College Code: SC

The College of Science at George Mason University is a leader in scientific discovery and the creation of innovative solutions for the rapidly-changing needs of today’s world. The college prides itself in being home to a diverse population of students from across the U.S. and around the world. The College of Science is a magnet for minds interested in scientific disciplines and it offers enhanced undergraduate and graduate research opportunities to its students. With new science and technology discoveries, the college is also one of George Mason’s entrepreneurship leaders, adding to George Mason’s portfolio of patents, licenses, and spin-off companies.

In blending traditional science education with cutting edge programs that prepare students for the most sought-after and exciting careers in the field of science, the College of Science strives for a vibrant future for all, informed by science. The college offers curricula in disciplines as diverse as infectious diseases, drug discovery, geoinformatics, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, climate dynamics, environmental conservation, geology, materials science, physics, astronomy, forensic science, computational and data science, and mathematics. The college encourages meaningful research at all levels of learning, pairing high achieving undergraduate students with faculty mentors to undertake original projects. Many of the college's undergraduates go on to pursue advanced degrees in the sciences or medical professions, while others pursue careers in public service, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. The College of Science also offers innovative minors and certificates, as well as global, transfer-focused, and online or hybrid programs that provide professionals with the opportunity to reskill or change careers. 

The College of Science serves the university through teaching Mason Core courses in a variety of scientific disciplines and is a leader in the development of creative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) initiatives to challenge and engage students at all levels. The college also serves the community and region as a resource for science education for K–12 students, teacher training, and community outreach programs. The college's faculty strive to impart creativity, rigorous, analytical thinking, and clear communication as they help students explore new ideas and develop novel approaches to problem-solving. Students are thus prepared for their role as informed citizens in a complex global society and are able to adapt to an ever-changing world.

The College of Science continues to push the boundaries of scientific discovery and education. The college's faculty have led collaborations and advised governments and organizations across diverse domains including space, data, energy, water, climate, agriculture, and quantum science among many applications. The College of Science provides programming to expand the intellectual curiosity of the next generation of scientists- whether inside or outside of the classroom. The College of Science community cultivates a promising future for its students and for new scientific frontiers.

College of Science Catalog Editors

The college is thankful for the Registrar's Catalog and Curriculum team and for its dedicated catalog editors:

Amaya, Barreto, Bazaz Gettys, Berea, Bishop, Blaisten-Barojas, Bulancea, Burtch, Chen, Craft, Croitoru, DeVito, Dumas, Durac, Emelianenko, Erb, Fede, Fowler, Flores, Hahn, Hayes, Grant, Jafri, Jones, Kasik, Khan, Kim, Klinger, Knight, Lewis, Lopez, Mason, McKenna, Olmo, O'Toole, Paige, Perry, Peters, Pfoser, Rancourt, Rubin, Rule, Sausville, Scott, So, St. Germain, Stan, Stone, Sweeney, Uhen, Van Aken, Vaisman, Verardo, Yang

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College Policies

Students in the College of Science (Mason Science) are governed by the policies and procedures of the university. Areas where the college provides additional guidance will be found in the Undergraduate Education and Graduate Education sections below.

Accommodations for Disabled Students

Students with documented disabilities should contact the Office of Disability Services (703-993-2474) to learn more about accommodations that may be available to them.

Undergraduate Education

The college offers numerous certificates, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science degrees. These undergraduate degrees consist of coursework in the Mason Core, in a major area of study, and in elective courses. To earn a bachelor's degree, students must at a minimum:

  • Complete 120 credits, of which at least 45 must be in upper-level courses (numbered 300 and above).
  • Complete at least one course designated as "writing intensive" (at the 300 or 400-level).
  • All entering students who have not yet satisfied the Mason Core requirement in 'Quantitative Reasoning' are required to take the Math Placement Test prior to enrollment.
  • Students should also consult AP.5 Undergraduate Policies for information concerning university-wide requirements for undergraduate degrees.

All students are responsible for meeting with their academic advisor and reviewing their transcripts and degree audits regularly to ensure that they are correct and meet all requirements. Transfer students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor prior to registering for classes in order to review their transcripts and course equivalencies. In some cases, students may need to earn more than 120 credits to complete all of the degree requirements.

More information regarding the undergraduate programs administered by the college is available on the college's website.

College-level Degree Requirements

The baccalaureate degree is designed to provide a broad knowledge of the world, develop in students the ability to think conceptually and critically, acquaint them with many different methods of inquiry, and provide skills to continue intellectual growth throughout life.

Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree provides students with a breadth of knowledge as well as the necessary skills to make in-depth study of a major truly meaningful. In addition to the Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees and the Mason Core, students pursuing a BA degree must also complete the College Requirements for the BA Degree, and the degree program's requirements, both listed in the specific degree program's catalog page.

Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree provides students with a more intensive approach to the technical core knowledge and concepts in their major field of study. Therefore, this curriculum has a reduced number of courses in humanities and social sciences in comparison with the BA degree in order to allow students to achieve greater depth in their majors. Students pursuing a BS degree must complete the Requirements for Bachelor's Degrees, including the Mason Core, and the requirements for their major. Requirements for each BS major are listed on the specific degree program's catalog page.

Minors

Students may elect to take a minor in addition to their major field of study. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors. Students interested in earning a minor should complete the Minor Declaration form.

Teacher Licensure

Degree programs that help to prepare students for teaching careers are available in the following programs:

For more information, visit the Secondary Education program's webpage.

Undergraduate Policies

Students should become familiar with the university's general academic policies in addition to those specific to each department. Please see AP.5 Undergraduate Policies.

Students with questions regarding exceptions to undergraduate academic policies and college-level requirements should contact the college's Office of Academic and Student Affairs (email: ugradCOS@gmu.edu). Additional academic information and forms are available online from the college's webpage.

Registration

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 official add period. Calendars are available on the Office of the University Registrar's website.

Academic Load

Students should review the university policies regarding academic load in AP.1.2 Academic Load.

In order to be considered for an overload, students must fulfill all of the following criteria:

  • Be in good academic standing,
  • Have completed the prior semester with a GPA of 2.75 or higher,
  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher,
  • No grades of 'C-' or lower in the previous semester,
  • Have demonstrated in prior semesters at George Mason the ability to handle an increased and demanding course load while maintaining high performance, and
  • Have no remaining incompletes ('IN') from a previous semester

Freshmen and transfer students in their first semesters are not given permission for overloads as they have yet to establish an academic record at George Mason.

If approved for an overload, the student is responsible for adding the additional class(es) and paying for the related tuition and fees by the official university deadlines. Calendars are available on the Office of the University Registrar's website.

Excluded Courses

The college's students are limited to 3 credits of coursework in Recreation (RECR) activity courses which may be taken to satisfy degree requirements and applied as general elective credits toward a degree in the college.

Military Science courses MLSC 400 Leadership and Management and MLSC 402 Leadership and Ethics can be used for credit toward a degree in the college. Additionally, up to 3 credits of 100-level MLSC coursework may be applied toward the college’s degrees.

Students may apply credits from CLEP exams to the college's degrees only if those credits were awarded and reported prior to matriculation. Once matriculated at George Mason, students may not take CLEP exams and apply credits from those exams toward the college's degrees. 

University Consortium Registration

Students should review the university policies in AP.1.4 Special Registration Procedures, including the University Consortium listing.

In addition, students who have failed a course at George Mason are not permitted to take the equivalent course through the consortium under any circumstances. All consortium registration requests must be submitted to the Office of Academic and Student Affairs at least three weeks prior to the first day of classes for the relevant semester at George Mason.

Permission to Study Elsewhere

Once enrolled in degree status at George Mason, students with less than 60 hours of earned transfer credits (excluding any credits earned through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area or through the Global Education Office) are eligible to take one course (which may include a lecture and lab/corequisite pairing) of COS-equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited US institution of higher education. A lecture course with an associated lab/corequisite must be requested and taken within the same term.

Students with 60 or more transfer credit hours are prohibited from taking additional coursework in the college's disciplines at another institution. 

A request to study elsewhere should only be requested for the purpose of timely progression and must count toward a major/degree requirement. Students are only permitted to take courses elsewhere under justifiable circumstances. Scheduling or modality convenience, tuition or materials costs are not permissible circumstances to study elsewhere. Courses deemed as elective credit will not be considered.

Students requesting to study elsewhere must have both a cumulative and previous semester/term grade point average of 2.00 or above. All approvals are provisional until all final grades from the previous semester/term have been submitted.

The course requested by the student cannot be offered through George Mason in a virtual/asynchronous fashion for the semester/term requested.

In addition, students requesting to study elsewhere for a course which contains a laboratory portion must provide proof that the laboratory is being taught in an in-person modality. The request will not be reviewed until this verification is provided. Virtual/online labs will not be considered.

See AP.1.4.2 Permission to Study Elsewhere for more information.

Study Abroad

In order to be considered for study through the Global Education Office, students must plan well in advance and receive prior, written permission from the college's Office of Academic and Student Affairs. Students must also meet all of the following criteria:

  • Meet all eligibility criteria for their program as specified by the Global Education Office, including minimum GPA requirements,
  • Completed the immediately preceding semester at George Mason with a GPA of 2.00 or higher, and
  • Completed the necessary forms and obtained all required signatures and course equivalencies.

The Global Education Office may have higher academic standards and students must meet all eligibility requirements.

Students in danger of probation, suspension, or dismissal should plan very carefully before requesting to study abroad. Students who are not in good academic standing will not be permitted to study abroad.

Leave of Absence

Please consult AP.1.8 Undergraduate Leave of Absence regarding the leave of absence policy.

Withdrawals

Students are encouraged to review the AP.1.5 Withdrawal section of this catalog.

Students are responsible for all courses in which they remain officially enrolled once the Unrestricted Withdrawal Period has ended. Please review the applicable academic calendar for pertinent dates.

Once the Unrestricted Withdrawal Period has ended, and/or after a student has used all three selective withdrawals, a dean-approved withdrawal (Withdrawal) is only permitted for non-academic reasons and cannot be approved for academic reasons. 

A Withdrawal requires the approval of the Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs and is typically allowed only for full semesters at a time (all enrolled courses). Instructors do not have the authority to withdraw students from classes. 

When submitting a Withdrawal request, students must provide verifiable, third-party documentation for the reason for the withdrawal. Withdrawal requests should be submitted as early in the semester as possible, and never after the last day of classes.

Courses for which a Withdrawal is approved receive a grade of 'W'. Credits graded 'W' do not affect a student's GPA, but do count as attempted hours. The total attempted hours and cumulative GPA determine a student's academic standing. If the cumulative GPA is below 2.00, Withdrawals may affect whether a student will be on warning, probation, suspension, or dismissal. Students should be familiar with AP.5.2 Academic Standing.

Academic Clemency

Students should review the university policies regarding academic clemency in AP.5.2.9 Academic Clemency.

In extraordinary cases, students who (a) have been absent from Mason for a minimum of three consecutive calendar years, and (b) are currently in their first semester back at the university may request that the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs consider allowing clemency from up to 16 hours of coursework from previous semesters.

To be considered for this clemency, students must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be absent from George Mason for a minimum of three consecutive calendar years,
  • Provide a detailed explanation for why they were unsuccessful in those courses and how they have made changes to ensure their academic progress upon their return,
  • Submit their request within 12 months of the first day of the re-enrollment term,
  • In order to make this request, students should
    1. Enroll in at least 6 hours during their first 12 months back at George Mason, and
    2. Earn a minimum GPA of 2.50 each semester back prior to making the clemency request, with no grade below 2.00.

If these minimum academic requirements are not met during the first semester of return, clemency will not be allowed under any circumstances.

Appeals Process

Students may appeal departmental decisions concerning academic actions to Office of Academic and Student Affairs. They may further appeal the decisions of Office of Academic and Student Affairs to the Mason Science Dean's Council, a committee composed of college deans and faculty members. These levels of appeal are subject to the limits below concerning the final level of appeal for each type of academic action. Students who feel that the college appeal process was conducted unfairly may appeal to the Office of the Provost as specified in Student Rights and Responsibilities.

Grade appeals should first be made to the department or program, following the process specified in AP.3.9 Grade Appeals. If they are resolved within the department or program, that is the final level of appeal. The departmental decision may be appealed to the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs only on the basis of procedural irregularity. Such appeals should be made through the Office of Academic and Student Affairs. If the grade appeal is not resolved within the department or program, the chair makes a recommendation to the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs, who makes the final determination. The decision of the associate dean is not subject to review or further appeal.

Departments set the requirements for the majors and minors that they administer. Substitutions and waivers of requirements require the approval of Office of Academic and Student Affairs. When a department denies a substitution or waiver of a requirement, this decision may be appealed to the Office of Academic and Student Affairs on the basis of procedural irregularity only, and is the final level of approval.

The Mason Science Dean's Council is the final level of appeal for course overloads, consortium registration, study elsewhere, and Withdrawals after the drop deadline within the semester.

The college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs is the final level of appeal for college-level requirements, retroactive adds, Withdrawals, graduation, and return from suspension and dismissal.

There is no waiver or appeal of satisfactory performance standards (minimum grades or grade point average, GPA) that have been set by the department or program faculty for the courses in their major or minor.

Students should file all appeals in a timely manner, usually within the semester in which the original decision is rendered, but no later than the last day of classes in the following semester.

Grievances

Grievances should be directed, in writing, to the department chair or program director overseeing the major or course.

Transfer Students

Admitted and enrolled transfer students who have completed an AA, AS, or AA&S degree from the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) and have been offered admission to Mason by the Office of Admissions may be eligible for a waiver of all of Mason's lower level Mason Core requirements in accordance with the Guaranteed Admission Agreement. Students eligible for this waiver are still required by the university to complete ENGH 302 Advanced Composition (Mason Core) and an Apex course. Transfer students who have been offered admission under the terms of the Guaranteed Admission Agreement and are pursuing a degree in the college are still responsible for any outstanding college requirements not covered by transfer coursework, including intermediate proficiency in a foreign language (required of Mason Science BA students).

Graduate Education

Mason Science offers numerous graduate certificates, master's programs, and doctoral programs; the requirements for each can be found in the program's description in this catalog. More information regarding the college's graduate programs is available on the college's website.

Graduate Admission

Admissions decisions are made by the faculty committee in the respective graduate program. Denial of admission is not subject to appeal. Further information can be found in Graduate Admission Policies.

Provisional and Conditional Admission

Provisionally admitted students are not eligible to participate in any consortium coursework, studying at another institution, or study abroad programs until the conditions of the provisional contract have been met. Transfer of credit requests for coursework taken in non-degree status at Mason or another institution will not be considered until the provisional contact has been fulfilled. Further information on provisional admission can be found in Graduate Admissions Policies.

Details on conditional admission, the need for additional requirements to be met before enrollment, can be found in Graduate Admission Policies.

Non-degree Enrollment

The college gladly admits qualified students for non-degree studies. Some of the factors that are considered by the college while making non-degree admissions decisions include: previous academic performance, professional experience, and academic fit. To apply, applicants are to complete the non-degree George Mason University Graduate Application and provide official transcripts from all institutions attended. Further information can be found in Non-degree Enrollment and on the Office of Admissions' website.

Upon admission to graduate non-degree studies, students are considered graduate students and are charged tuition accordingly (regardless of the course's level). The college permits up to 12 credits of relevant graduate coursework earned in non-degree status to be considered for transfer into many of its graduate programs.

Transferring Previous Graduate Credit into Programs and Certificates

Previously earned and relevant graduate credits may be eligible for transfer into Mason Science programs and certificates; details can be found in the AP 6.5 Credit by Exam or Transfer section of this catalog.

Credit from Other Institutions (Permission to Study Elsewhere)

Students enrolled in a degree program may take graduate courses at another regionally accredited institution and apply these credits to a master's or doctoral degree with prior approval. Details and related restrictions can be found in AP.6.5.3 Permission to Study Elsewhere. Students enrolling in courses at other institutions with different drop/add timetables must still abide by Mason's drop/add deadlines in terms of acquiring necessary approvals.

Academic Load

Graduate students can enroll in up to 12 credits each semester; non-degree graduate students can enroll in up to 10 credits each semester. Students should review the university's policies in AP.1.2 Academic Load.

University Consortium

Students should review university policies regarding the University Consortium under AP.1.4.9 University Consortium.

In addition, in order to register for a consortium course, students must have an overall GPA of at least 3.00 and be in good academic standing. Students with grades of 'IN' on their record or who earned grades of 'C' or 'F' in the most recent semester are not eligible to register for a consortium course. Students who have received a grade less than 3.00 in a consortium course are not permitted to enroll in additional consortium courses. Newly admitted graduate students are not permitted to enroll in consortium courses during their first semester of graduate study. Students who wish to enroll in consortium courses during their second semester of study must wait until the grades for the previous semester have been posted.

Dissertation Committee

The college follows university policies regarding dissertation committees. Please see AP.6.10.5 Dissertation Committee. Please note that some programs within the college may have a more stringent policy.

Dissertation (998/999) Registration

Most programs within the college follow university policies regarding dissertation registration; please see AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999). Some departments may have additional requirements.

Time Limit for Doctoral Students

The college follows university policies regarding doctoral time limits. Please see AP.6.10.1 Time Limit. If your catalog term was before this year's current catalog, please visit the archived catalogs page and find your catalog term's policy on time limits.

Requests for an extension of the time limit must be submitted online and must include all required documentation listed on the Office of the University Registrar's website.

Graduate Appeals of Termination

All graduate students should be familiar with the university's polices on termination, please see AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. Students who meet the criteria for academic termination may submit a Graduate Termination Exception Request to the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs. Exception requests must include (a) specific details describing the unique and extenuating circumstances under which the student is unable to maintain minimum standards of academic performance and (b) a letter of support from Advisor or Dissertation/Thesis Chair/Graduate Program Director addressing why an exception should be granted, how the program will be supportive, any recommendations/requirements associated with approval, any other relevant information for consideration.

Exceptions for termination are reviewed by the college's Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Student Affairs with input from the Graduate Program Director or Department Chair within the student's department. If the student’s Academic Exception Request is denied, the student may appeal that decision to the Associate Provost of Graduate Education.

Note:

See individual academic units within the college for a full accounting of the College of Science's curricular offerings.

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Advanced Biomedical Sciences (BMED)

BMED Course Schedule

500 Level Courses

BMED 550: Special Topics in Biomedicine. 2 credits.
This course presents various topics in biomedicine in a lecture/seminar format. Students build on the ABS Certificate curriculum to enhance their understanding of biomedical issues and better prepare for careers in the health professions.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: Successful completion of first semester of the ABS Certificate curriculum (Biochemistry, Biostatistics, Histology).
Recommended Corequisite: Spring ABS Certificate courses (Human Anatomy, Human Physiology).
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the SC-CERG-ABS program.

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

600 Level Courses

BMED 601: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. 4 credits.
Principles of biochemistry and cell signaling and current concepts regarding physiological processes at the cellular and molecular levels.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 602: Biomedical Statistics. 3 credits.
Basic principles of biostatistics and epidemiology in theoretical and practical context including: exploring and displaying data appropriately, exploring relationships between two variables, issues of gathering sample data, and understanding randomness and probability.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 603: Cell Biology and Microscopic Anatomy. 3 credits.
Examines basic histological techniques, ultrastructure of the cell, basic tissue types and histology of specific organ systems. Structure-functional and clinical correlations are described.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 604: Fundamentals of Human Physiology. 5 credits.
Essential concepts of physiology and mechanisms of body function are presented at various levels of organization, ranging from cellular and molecular to tissue and organ system levels. Emphasis is placed on understanding the integrated regulation of various body processes among the major systems.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 605: Introduction to Human Anatomy. 3 credits.
Principles of anatomy as well as the pertinent anatomy associated with the thorax, abdomen, and pelvic cavities.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 610: Principles of Systems Biology. 2 credits.
Students will build on their knowledge of cellular and molecular biology, genetics, and physiology to understand how these components combine to give rise to complex systems function found in biology.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Sciences master’s degree.
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.
BMED 611: Molecular Genetics. 2 credits.
Students will build on their knowledge of molecular biology and genetics to understand how these components' functions are altered during the inception and course of human disease.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Sciences master’s degree.
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.
BMED 612: Principles of Gross Anatomy. 1 credit.
Principles of anatomy as well as the pertinent anatomy associated with the thorax, abdomen, and pelvic cavities.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Science’s master’s program
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.
BMED 613: Pathophysiology. 3 credits.
Students build on knowledge of physiologic principles and apply the information to pathologic conditions. A higher understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of pathology will be developed as the mechanisms of disease are studied.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Sciences master’s program
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.
BMED 614: Introduction to Neuroscience. 3 credits.
Achieve specific knowledge of the developmental and evolutionary aspects of the nervous system, to introduce systems neurobiology through study of the visual system and motor system pathways.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Science’s master’s program
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.
BMED 651: Physician and Society. 1 credit.
Seminar series explores the cultural, social, economic and ethical factors that affect the practice of medicine in the 21st century.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 2 credits.
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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences.

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.
BMED 652: Biomedical Career Pathways. 1 credit.
Series of workshops, presentations and field trips. Students will learn study and interview skills to become better prepared to complete AMCAS and secondary applications to medical schools.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. 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 students with a major in Advanced Biomedical Sciences or Biomedical Sciences.

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 Graduate Regular scale.
BMED 653: Forum and Research. 3 credits.
Bi-weekly seminar-style presentations and reading assignments, followed by short student reports, followed by a small group discussions on topics of current interest. Students will prepare a detailed research paper on a topic related to one of the forum topics.Offered by Advanced Biomedical Sciences. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to Biomedical Sciences master’s degree.
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.

Biomedical Research (BIMR)

BIMR Course Schedule

200 Level Courses

BIMR 260: Diversity of Biomedical Scientific Traditions. 3 credits.
This undergraduate course is designed for the students of all backgrounds who are interested in learning about diversity of concepts concerning the systematic study of the nature and the human body across cultures and civilizations. All civilizations have collected this type of knowledge and analyzed it, which often led to breakthroughs in technology. The course will describe various biomedical concepts in traditional cultures and their interplay with modern biomedicine. The goal of the course is to trace the development of the systems’ approach to modern science and learn about foundational scientific concepts underlining the achievements of different cultures across the globe. Special emphasis will be placed on a progress of life sciences in a context of cultural diversity. Offered by School of Systems Biology. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Students are expected to be familiar (on a conceptual level) with the basic concepts of natural sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

BIMR 480: Gateway to a Medical Career. 3 credits.
The mission of this class is to prepare students for many types of medical careers. Students will revisit notions acquired in previous chemistry and biology classes and contextualize them in relation to human diseases. Systemic approach to physiology and pathology of human diseases will be undertaken, with emphasis on cancer biology. Offered by School of Systems Biology. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: An undergraduate BIOL or CHEM course, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

500 Level Courses

BIMR 510: Creativity and Innovation in Biomedical Research. 3 credits.
Creativity and innovative thinking is the most important requirement for success in any field. Creative thinking drives all progress in the arts, the sciences, and the commercial sector. Under this philosophy, students will be immersed in a culture of creativity surrounded by mentors and advisors who explain and demonstrate the creative process. Students will be shown that every team member in a modern career – ranging from summer scientists to tenured professors – can be the originator (and inventor) of a seminal idea that opens a whole new field. Offered by School of Systems Biology. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Undergraduate upper-level coursework in Biology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry, or the equivalents.
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.

College of Science (COS)

COS Course Schedule

100 Level Courses

COS 100: Introduction to Science as a Profession. 1-2 credits.
COS 100 introduces students to contemporary fields in science, computation, mathematics, and technology, while building essential interdisciplinary skills applicable to these academic and career pathways. Through interactive learning, students gain insights into diverse scientific disciplines and explore associated academic and professional expectations. Key topics include an overview of 21st-century career skills and professional development opportunities (such as internships and undergraduate research), creative problem-solving approaches, project design fundamentals, and introductory ethics. Students are introduced to principles of collegiate-level scholarly research, data visualization, systems and stakeholder mapping, and science communication, while engaging with academic unit representatives to explore relevant academic programs and professions. The course culminates in a capstone project, which involved addressing a global challenge. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 108: College of Science Transitions. 1 credit.
This first-year seminar for College of Science majors provides guidance and support for students transitioning from high school to college and connects students to supportive Mason resources. The class will make connections between academic, personal, and career interests, empower students, and reveal the hidden curriculum essential for success in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Through a variety of activities and assignments, students will develop peer and faculty relationships and extend the learning begun during STEM Bridge Camp. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 120: Introduction to Research. 0-3 credits.
Introduction to research, involving work on a research project. May involve lab study, computer modeling and analysis, mathematics, or other original research as appropriate. Research formulated and completed under instructor's guidance. Culminates in a written or oral final report. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 150: Women Leaders in STEM. 1 credit.
This is a discussion-oriented course to develop leadership skills for students pursuing a careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The course will also emphasize cohort building, networking, and mentorship. Current issues surrounding the treatment of women leaders in STEM disciplines will also be discussed. Classes will be either seminar-style or workshops and will focus on case studies, relevant scholarship, and skill practice. This course is open to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics majors of all gender identities. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) majors.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

300 Level Courses

COS 300: Professional Preparation for STEM Disciplines. 3 credits.
Prepares any undergraduate major that is interested in enhancing their competences in science writing, technical communication and social media skills. Students will be prepared to become more competitive in the next generation workforce. Covers these topics: drafting and revising papers, dissecting scientific journal articles, communicating science to non-scientists, creating a podcast, writing grant proposals, and preparing CVs, resume and "elevator pitches." By the end of the course, the student will not only be familiar but more confident in effectively disseminating information in their own field of interest. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Focused Course, Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: ENGH 302 or its equivalent and COMM 100 or COMM 101 or their equivalents. (Concurrent enrollment permitted.)
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 301: Great Ideas in Science. 3 credits.
Nontechnical introduction to ideas that have shaped the growth of science, from the building of Stonehenge to modern theories of the Big Bang. The idea behind each major advance is treated in its historical context, with special attention to its importance in mankind's understanding of the nature of the universe. Intended for nonscience majors; uses little mathematics. COS 301 is the new course number for PROV 301: Great Ideas in Science. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Natural Science Overview
Recommended Prerequisite: Classification as a sophomore or higher.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 302: College of Science Transfer Transition. 1 credit.
This seminar provides guidance and support for College of Science students who transferred from other post-secondary institutions, connecting students to supportive Mason resources. COS 302 explores the implicit, essential interdisciplinary professional skills for success in STEM while orienting students to essential resources and experiences to support success in today’s STEM disciplines and tomorrow's career pathways. Students will gain understanding of STEM curricular and student engagement opportunities, explore hands-on learning opportunities (including undergraduate research, internships, and microcredentials), and more. COS 302 provides a transfer student-focused introduction to 21st century STEM skills and occupations, including global problem-solving, project management, and the fundamental principles of research, writing and communication across scientific research and practice. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 303: Introduction to AI Applications in Science. 3 credits.
This course provides a broad introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications across disciplines in the natural, mathematical, computational, and data sciences. Students will explore the fundamental concepts of AI, examine ethical considerations surrounding its use, and gain exposure to how AI is integrated and leveraged across various disciplines within the College of Science. Through lectures across scientific disciplines, hands-on experiences, and review of case studies, students will develop an understanding of AI's transformative role in modern scientific practice and inquiry. No programming is required. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 315: Science Policy Internship Preparation. 1 credit.
Science policy internships along with their application and interview processes are likely to be quite different from most of the experiences that students have had in their core science classes. This course is designed to help students identify internship experiences that are of interest, prepare the materials that they will need to apply, and practice the skills that they will need to interview effectively for these positions. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COS 411C or 411XS).
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.
COS 320: Science Policy in Practice. 1 credit.
Science policy internships are central to developing an understanding of how science policy operates. This course is a project-based follow-up to a science policy internship in which students will have the opportunity to synthesize what they have learned. During the course students will develop a policy memo analyzing relevant topics from their internship that will be submitted to their internship office and presented to members of the science policy community. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: GOVT 480
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COS 411C or 411XS).
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.
COS 390: Learning Assistant Seminar. 0-1 credits.
Prepares newly selected College of Science Learning Assistants to facilitate student learning in the course for which they were selected to be an LA. Facilitates active reflection and group discussions regarding learning and teaching. Serves as the pedagogy component in the Learning Assistant Program which also includes weekly preparation and interaction with peer students in a College of Science course. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Must be a Learning Assistant in the STEM Accelerator
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 391: Continuing Learning Assistant Seminar. 0-1 credits.
Continues the interdisciplinary pedagogy content previously taught in COS 390. Supports students as they continue to practice the leadership and teaching skills required to be a Learning Assistant within the STEM Accelerator. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Must be a Learning Assistant in the STEM Accelerator
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

400 Level Courses

COS 400: Problem Solving and Leadership in STEAM. 3 credits.
In this course, participants will experience a hands-on approach to incorporating problem solving principles into the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) disciplines and consider implications for innovations in research, development, and entrepreneurship. This course consists of face to face meetings, follow up webinars, a collaborative project, and the opportunity for internship. Notes: This course may culminate with international travel; locations will vary by semester. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Entrepreneurship
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 401: RS: Discipline-Based Research in STEM. 1-9 credits.
Students will conduct an original Discipline-Based STEM Research project with their faculty mentor. Project proposals are developed jointly by the student and faculty mentor and approved by the course instructor. COS 401 research projects may include lab-based and field-based studies, discipline-based educational research (DBER), computational and simulation studies, quantitative or qualitative data analyses, or systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Concurrent instruction will supplement research activities to guide students through the research process, the development of summative scholarly research products, and the effective dissemination of results. Each student will develop a scholarly research product that represents their time and effort, and will present their research at a poster session at the conclusion of the course. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Schedule Type: Research
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 402: Special Topics in Science. 1-4 credits.
Explore an array of exciting topics in science; the course's topic will vary by section offered. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 8 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COS 411: Introduction to Science Policy. 3 credits.
This course is an introduction to how science is used to inform governmental policy decisions and how policy impacts U.S. science. The course is intended for any STEM student with an interest in understanding or contributing to decision making at the federal and state level or joining the government to draft policies and legislation directly. Government policies affect all parts of society, including the scientific research enterprise. Reciprocally, science can be used to inform policy in myriad ways at different levels of government. Scientists’ lack of familiarity with policy, and policymakers’ lack of familiarity with science contributes to the longstanding gap between the production of scientific research and its perceived utility by decision-makers. This course will bridge this gap and provide new skills for scientists to contribute to this new field. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts. Offered by College of Science. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Mason Apex, Capstone, Synthesis
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

500 Level Courses

COS 500: Professional Preparation for STEM Disciplines. 3 credits.
Prepares graduate students that are interested in enhancing their competences in science writing, technical communication and social media skills. Students will be prepared to become more competitive in the next generation workforce. Covers these topics: drafting and revising papers, dissecting scientific journal articles, communicating science to non-scientists, creating a podcast, writing grant proposals, and preparing CVs, resume and "elevator pitches." By the end of the course, the student will not only be familiar but more confident in effectively disseminating information in their own field of interest. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
COS 510: Introduction to Science Policy. 3 credits.
This course is an introduction to how science is used to inform governmental policy decisions and how policy impacts U.S. science. The course is intended for any STEM student with an interest in understanding or contributing to decision making at the federal and state level or joining the government to draft policies and legislation directly. Government policies affect all parts of society, including the scientific research enterprise. Reciprocally, science can be used to inform policy in myriad ways at different levels of government. Scientists’ lack of familiarity with policy, and policymakers’ lack of familiarity with science contributes to the longstanding gap between the production of scientific research and its perceived utility by decision-makers. This course will bridge this gap and provide new skills for scientists to contribute to this new field. Offered by College of Science. 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.

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

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
COS 515: Science Policy Internship Preparation. 1 credit.
Science policy internships along with their application and interview processes are likely to be quite different from most of the experiences that students have had in their core science classes. This course is designed to help students identify internship experiences that are of interest, prepare the materials that they will need to apply, and practice the skills that they will need to interview effectively for these positions. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisite: COS 510B-.
B- Requires minimum grade of B-.

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: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
COS 520: Science Policy in Practice. 1 credit.
Science policy internships are central to developing an understanding of how science policy operates. This course is a project-based follow-up to a science policy internship in which students will have the opportunity to synthesize what they have learned in the internship and in their scientific research. During the course students will develop a policy paper analyzing relevant topics from their internship and prepared in a format that will be submitted to their internship office and can be submitted to a science policy journal. In addition, students will present their work orally to members of the science policy community. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: POGO 794
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisite: COS 510B-.
B- Requires minimum grade of B-.

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: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

600 Level Courses

COS 600: Multidisciplinary Problem Solving and Leadership. 3 credits.
In this course, participants will experience a hands-on approach to incorporating problem solving principles into the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) disciplines and consider implications for innovations in research, development, and entrepreneurship. This course consists of face to face meetings, follow up webinars, a collaborative project, and the opportunity for internship. Notes: This course may culminate with international travel; locations will vary by semester. Offered by College of Science. 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.

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

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
COS 602: Special Topics in Science. 1-4 credits.
Explore an array of exciting topics in science; the course's topic will vary by section offered. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 8 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.

Quantum Science and Engineering (QSE)

QSE Course Schedule

500 Level Courses

QSE 500: Ideas in Quantum Science and Technology. 3 credits.
This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills necessary for navigating the dynamic landscape of the quantum industry while exposing them to modern quantum technology. By introducing students to the industry’s technology and concepts essential for business interactions, they will be equipped to enter an expanding industry. Over the semester, students will develop skills to communicate across diverse disciplines, with a focus on articulating quantum information technical concepts in a clear and concise manner. The practice of communicating these technical concepts will serve as an introduction to quantum information systems and their application. Offered by College of Science. 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.

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

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
QSE 501: Mathematical Foundations of QSE. 3 credits.
This course provides mathematical groundwork essential for quantum science and engineering, focusing on linear algebra, asymptotic analysis, abstract algebraic methods, and probability theory as applied in quantum computing contexts. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: MATH 203 or equivalent
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.
QSE 502: Programming Foundations of QSE. 3 credits.
This course introduces fundamental programming concepts, including: variables, lists, classes, and loops, and provides hands-on exercises to practice writing clean code. It also covers the basics of data structures and algorithms, focusing on their design, analysis, and implementation in Python. Offered by College of Science. 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.

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

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
QSE 505: Classical and Quantum Information Theory. 3 credits.
This course introduces students to classical and quantum information theory, which is essential to our understanding of quantum communications and quantum information processing. Students will learn the concepts of Shannon and Von Neumann entropy. Students will also learn to understand the fundamental limits of information transfer, the concept of quantum channels, and how noise impacts communication. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: QSE 500 and (QSE 501 or equivalent)
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.
QSE 511: Quantum Algorithms. 3 credits.
This course offers a rigorous introduction to quantum computation theory, focusing on algorithms. We will explore foundational theorems and develop algorithms that exhibit exponential speedups over classical counterparts. The course prepares students for research or further studies in quantum computing. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: QSE 500 and (QSE 501 or equivalent)
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.
QSE 520: Applications of Quantum Technology. 3 credits.
This course surveys the practical applications of quantum computing and quantum technologies, spanning quantum chemistry, condensed matter physics, combinatorial optimization, machine learning, finance, and cryptanalysis. Students will understand real-world implications of quantum algorithms, including their capabilities and limitations, through detailed end-to-end complexity analyses. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: QSE 500
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.
QSE 570: Quantum Computing System Design. 3 credits.
Quantum computing is an emerging and promising technology that can be used to solve complex problems that are beyond the capability of classical computing. This course centers on quantum system-level optimization, guiding students through the end-to-end workflow—from designing quantum algorithms for specific applications, to synthesizing them into quantum circuits, and compiling those circuits for execution on quantum devices. The curriculum spans essential mathematical foundations, quantum logic gates, quantum machine learning, circuit optimization, noise modeling, and error mitigation techniques. Emphasizing hands-on programming and system integration, students will develop practical skills through team-based research projects and presentations. By the end of the course, students will gain a deep understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical system-level challenges in quantum computing, preparing them to contribute effectively to this rapidly evolving field. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: QSE 500 and (QSE 501 or MATH 203) and (QSE 502 or CS 112), or equivalent
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

QSE 611: Advanced Quantum Algorithms. 3 credits.
This course will deepen students’ knowledge of quantum algorithms beyond QSE 511. In this course, students will explore modern quantum algorithms that may prove useful with the emergence of quantum technology. Students will learn the concepts of Hamiltonian Simulation, quantum signal processing, quantum walks, quantum complexity, heuristic quantum algorithms, span programs, and other topics of current interest. In particular, students will be introduced to a number of algorithms with exponential speedups. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: QSE 511
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.
QSE 621: Quantum Error Correction. 3 credits.
Quantum error correction (QEC) is a rapidly advancing and critical field, underpinning the realization of scalable and fault-tolerant quantum computers. It stands as one of the most important frontiers in quantum science and technology today. This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of QEC, a fundamental discipline for protecting quantum information against quantum noise and errors. The course covers a broad spectrum of topics, beginning with quantum noise models, the 9-qubit code, quantum error correction conditions, stabilizer formalism, and the Clifford group. The course then advances to more complex subjects such as qudit codes, performance bounds, and fault-tolerant strategies—including transversal gates, magic state distillation, and the threshold theorem. The course is delivered through lectures complemented by student-led presentations on advanced QEC topics, fostering deeper understanding, critical thinking, and research skills. Offered by College of Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: (QSE 501 or MATH 203) and QSE 570, or equivalent
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.

700 Level Courses

QSE 798: Master’s Research Project. 1-3 credits.
This course is an experiential learning opportunity designed to provide students with experience in quantum science and engineering research. Directed by QSE faculty, students will engage in research through an academic, industry, or government research opportunity. Note: No more than 3 credits may be counted toward satisfying the master's degree, although students may register for up to 5 credits total until the project is completed. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: At least 15 credits of QSE coursework, excluding foundational courses, QSE 501 and QSE 502
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: Thesis
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
QSE 799: Master’s Thesis. 1-3 credits.
This course is an experiential learning course designed to afford students the opportunity to extend the depth of their knowledge of QSE research. The Master’s topic will be chosen in collaboration with a committee of GMU faculty. Offered by College of Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 11 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: 3 credits of QSE 798 with a grade of IP or S
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: Thesis
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

Note:

See individual academic units within the college for a full accounting of the College of Science's curricular offerings.