Mason Core is George Mason University’s general education program and includes a wide array of required courses. The course categories are divided into three levels: 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-level courses that are designed to synthesize knowledge and skills learned from Foundation and Exploration courses and apply them to the major. Mason Core courses are designed around learning outcomes that help develop the qualities expected of all students graduating with a bachelor’s degree from George Mason University.
For certain degrees or majors, specific courses may be used to fulfill the Mason Core requirements. Students should refer to the University Catalog and their academic advisor to understand the specific requirements for their academic program. Refer to the current catalog for approved Mason Core courses and accurate course descriptions. For courses that have been approved or had their designation removed during the academic year after catalog publication, please see our Newly Approved Courses and Removed Courses pages.
Mason Core Levels
Foundation (12 credits)
Foundation requirements help ensure that students master the tools and techniques necessary to succeed in college and throughout their lives and careers. These courses emphasize skills—in writing, speaking, and working with numbers and technology—that can be applied to any major field of study and career.
Exploration (22 credits)
Exploration courses ensure that students experience subject matter and ways of knowing in a variety of fields so that they are better able to synthesize new knowledge, respond to fresh challenges, and meet the demands of a complex world.
Integration (9 credits)
Integration requirements represent the culmination of knowledge and skills learned throughout a student’s undergraduate career at George Mason, both through the Foundation and Exploration levels of Mason Core and through the coursework within their majors. Within a disciplinary context, students further refine the communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are imperative for their careers, for engaging in the world around them, and for life-long learning.
All Integration-level requirements must be completed at George Mason and generally cannot be satisfied through transfer credit. These courses are integral to the university’s educational philosophy and ensure that all graduates demonstrate proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and integrative learning consistent with the university’s standards. Rare exceptions to this policy may only be granted by the Provost’s Office.
Retired Mason Core Requirements
Some courses may fulfill Mason Core requirements that have been retired and are not listed in the current catalog. These requirements may be applicable for students enrolled in older catalog years. These students should refer to the University Catalog Archives to reference the Mason Core requirements for their catalog year. These retired requirements include:
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