdisciplinary school that melds theory with practice, the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University offers cutting-edge degree programs taught by professors with real-world experience.

Schar campus grad map

Strategically Located

In addition to having the federal government in our backyard, the Washington D.C., region is home to government contractors, hundreds of nonprofit organizations, 19 Fortune 500 companies, and hundreds of tech companies where you can apply your classroom knowledge, test out career choices, find internships, and make valuable contacts.

Connect Directly with Our Graduate Admissions Team

Schedule a one-on-one appointment with a member of the graduate admissions team for an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your academic and professional goals, and learn more about our degree programs and admissions process.

Master's Degree Programs

Biodefense, MS
>> Asynchronous online format also available
Master the analytical skills and knowledge needed to assess national and international security risks posed by natural and man-made biological threats.

Global Commerce and Policy, MA
>> Asynchronous online format also available
Broader than an MBA and more focused than a degree in international affairs, this master’s program immerses you in the nexus of business, economics, international relations, and public policy.

International Security, MA
>> Synchronous online format also available
Prepare to assess and manage traditional security threats and the emerging security challenges of the 21st century.

Organization Development & Knowledge Management, MS
>> Synchronous online format also available
Develop the essential leadership, creative problem-solving, and analytical skills needed to become a change agent in your organization. 

Political Science, MA
Deepen your understanding of political processes and gain research-focused expertise in American politics, comparative politics, and international relations.

Public Administration, MPA
>> Synchronous online format also available
Gain a comprehensive understanding of how leadership, management, policy, and politics intersect. Optional concentrations allow you to hone in on subjects ranging from emergency management and nonprofit management to public and nonprofit finance.

Public Policy, MPP
>> Synchronous online format also available
Effective public policies advance the public good. Master the analytical thinking and knowledge needed to address a vast range of public concerns, including terrorism, human trafficking, gender studies, environmental hazards, and hunger. 

PhD Programs

Biodefense, PhD
Gain a background in the science and technology of biodefense as well as specialized areas of threat assessment, non-proliferation, and medical and public health preparedness.

Political Science, PhD
Prepare to teach, conduct research, and influence decision-makers across the political landscape. Graduates of this program pursue leadership positions in academia as well as with think tanks, international bodies, NGOs, journals of political opinion, and congressional and executive branch offices.  

Public Policy, PhD
Master policy analysis and implementation, and engage in creative and original research that helps society solve some of its most pressing problems.

Undergraduate Programs

Government & International Politics, BA
Learn to critically examine the complexities of national and international issues, as well as political issues, processes, and actors. Optional concentrations include International Relations, Comparative Politics, Political Analysis, and many others. 

International Security and Law, BA
This dynamic program combines national and international security and law and is designed to help students understand how to most effectively respond to them—from weather disasters to cyber attacks to nuclear proliferation and more.

Public Administration, BS
Public administration focuses on how public policy is implemented within society. Optional concentrations include Nonprofit Management, Public Policy, Economic Policy, and more.