Mason Core is Mason’s general education program that builds the foundation for the Mason Graduate – an engaged citizen and well-rounded scholar who is prepared to act in a global, diverse world. Mason Core prepares students for work in their majors and minors, for their careers, and for life-long learning. Mason Core accomplishes this goal through three sections of required course categories: Foundation, Exploration, and Integration.
Foundation courses build key knowledge and skills needed for academic success. Exploration courses provide a breadth of learning across the university. Integration courses include upper-division courses that are designed to integrate knowledge and skills learned from Foundation and Exploration courses into the major. Courses are designed around learning outcomes that help develop the qualities we expect of all students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree from George Mason University. All undergraduates seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete Mason Core requirements.
As a Standing Committee of Mason’s Faculty Senate, the Mason Core Committee is made up of 14 voting members. These members are responsible for maintaining the integrity of Mason’s general education program, and all proposed courses to Mason Core must be approved by a majority vote of the Committee.
Mason Core Committee meetings are held throughout the academic year. Review upcoming meeting dates, the most recent meeting agenda, and previous meeting minutes to stay informed. Stay up to date on Mason Core updates by subscribing to our Mason Core Newsletter.
Mason Core Curriculum
For a detailed overview of Mason Core categories and requirements, start with our Categories page. Students should refer to their specific catalog year and speak with their academic advisor to ensure they’re on track.
Mason Core is currently undergoing a variety of enhancements to better prepare students to be scholars and citizens who thrive in a diverse, global world. Read more about these Mason Core enhancements and check our FAQs if you still have questions on how these changes might impact you.
If you are a student interested in submitting an appeal for Mason Core course credit, please refer to the Undergraduate Appeals, Academic Requests, and Exceptions to Policy and reach out to your advisor for support.
Contact Our Team
Still have questions? Please contact our team for assistance using our Mason Core email address, masoncor@gmu.edu.