College Code: UN

Course Offerings

BA in Applied Science (BAS)

BAS Course Schedule

300 Level Courses

BAS 300: Building Professional Competencies. 3 credits.
This course serves as an orientation to the BAS degree program. Current strengths are assessed and future planning is highlighted. Core competency areas related to personal effectiveness and academic/workplace success are stressed. Introduction to the university online learning system and other available resources useful for degree completion are also emphasized. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: ENGH 100*C or 101*C.
* May be taken concurrently.
C Requires minimum grade of C.

Enrollment limited to students in a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

BAS 490: Introduction to Research Methods. 3 credits.
This course introduces students to fundamental research methods and processes. Students will explore their research interests and identify one topic as well as learn to set up research questions, review literature, and define appropriate methods for data collection. This course intends to prepare students for their practicum study in BAS 491. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BAS 300C or 300XS) and ENGH 302*C.
* May be taken concurrently.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior Plus, Senior Plus or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Applied Science.

Enrollment limited to students in the UN-BAS-APLS program.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BAS 491: Applied Sciences Capstone. 3 credits.
Students participate in an approved fieldwork study program and complete a research project as identified in BAS 490 Introduction to Research Methods. The Capstone project involves choosing and researching a workplace problem; designing, implementing and evaluating a specific plan of action; and formally presenting the project once completed. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BAS 490C or 490XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior Plus, Senior Plus or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Applied Science.

Schedule Type: Research
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BAS 492: Capstone Development. 3 credits.
Students will learn and prepare professional objectives during the semester. Actionable objectives include the creation of a portfolio, reflections on personal experience, and direct association with their field of study. The course will use reflections, professional interviews, and peer plus instructor critiques. This course intends to prepare students for their practicum study in BAS 493. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BAS 300C or 300XS) and ENGH 302*C.
* May be taken concurrently.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior Plus, Senior Plus or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Cloud Computing or Cybersecurity.

Enrollment limited to students in a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
BAS 493: BAS Capstone. 3 credits.
Students participate in an approved fieldwork study program defined in BAS 492, integrating knowledge from coursework and synthesizing it in practical application. The Capstone project includes workplace experience, class discussion, continuous learning requirements, and a final project presentation. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BAS 492C or 492XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior Plus, Senior Plus or Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Cloud Computing or Cybersecurity.

Enrollment limited to students in a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.

Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

Conservation Studies (CONS)

CONS Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

CONS 100: Introduction to Field Conservation Ecology. 2 credits.
In this immersive 1-week experience, high school students will acquire firsthand exposure to fieldwork in conservation and how conservation professionals contribute to survival of species in natural habitats. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, fieldwork and outdoor adventure students will be introduced to major concepts of ecology (including diversity, succession, species interactions, communities, populations and ecosystems) in the context of species and habitat conservation. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 110: Special Topics in Conservation. 1-3 credits.
Students acquire first-hand exposure to a specific topic in conservation and how conservation professionals contribute to the long-term survival of species. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and field/lab work, students explore current questions, methods and applications related to a particular topic in conservation. Course Format: Sections of this Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation course will be taught as an intensive, mixed-format (lectures, lab exercises, field exercises) offerings, in residential, full-day, 1-3-week sessions held at the 3,200 acre Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, VA. Students may also be required to complete pre-course reading assignments, and carry out and submit final projects during (or within six weeks after) the onsite session. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 120: Wicked Problems and Grand Challenges. 3 credits.
Wicked Problems and Grand Challenges focuses on teaching principals and practice of next generation approaches for conservation and development with a problem-oriented approach. This course will review how we may harness the power of emerging exponential technologies (e.g. gene editing, machine vision, and robotics), open innovation (e.g. prizes, challenges, mass collaboration, and citizen science), and entrepreneurship (e.g. for-profit, hybrid, and open source models for scale) inside both the public and private sector to transform the efficacy and scale of conservation and development efforts. This course will review the current problem sets in conservation and development, rethink assumptions regarding how to address them, and consider real case examples of successes and failures. Finally, we will also bring in select leading social innovators and development experts who have pioneered new approaches to wicked problems. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

200 Level Courses

CONS 201: How to Succeed in Conservation. 2 credits.
Develops professional and personal skills needed to succeed in the field of conservation. Gives an overview of best practices in conservation, as well as self-promotion and professional engagement skills (networking, social media use, online presence). Skills learned include leadership, communication, community engagement, outreach, social marketing, and conflict resolution. Introduces the range of careers and integration of disciplines in conservation. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 210: Inquiry and Design. 3 credits.
This course builds skills in scientific inquiry and experimental design as it relates to biodiversity conservation. Students will be introduced to the scientific method and how to select research questions. They will develop an independent project enabling them to practice developing a hypothesis, design a study, perform a literature review, collect and analyze original data using summary statistics, and present their findings to their peers. This class will build from the CONS 120 Grand Challenges in Conservation course and introduce methods from social sciences and quantitative analysis, to enable students to decide which follow-up data analysis course is most appropriate for their interests. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisite: CONS 120C.
C Requires minimum grade of C.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

CONS 320: Conservation in Practice. 3 credits.
Work with a conservation mentor in a practicum experience. Create a portfolio documenting professional development. Notes: Must be taken concurrently with CONS 401, CONS 402, CONS 410, and CONS 490 Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: A college level biological or
Recommended Corequisite: environmental science course. CONS 401, CONS 402, CONS 410, and CONS 490.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 332: Insect Biology. 4 credits.
Insects are the most diverse group of land animals on earth and as such the study of their form and function can inform a strong understanding of ecological function and diversity. Through asynchronous online lecture as well as synchronous online recitation, students will explore the morphology, taxonomy and ecology of a wide diversity of insect specimens. In a one-week, in-person residential experience at the SMSC campus at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, VA students will have the opportunity to learn and practice a wide range of entomological sampling techniques as well as practice identification skills. Special emphasis will be placed in the course to connect the form and structure of insects to how they function in the ecosystem, so students can continue to observe and study this fascinating group of animals in the future. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 340: Introduction to Ecological Data Analysis. 3 credits.
Understanding data collected in ecological and biological research requires knowledge of the appropriate analyses often required for dealing with the type and characteristics of these data. In addition, there are many approaches that are both unique to these fields and extremely useful in understanding organisms and ecosystems. This course will provide an overview of a variety of analytical approaches, including both introductory statistical concepts as well as additional analyses useful for biologist and ecologists (e.g. diversity indices, mark-recapture and occupancy, ordination, etc.). Mapping and spatial analyses will also be addressed. Most analyses will be performed in Microsoft Excel, with a brief introduction to the R statistical computing environment also provided. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 360: Qualitative Research and Inquiry. 3 credits.
This course introduces students to qualitative research and inquiry related to the social and biological aspects of biodiversity conservation. Students will develop understanding of qualitative research methodology and data collection through case studies of empirical research about contemporary issues. Students will examine the diverse foundational assumptions, project designs, methods of acquiring data, analytical techniques, interpretive strategies, and ethical and political considerations that characterize contemporary research in this field today. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 214C or STAT 250C).
C Requires minimum grade of C.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

CONS 400: Conservation Seminar. 2 credits.
Examines key conservation issues, based on readings and discussions from the primary literature. Teaches professional development skills for scientists in conservation including fundraising, poster presentations, and interpretation of findings for diverse audiences. Develops skills for obtaining internships, jobs, or graduate positions. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits. Equivalent to BIOL 351.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 401: Conservation Theory. 3 credits.
Introduces the field of conservation biology and science-based management of threatened wildlife, habitats, and human landscapes. Provides theoretical background for understanding the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainability. Notes: Must be taken concurrently with CONS 320, CONS 402, CONS 410, and CONS 490. Students cannot get credit for this course and Biology 318 or NCLC 401. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: A college level biological or
Recommended Corequisite: environmental science course. CONS 320, CONS 402, CONS 410, and CONS 490.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 402: Applied Conservation. 4 credits.
A practical scientific approach to the nature of biodiversity and species loss. Students participate in field conservation exercises in a variety of settings, as well as endocrine and reproductive technology labs. Students apply field and laboratory experiences to understanding science's connection to management decision-making for conservation. Notes: Must be taken concurrently with CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 410, and CONS 490. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: A college level biological or
Recommended Corequisite: environmental science course. CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 410, and CONS 490.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 404: Biodiversity Monitoring. 4 credits.
Covers the assessment, monitoring and conservation of species and habitats as well as the tools for sampling species and habitats and the evaluation of those tools' effectiveness. Students use this practical, hands-on knowledge to prepare a series of reports and recommendations for future work. This practical, hands-on knowledge is used to prepare plans and recommendations for future work. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIOL 352.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 405: Landscape and Macrosystems Ecology. 4 credits.
Identify and characterize patterns in landscapes, investigate how they form and change over time, and consider anthropogenic influences. Model populations and communities across landscapes, and consider ways of managing them to achieve goals in managing species and ecosystem processes at local, regional, and continental scales. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 406: Small Population Management. 4 credits.
Investigates species vulnerability to extinction and the methodologies of preserving genetic diversity in small populations, both in the wild and in captivity. Teaches modeling and laboratory techniques that promote successful captive breeding, such as hormone analysis and assisted reproductive techniques, as well as working with data in R. Examines captive species in the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute to learn husbandry practices and skills from keepers and biologists. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 410: Human Dimensions in Conservation. 3 credits.
Provides sociological, local and global perspectives on conservation issues including adaptive management, conflict resolution, environmental economics, sustainability, public policy, environmental values and public opinion, and conservation ethics. Notes: Must be taken concurrently with CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 402, and CONS 490. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Social/Behavioral Sciences, Encore: Sustainability
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course, Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: A college level biological or
Recommended Corequisite: environmental science course. CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 402, and CONS 490.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 440: Ecology Field Skills. 4 credits.
Directed field studies emphasizing ecology and behavior. Topics vary but include design of field manipulation , data collection and analysis, and introduction to organisms of study site. May include field trips. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIOL 357, EVPP 440.
Recommended Prerequisite: BIOL308 or BIOL310 (or equivalent course), or INTS 401 Conservation Biology
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 460: Statistics and Study Design in Ecology and Conservation. 3 credits.
An understanding of statistics and study design is essential to success in the fields of ecology and conservation. However, many of the analyses of greatest utility for ecological data are frequently unable to be addressed in introductory courses, while advanced courses often delve deeply into a limited set of techniques. This course bridges this gap: building on knowledge obtained in introductory courses, additional techniques appropriate to many forms of ecological data and more advanced approaches will be introduced. This course will address the fundamentals of study design, linking choices made when establishing a research project to the types of analyses appropriate to the chosen design. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the output of analyses, and separating statistical significance from biological or ecological significance. Additionally, skills in data manipulation, analyses, and graphics using the R statistical computing environment will be developed. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 214C, 214XS, SOCI 213C, 213XS, STAT 250C, 250XS, CONS 404C or 404XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 472: Introduction to Animal Behavior. 3 credits.
Study of mechanisms, functions, and evolution of animal behavior. Topics such as avoiding predators, finding food, migration, communication, reproductive systems, mating behavior, parental care, sociality and cooperation will be explored. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to BIOL 472.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 480: Primate Behavior, Ecology and Conservation. 3 credits.
Using primates as a focal taxon, this two-week course examines the theoretical background on how ecology, behavior, and life history influence primate abundance, distribution, and population dynamics. Teaches data collection methods for primate behavior studies, survey methods and habitat assessment techniques. Topics include several conservation-related case studies. Includes the development of a research proposal concerning primate socio-ecological strategies to address larger conservation issues. Notes: Students have the option to register for an “add-on” field experience course, CONS 497 “Primate Behavior and Conservation in Peru”, through the Mason Study Abroad Global Education Office (GEO). In this course, students conduct independent research on primate species in the wild. The course takes place at the Los Amigos Biological Research Station in Peru. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: This course is open to 3rd and 4th year undergraduate students who have obtained a minimum GPA of 2.25. The course is also open to recent graduates, non-degree seeking students and non-Mason students.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 490: RS: Integrated Conservation Strategies. 3 credits.
Integrates the course work of the Smithsonian-Mason Semester through study of current conservation issues. Students incorporate interdisciplinary aspects of conservation into a summative group case study on a chosen conservation issue and present formally before a faculty panel. Notes: Must be taken concurrently with CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 402, and CONS 410. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex, Encore: Sustainability
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: A college level biological or
Recommended Corequisite: environmental science course. CONS 320, CONS 401, CONS 402, and CONS 410.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 491: RS: Conservation Management Planning. 4 credits.
Explores strategies and decisions that help secure the long-term survival of threatened species and habitats. Focuses on the planning tools necessary to define and set conservation goals and quantitatively assess species and areas of conservation value and prioritization. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex, Encore: Sustainability
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Research/Scholarship Intensive
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 495: Capstone in Conservation Strategies. 4 credits.
Students work in teams to develop a conservation plan concerning a current, challenging conservation issue with local relevance or global reach. Students use an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach to examine the topic, incorporate science-based research and evidence, and develop practical solutions for some of the world’s most pressing conservation challenges. Students will engage with various conservation practitioners to help direct project goals and develop communication plans for appropriate audiences. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: An approved upper-division course, preferably with a conservation focus. Students must have completed at least 85 credits, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 496: Research in Conservation. 6 credits.
One-on-one research experience with a conservation practitioner over 5 weeks (about 36 hours per week) on a conservation research project associated with that practitioner's program. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact., Research/Scholarship Intensive
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 308C, 308XS, EVPP 301C, 301XS, 302C, 302XS, BIOL 377C, 377XS, EVPP 377C, 377XS, INTS 401C or 401XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 497: Special Topics in Conservation. 1-4 credits.
Topics of current relevance to the field of conservation. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 498: Internship. 1-3 credits.
Directed readings and final reflective paper or project in conjunction with an internship subject to instructor approval. Permission to enroll must be obtained from the Mason Center for Conservation Studies at least two weeks prior to the start of the semester. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
CONS 499: Independent Study/Research. 1-3 credits.
An independent project or directed exploration into an area of conservation not covered by other courses. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

500 Level Courses

CONS 503: Conservation Behavior. 4 credits.
Introduces students to the fundamentals of Conservation Behavior, a field that seeks to apply theories of animal behavior towards solving biological conservation and wildlife management problems. The course will consist of interactive lectures, readings (including a text and primary literature), and discussion. Additionally, students will get hands-on, inquiry-based experiential learning while working in groups at the National Zoo to design and conduct independent behavioral-based research on endangered species. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 540: Ecology Field Skills. 4 credits.
Graduate level directed field studies emphasizing ecology and behavior. Topics vary but include design of field manipulations, data collection and analysis, and introduction to organisms of study site. May include field trips. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: BIOL 308 or BIOL 310, or EVPP 305 and EVPP 306, or INTS 401 or equivalent course
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 560: Statistics and Study Design in Ecology and Conservation. 3 credits.
An understanding of statistics and study design is essential to success in the fields of ecology and conservation. However, many of the analyses of greatest utility for ecological data are frequently unable to be addressed in introductory courses, while advanced courses often delve deeply into a limited set of techniques. This course bridges this gap: building on knowledge obtained in introductory courses, additional techniques appropriate to many forms of ecological data and more advanced approaches will be introduced. This course will address the fundamentals of study design, linking choices made when establishing a research project to the types of analyses appropriate to the chosen design. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the output of analyses, and separating statistical significance from biological or ecological significance. Additionally, skills in data manipulation, analyses, and graphics using the R statistical computing environment will be developed. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (BIOL 214C, 214XS, SOCI 213C, 213XS, STAT 250C, 250XS, CONS 404C or 404XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 580: Primate Behavior, Ecology and Conservation. 3 credits.
Using primates as a focal taxon, this two-week course examines the theoretical background on how ecology, behavior, and life history influence primate abundance, distribution, and population dynamics. Teaches data collection methods for primate behavior studies, survey methods and habitat assessment techniques. Topics include several conservation-related case studies. Includes the development of a research proposal concerning primate socio-ecological strategies to address larger conservation issues. Notes: Students have the option to register for an “add-on” field experience course, CONS 497 “Primate Behavior and Conservation in Peru”, through the Mason Study Abroad Global Education Office (GEO). In this course, students conduct independent research on primate species in the wild. The course takes place at the Los Amigos Biological Research Station in Peru. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: This course is open to graduate students who have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.0. The course is also open to non-Mason students.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 597: Special Topics in Conservation. 1-4 credits.
Topics of current relevance to the field of conservation. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

600 Level Courses

CONS 625: Generalized Linear and Mixed Models in Ecology and Conservation Biology. 3 credits.
This regression-based analytical course combines lectures on theory and concepts with significant time practicing statistical tools within the R environment. The course concludes with a final project module where participants work independently to conduct a full analysis of a provided dataset and present their results. This course covers: probability theory, random variables and statistical distributions, linear models, generalized linear models, model diagnostics, data transformations, visualizing results, missing data and collinearity. Offered through the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in cooperation with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute on site in Front Royal, VA. This course is taught as an intensive, mixed format (lectures, computer work) offering, in a residential full-day (8:30am-6pm), 2 week session with some optional night sessions. Course includes a required Saturday morning session. Sunday is a free day. An online asynchronous format is also offered. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Basic statistics course
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 630: Species Monitoring & Conservation. 3 credits.
Explores monitoring and conservation research methods and approaches for specific taxa through lectures, case studies, lab exercises, and field work. Each course includes not only significant time in the field practicing field data collection methods but also significant time in the computer lab learning the latest data analysis tools. Notes: Offered through the Smithsonian - Mason School of Conservation Studies in cooperation with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute on site in Front Royal, VA. Course Format: This course is taught as an intensive, mixed format (lectures and computer work) offering, in a residential full-day (8:30am-6pm), 2 week session. Students complete pre-course assignments, and are graded in participation, computer exercises and a final exam. Some night and early morning sessions may occur. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: A general biology (or relevant species-related) course and a statistics course, or permission of instructor. Prior coursework in environmental science, zoology and ecology recommended.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 645: Estimating Animal Abundance and Occupancy. 3 credits.
Provides a strong theoretical and analytical background to the current and accepted methods of estimating population parameters including abundance, occupancy, survival, and population change. The course teaches study design, implementation and analysis of data from distance sampling, mark-recapture, and occupancy modeling techniques, with all analysis performed and practiced in the program R. Time is provided throughout for work on a student's own data/project with help of instructors. Offered through the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in cooperation with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute on site in Front Royal, VA. Course Format: This course is taught as an intensive, mixed format (lectures, computer work) offering, in a residential full-day (8:30am-6pm), 2-week session. Students complete pre-course assignments, are graded in participation, computer exercises and a final exam. Night sessions may occur, there is a full day of class on Saturday. Sunday is free. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: College-level introductory statistics course.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
CONS 697: Special Topics in Conservation. 1-3 credits.
Topics of current relevance to the field of conservation. Notes: May be repeated for credit with approval of the Smithsonian Mason School of Conservation. Offered through the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in cooperation with the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute on site in Front Royal, VA. Course Format: These courses are taught as an intensive, mixed format (lectures and computer work) offering, in a residential full-day (8:30am-6pm), 1 week, 10 day or 2 week session, as well as an 8 week online asynchronous format depending on the course/section. Students complete pre-course assignments, and are graded in participation, computer exercises and a final exam or project. Some night sessions may occur for on-site courses, which may also include some weekend class days. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

Global Education Office (GEOC)

GEOC Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

GEOC 100: WSI: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Washington Summer Institute: Special Topics Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 108: Global Gateway. 0-1 credits.
Global Gateway Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 150: International Experience: Global Contexts. 0 credits.
This course is designed for students studying abroad for a full semester (e.g. 12-15 credits and not a three week course) to fulfill their Mason Core Global Contexts requirement. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Global Contexts, Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
GEOC 151: International Experience: Natural Science Non-lab. 0 credits.
This course is designed for student studying abroad for a full semester (e.g. 12-15 credits and not a three week course) to fulfill their Mason Core Natural Science Non-lab requirement. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Natural Science Overview
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

200 Level Courses

GEOC 200: WSI: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Washington Summer Institute: Special Topics Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 201: Preparing for Study Abroad. 0-1 credits.
Preparing for Study Abroad Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 202: While Abroad: Special Topics. 0-1 credits.
While Abroad: Special Topics. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 3 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 203: Returning from Abroad. 0-1 credits.
Returning from Abroad Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

GEOC 300: WSI: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Washington Summer Institute: Special Topics. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
GEOC 345: Global Discovery: Special Topics. 0-3 credits.
Global Discovery: Special Topics Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

Military Science (MLSC)

MLSC Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

MLSC 100: Introduction to Army/ROTC. 1 credit.
Introduces leadership values and ethics; responsibilities of officership; the organization, customs, and traditions of the U.S. Army; time management; and physical well-being. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
MLSC 102: Leadership Skills II. 1 credit.
Introduces leadership principles, dimensions, styles, and assessment, among other varied topics. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

200 Level Courses

MLSC 200: Self/Team Development. 1 credit.
Covers leadership skills, such as values and ethics. Also teaches how to influence, how to communicate, how and when to make decisions, how to engage in creative problem solving, and how to plan and organize. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
MLSC 202: Leadership Skills IV. 1 credit.
Builds on the leadership skills developed in Leadership Skills III with additional emphasis on communication, team building, and team leadership. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: MLSC 100 level completion/dual enrollment.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

MLSC 300: Applied Leadership I. 1 credit.
Applied leadership with an introduction to the principles of physical fitness and healthy lifestyle; counseling as means of subordinate development; problem solving; operational analysis, development, and execution; and methods for preparing and presenting instruction. Students are given an introduction to the Leader Development Program that is used to evaluate their leadership performance and provide students with developmental feedback. Some weekend training required. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: MLSC 100, 101, 200, or veterans status, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
MLSC 302: Applied Leadership II. 1 credit.
Applied leadership covering the models of communications (verbal and nonverbal), technology to communicate, how to prepare and conduct formal briefings, an introduction to the Army branches, diversity and equal opportunity training, ethical decision making, & group cohesion and dysfunction. Some weekend training required. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Notes: Enrollment in MLSC 300 level course is restricted to students who are contracted or are pre-approved by department/Army ROTC as pending contracting. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: MLSC 100 & 200 level completion or military credit exemption.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

MLSC 400: Leadership and Management. 3 credits.
Considered the "transition to lieutenant" phase in which managerial theories are applied to personnel, training, and logistics management situations. Students have command and staff responsibilities for the Mason cadet corps and receive hands-on experience operating as a management team. There are several briefing and writing requirements as well. Includes a laboratory in applied science, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: MLSC 300 and 301 or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
MLSC 402: Leadership and Ethics. 3 credits.
Continuing the "transition to lieutenant" phase of ROTC, examines ethics of military environment to include customs, ethical codes & decision making, constraints, and appeals to moral principles. American judicial system is also examined, with emphasis on the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Command and staff responsibilities are assigned to students for hands-on experience operating as a management team for Mason cadet corps. Includes a laboratory in applied leadership, common military tasks, and physical fitness. Offered by Military Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: MLSC 300 & 302.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
MLSC 499: Senior Advanced Military Studies. 0 credits.
Offered by Military Science. May be repeated within the degree.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

Provost (PROV)

PROV Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

PROV 110: Special Topics. 1-3 credits.
Exploration of leadership in a specific career field(s); changing nature of that industry; understanding of organizational structures in the field(s); and introduction to career and internship opportunities for students who aspire to a career in that field. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
PROV 150: International Experience: Global Understanding. 0 credits.
This course is designed for students studying abroad for a full semester (e.g. 12-15 credits and not a three week course) to fulfill their Mason Core Global Understanding requirement. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to GEOC 150.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Global Understanding
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

200 Level Courses

PROV 210: Comprehensive Topics in Leadership. 1-3 credits.
Comprehensive exploration of leadership in a specific career field(s); changing nature of that industry; understanding of organizational structures in the field(s); and introduction to career and internship opportunities for students who aspire to a career in that field. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 3 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

300 Level Courses

PROV 342: The George Mason Debates in Current Affairs. 3 credits.
In-depth investigation of one or more contemporary public policy issues. Examines the selected topics as discussed by scholars, public interest groups and think tanks, government officials, and the news media. Texts and guest lecturers presenting a wide range of perspectives are an important feature. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Mason Apex
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion or concurrent enrollment in all other required general education courses.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

600 Level Courses

PROV 601: Thriving in Your Graduate Program. 1 credit.
Gaining greater insight into student learning theories, the nature of research and scholarship, higher education trends, and the various career paths available to individuals with graduate degrees is important for students in the early stages of their academic programs. This seminar is designed for early career MFA and doctoral students to facilitate their success as graduate students at Mason. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
PROV 699: Special Topics in Graduate Education. 0-3 credits.
This course explores selected topics in Graduate Education across all disciplines. When offered, each course will have a course description based on special topics selected for a particular semester. Offered by the Office of the Provost, every offered section will provide graduate students an educational experience with the ultimate goal of maximizing their academic success and well-being. Notes: May be repeated if topics substantially differ. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate or Non-Degree.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

700 Level Courses

PROV 701: Preparing for Academic Careers. 1 credit.
This seminar will be devoted to helping doctoral students explore and prepare for future academic careers and to strengthening their instructional effectiveness. The seminar will provide a clearer understanding of the roles and responsibilities of being a faculty member. Participants will learn how to construct a meaningful statement of teaching philosophy and plan for a course through syllabus design. Notes: This course does not apply to required credits for doctoral degrees. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

800 Level Courses

PROV 801: Community-engaged Interdisciplinary Methods I. 3 credits.
This course sequence is designed to provide graduate students with a firm foundation in applying interdisciplinary design thinking to develop creative solutions to real world challenges with the objective of creating actionable knowledge in a community. In close collaboration with community partners, students will receive hands-on training to define problems, understand the challenges associated with data in the real world, collaborate on multidisciplinary teams, communicate with diverse audiences, integrate multiple perspectives including disciplinary knowledge, lived experiences, and community insights, and apply multidisciplinary methods to create actionable knowledge. In the first course, multidisciplinary teams will immerse themselves in community settings to identify and articulate a problem with participation of community stakeholders, and design a proposed solution. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy or Graduate.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Fieldwork
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
PROV 802: Community-engaged Interdisciplinary Methods II. 3 credits.
This course sequence is designed to provide graduate students with a firm foundation in applying interdisciplinary design thinking to develop creative solutions to real world challenges with the objective of creating actionable knowledge in a community. In close collaboration with community partners, students will receive hands-on training to define problems, understand the challenges associated with data in the real world, collaborate on multidisciplinary teams, communicate with diverse audiences, integrate multiple perspectives including disciplinary knowledge, lived experiences, and community insights, and apply multidisciplinary methods to create actionable knowledge. In the second course of the series, multidisciplinary graduate student teams will further develop and refine their project deliverable and generate preliminary results, data and/or prototype solutions. Offered by Provost's Office. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy or Graduate.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Fieldwork
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

University Studies (UNIV)

UNIV Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

UNIV 100: Introduction to Mason. 1 credit.
This course assists first-year students with their transition from high school to college life at Mason. It helps students to be successful through academic skill-building, educational planning, and career preparation. It provides information regarding campus resources and ways to engage in the Mason community. Although all sections have a core curriculum, certain sections also focus on a particular theme, student population, or course of study. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 106, UNIV 108, UNIV 140, UNIV 150, UNIV 160.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Freshman.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 101: Extended Transition. 0-1 credits.
This course serves as a continuation of University 100 into the second freshman semester. It extends the transition support of international students, and other students in special sections of University 100. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to INYO 101, INYO 102, UNIV 151.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 106: Mason Transitions for Diverse Learners I. 0-1 credits.
Assists first-year students with their transition from high school to college life and offers the opportunity to learn resources, skills, and strategies that will guide them to academic success. This course is open only to diverse learners identified by Disability Services. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits. Equivalent to UNIV 100, UNIV 108, UNIV 150, UNIV 160.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
UNIV 108: Mason Transition. 0-1 credits.
Specialized transition to Mason courses with identified student populations. Notes: Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 2 credits. Equivalent to UNIV 100, UNIV 106, UNIV 140, UNIV 150, UNIV 160.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Freshman.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 110: Academic Success. 0-1 credits.
Focuses on academic transition and planning issues for students in their first or second year. Emphasis ls placed on resources and techniques to assist students with improving their academic performance. Students work closely with the instructor to track their academic progress over the course of the semester. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 150: First Year Learning Communities. 0-1 credits.
This course is available for students who are members of a first year LLC. It is the learning component of the program for students who live together on a residence hall floor. The course follows the core University 100 curriculum, but is tailored to the particular theme or academic discipline of the LLC. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 100, UNIV 106, UNIV 108, UNIV 140, UNIV 160.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Freshman.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 151: First Year Learning Communities Extended Transition. 0-1 credits.
This course serves as a continuation of University 150 into the second freshman semester. It extends the transition support of students in the First Learning Communities Program. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 101.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 160: University Scholars Transition Seminar. 0-2 credits.
A first year transition seminar for students in the University Scholars Program. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 100, UNIV 106, UNIV 108, UNIV 140, UNIV 150.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admittance to the University Scholars Program.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 170: Special Topics. 0-1 credits.
Varied UNIV course topics are offered to first and second year undergraduate students. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 3 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 180: First Year Bonner Seminar. 3 credits.
This course will explore concepts of community engagement, social justice, and social change. This course introduces an integrative learning experience to the ideas of community and civic engagement through the lens of critical service. Students should be able to define their role and the role of others within and outside of certain communities. Students will translate the knowledge gained from the course within and outside the classroom to further establish their connection and relationship to Mason and its surrounding community of Fairfax County. It offers a unique opportunity for students to learn about what is happening in their community and how to link projects, courses, and ideas to making impactful changes. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Schedule Type: Fieldwork
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 190: Introduction to Research Opportunities. 0-1 credits.
Provides an opportunity to learn more about participating in research and creative projects at Mason and acquire skills needed to be successful in research. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

200 Level Courses

UNIV 206: Mason Transitions for Diverse Learners II. 0-1 credits.
Explores identity and social development within the university environment. This course is open only to diverse learners identified by Disability Services. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
UNIV 220: Decide and Confirm Majors. 0-1 credits.
This course focuses on helping students clarify or choose a major or career. Students explore and assess their interests, values and skills, as well as research various majors, careers, and the world of work as information for the decision-making process. Notes: May not be taken with UNIV 320, UNIV 420, or UNIV 421 in the same semester. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: Second-semester freshman standing.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Freshman or Sophomore.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 250: Second Year Living Learning Communities. 0-1 credits.
Students in a Second Year Living Learning Community live together on a residence hall floor and attend this course together to fulfill the learning component of the LLC program. Notes: For students who are members of a Second Year Living Learning Community. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

UNIV 300: Transfer Transition. 0-1 credits.
This course assists new transfer students with a successful transition to Mason. This course addresses academic success, time management, and course schedule planning, as well as graduate school/career readiness, degree requirements, and other university policies and procedures. Students explore campus resources and opportunities for engaging in the Mason community. Notes: Only transfer students in their first or second semester at Mason are eligible to take this course. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 302, UNIV 303, UNIV 308.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 302: College of Science Transfer Transition. 0-1 credits.
This course is intended for new transfer students in the College of Science to assist them with a successful transition to Mason. This course addresses academic success, time management, and course schedule planning, as well as graduate school/career readiness, degree requirements, and other university policies and procedures. Students explore campus resources and opportunities for engaging in the Mason community. Notes: Only transfer students in their first or second semester at Mason are eligible to take this course. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 300, UNIV 303, UNIV 308.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 303: Veteran Transition. 0-1 credits.
This course is for students with veteran status. Based on theory and research specific to the needs of veterans, this course builds a foundation for success in college and beyond, including career planning, translating military experience on a resume, practical interviewing techniques, and networking and engaging with other veterans in a military-friendly environment. Notes: Only transfer students in their first or second semester at Mason are eligible to take this course. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 300, UNIV 302, UNIV 308.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 306: Mason Transitions for Diverse Learners III. 0-1 credits.
Helps students solidify major and career decisions, develop job-hunting strategies, and practice workplace skills. This course is open only to diverse learners identified by Disability Services. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits. Equivalent to UNIV 320.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
UNIV 308: Mason Transition. 0-1 credits.
Specialized transition to Mason courses with identified student populations. Notes: Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 2 credits. Equivalent to UNIV 300, UNIV 302, UNIV 303, UNIV 304.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 310: Academic Success. 0-1 credits.
Focuses on academic strengthening and planning issues for students in their third year or later. Emphasis is placed on resources and techniques to assist students with improving their academic performance. Students work closely with the instructor to track their academic progress over the course of the semester. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior, Senior Plus or Senior.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 320: Internship and Career Readiness. 0-1 credits.
This course helps students confirm major/career choices and actively pursue internships, research assistantships, and other career-related experiences. With a focus on career readiness, students prepare a resume and cover letter, practice interviewing techniques, and conduct career research. Notes: This course cannot overlap with UNIV 220, UNIV 420, or UNIV 421 during a semester or semester half. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to UNIV 306.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Students with a class of Freshman may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 330: Peer Leadership: Peer Advisors. 0-1 credits.
This course prepares undergraduate students to serve as University 100 Peer Advisors, a role that helps first-year students transition successfully from high school to college. This course provides Peer Advisors with the necessary information, tools, and resources to co-teach University 100 effectively. Notes: For students who have been selected as a Peer Advisor by the University Studies Program. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 331: Peer Leadership: Patriot Leaders. 0-1 credits.
This course introduces students who will serve as Patriot Leaders to the principles of effective leadership. Students will apply knowledge gained through the course directly to their roles and responsibilities as Patriot Leaders through readings and discussions, experiential activities, and class assignments. Notes: For students who have been selected as a Patriot Leader by the New Student and Family Programs Office. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 332: Peer Leadership: Resident Advisors. 0-1 credits.
For students who have been selected for Resident Advisor education by the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Notes: Enrollment is contingent upon approval by University Studies in consultation with the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 2 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 333: Peer Leadership: Peer Mentors. 0-1 credits.
Prepares students to serve as Peer Mentors in a variety of Mason departments and programs. Students learn and put into practice leadership approaches and strategies. They become familiar with communication tools and campus resources that will enable them to mentor fellow students successfully. Notes: For students who have been selected as a Peer Mentor in a Mason department or program. Only repeatable with department approval. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 350: Third Year Living Learning Communities. 0-1 credits.
Students in a Third Year Living Learning Community live together on a residence hall floor and attend this course together to fulfill the learning component of the LLC program. Notes: For students who are a member of a Third Year Living Learning Community. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 370: Special Topics. 0-1 credits.
Notes: May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 3 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 372: Mental Health First Aid. 0-1 credits.
This course trains and certifies students in Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Behavioral Health. Students will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental illnesses and will gain strategies to engage with someone demonstrating those signs and symptoms. Students explore the stigma associated with mental illness as well as cultural components and help-seeking behaviors. Students explore positive coping strategies and self-care as being relevant to the individual with the mental health concern and the individual providing assistance. This course is not repeatable for credit. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 380: Bonner Seminar Continuation. 0-1 credits.
This course will explore concepts of community engagement, social justice, and social change. This course builds upon previous coursework to integrate students understanding of community engagement and their actions with their service sites. Students will translate the knowledge gained from the course within and outside the classroom to further establish their connection and relationship to Mason and its surrounding community of Fairfax County. Students should be able to begin developing action plans for making positive and sustainable change within their service sites and in the broader community. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Schedule Type: Fieldwork
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 381: Foundations for Building a Just Society. 3 credits.
Aims to produce graduates who navigate the diverse world around them in a way that promotes justice, equity, and inclusion. This class provides foundational building blocks for that learning trajectory. In addition to engaging with course material (reading, podcasts, TED talks), students will grow through experiential learning and critical dialogue. Students will develop awareness, knowledge, analytical tools, and interpersonal skills related to diversity that will provide a foundation for exploration and constructive contributions to the George Mason community and beyond. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core (All), Global Understanding, Social/Behavioral Sciences
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 391: Students as Scholars Scholarly Inquiry. 0-9 credits.
Students contribute to scholarly, research, or creative projects by engaging in the recursive process of scholarly inquiry as preparation for participation in an individualized original project. Students will hold regular meetings with their project mentor, and make satisfactory contributions to the project. Notes: Enrollment only with permission from OSCAR. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 27 credits.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

UNIV 406: Mason Transitions for Diverse Learners IV. 0-1 credits.
Prepares students for the workplace or graduate school. Students will practice interviewing and interpersonal skills, as well as develop and practice strategies for success in post-graduation endeavors. This course is open only to diverse learners identified by Disability Services. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
UNIV 420: College to Career. 0-1 credits.
This course supports second semester juniors, senior, and senior plus students with transitioning into the professional workplace. Students develop a tailored resume and cover letter, refine their interviewing skills, and discuss important workforce issues, such as compensation packages and workplace dynamics. Notes: This course cannot overlap with UNIV 220, UNIV 320, or UNIV 421 during a semester or semester half.   Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to ENGH 303, FRLN 309, GLOA 305, HIST 385, PHIL 393.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior Plus, Junior, Senior Plus or Senior.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 421: College to Graduate School. 0-1 credits.
This course supports second semester juniors and seniors. The academic emphasis is on transition readiness for graduate or professional school. Students learn about application and testing options and strategies, interviewing skills, budgeting, and career development. Notes: This course cannot overlap with UNIV 220, UNIV 320, or UNIV 420 during a semester or semester half.   Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior, Senior Plus or Senior.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 422: Professional Skills Development. 0-1 credits.
Is for seniors preparing for success in the workplace. Course topics include: building skills employers demand, advocating for yourself in challenging situations, preparing for performance reviews, understanding employment benefits such as compensation, health, and financial plans, and more. This course helps prepare students for meeting 21st century workplace challenges in a practical, experiential, and collaborative workplace-simulated environment. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior Plus or Senior.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 480: Bonner Seminar Capstone. 0-1 credits.
This course is focused on two primary objectives; finalizing capstone projects and moving into higher level leadership roles within the Bonner program. Over the duration of this course, the focus will be on individual and group leadership development, developing facilitation skills, planning for leading Bonner spring seminars, and laying the foundation for beginning capstone experiences during the fourth year. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 2 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 490: Critical Decisions in Postgraduate Transitions. 0-1 credits.
This course guides and supports students through the postgraduate fellowship application process and postgraduate decisions. Students create a resume, complete a fellowship application, prepare for a scholarship interview, and refine their educational and career goals. Notes: Enrollment through the Office of Fellowships. Only repeatable with approval from the Office of Fellowships. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 1 credits.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 491: RS: Students as Scholars Individualized Scholarly Experience. 0-9 credits.
Students actively participate in the process of scholarship and make a significant contribution to the creation of scholarly, research, or creative project. Students meet regularly with their project mentor, make satisfactory progress towards the completion of the project, and create a disciplinary product for evaluation. Notes: Enrollment only with permission from OSCAR. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 27 credits.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 495: RS: Undergraduate Research Scholars Program Seminar. 0-1 credits.
Students accepted into Undergraduate Research Scholars Program participate in a weekly seminar, hold regular meetings with their project mentor, and make satisfactory progress on their research or creative project. At the end of the semester, students either complete their project and present the results in a professional context, or apply for continuation through UNIV 496. See oscar.gmu.edu for more information and application. Notes: Enrollment only with acceptance into the URSP through OSCAR. Offered by Provost's Office. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
UNIV 496: RS: Undergraduate Research Scholars Program Continuation. 0 credits.
Students continuing their participation in the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program hold regular meetings with their project mentor and make satisfactory progress on their research or creative project. At the end of the semester, students either complete their project and present the results in a professional context, or apply for continuation. See oscar.gmu.edu for more information and application. Notes: Enrollment only with acceptance into the URSP through OSCAR. Offered by Provost's Office. May be repeated within the degree.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: UNIV 495.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.