This undergraduate minor will train more versatile scientists by educating them on the interplay between science and policy, broadening their perspectives, and providing a pathway for those who wish to pursue policy-related careers.

Policies

Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor.

A minimum GPA of 2.00 is required for all coursework applied to the minor.

For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.

Banner Code: SCTP

Minor Requirements

Total credits: 15

Students should refer to the Admissions & Policies tab for specific policies related to this program.

Pre-Internship Coursework

COS 310Introduction to Science Policy (Mason Core)3
COS 315Science Policy Internship Preparation1
EVPP 429Environmental Science Communication3
Choose any 3 credit GOVT course3
Choose any 1 credit seminar offered by the College of Science, the College of Engineering and Computing, or the Schar School of Policy and Government. Suggestions include, but are not limited to:1
Alternative Careers in Biology
Professional Practice and Management in Engineering
Data Ethics in an Information Society
Computer Ethics and Society
Colloquium in Geoinformation Science
Total Credits11

Internship

Students will explore internship sites during their enrollment in COS 310. Once a site is identified, students will work with their minor advisor to arrange the internship. A final paper is expected at the internship's conclusion.
Select one course from the following options:3
Forensic Internship
GGS Internship
Internship

 Post-Internship Coursework

Students will expand upon their internship's final paper during their enrollment in COS 320.
COS 320Science Policy in Practice1