Overview

Mason Core is Mason’s general education program that builds the foundation for the Mason Graduate – an engaged citizen and well-rounded scholar who is prepared to act. Mason Core is a set of required courses that create the foundation of a student’s undergraduate degree. It provides a breadth of liberal education courses, complementing the depth of knowledge and skills students build in their majors and minors. All undergraduates seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete Mason Core requirements.

Mason Core prepares students for work in their majors and minors, for their careers, and for life-long learning. Foundation courses build key knowledge and skills needed for academic success. Exploration courses provide a breadth of learning across the university. Integration courses include upper-division courses that are designed to integrate knowledge and skills learned from Foundation and Exploration courses into the major. Courses are designed around learning outcomes that help develop the qualities we expect of all students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree from George Mason University. 

Foundation Requirements (12 credits)

Foundation requirements help ensure that students master the tools and techniques necessary to succeed in college and throughout their lives and careers. These courses emphasize skills—in writing, speaking, and working with numbers and technology—that can be applied to any major field of study and career goal.

Written Communication (lower-level)

The Mason Core curriculum offers students a unique opportunity to develop writing competencies across their educational experience that prepares them to participate in academic, professional, and civic communities. It does so in part by providing students with a “vertical” writing curriculum: a carefully sequenced series of courses designed to facilitate the long-term growth of writers as they develop expertise in the production and circulation of knowledge across a range of contexts and audiences. Students begin this process at the Foundation level in English 100 or 101 and build higher-level skills at the Integration level in English 302 and in Writing Intensive courses in their majors. 

Learning Outcomes:

As the first course in Mason’s vertical writing curriculum, students learn to see writing as a social, rhetorical act and are taught to effectively analyze and respond to a variety of writing situations in academic and non-academic contexts through analyzing, researching, and producing texts of varying genres that engage a range of audiences.   

Required:

One approved course.

ENGH 100Composition for Multilingual Writers (Mason Core)4
ENGH 101Composition (Mason Core)3

Oral Communication (3 credits)

Oral Communication focuses on developing students’ ability to create and deliver a variety of message types. Students will learn to monitor and ethically practice their own verbal and nonverbal communication to become an effective communicator, demonstrating respect and consideration for a multitude of audiences with whom they will communicate in a range of intercultural, personal, and professional contexts. They will learn to use oral communication as a way of thinking and learning, as well as to share ideas. 

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing an Oral Communication course, students will be able to: 

  1. Demonstrate understanding of and proficiency in constructing and delivering multiple message types.
  2. Understand and practice effective elements of ethical verbal and nonverbal communication.
  3. Develop analytical skills and critical listening skills.
  4. Understand the influence of culture in communication and will know how to cope with cultural differences when presenting information to an audience. 

Required:

COMM 101 should be taken by all students unless their degree program specifies a different requirement. Students will be expected to continue developing oral communication skills in additional Mason Core courses as appropriate.

COMM 100Public Speaking (Mason Core)3
COMM 101Fundamentals of Communication (Mason Core)3
DANC 454Methods of Teaching Dance (Mason Core)3
INTS 101Narratives of Identity (Mason Core)6
INTS 202Public Speaking and Critical Thinking Skills (Mason Core)4

Quantitative Reasoning (3 credits)

Quantitative Reasoning courses develop critical thinking skills using mathematical and statistical concepts (i.e., formulas, graphs, tables, models, and schematics) to analyze and make sense of data, patterns, and relationships. By learning to evaluate problems using quantitative reasoning, students will be better equipped to make well-supported decisions in personal, academic, and workplace situations.   

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing a Quantitative Reasoning course, students will be able to: 

  1. Interpret quantitative information (i.e., formulas, graphs, tables, models, and schematics) and draw inferences from them.
  2. Formulate a given problem quantitatively and use appropriate arithmetical, algebraic, and/or statistical methods to solve the problem.
  3. Evaluate logical arguments using quantitative reasoning.
  4. Communicate and present quantitative results effectively.

Required:

One approved course.

BUS 210Business Analytics I (Mason Core)3
CDS 292Introduction to Social Network Analysis (Mason Core)3
EDRS 220Introduction to Applied Quantitative Analysis (Mason Core)3
HNRT 125Applied Quantitative Reasoning (Mason Core)3
MATH 106Quantitative Reasoning (Mason Core)3
MATH 108Introductory Calculus with Business Applications (Mason Core)3
MATH 110Introductory Probability (Mason Core)3
MATH 111Linear Mathematical Modeling (Mason Core)4
MATH 113Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Mason Core)4
MATH 115Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Honors) (Mason Core)4
MATH 124Calculus with Algebra/Trigonometry, Part B (Mason Core)3
MATH 125Discrete Mathematics I (Mason Core)3
MATH 272Mathematics for the Elementary School Teachers II (Mason Core)3
SOCI 313Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (Mason Core)4
STAT 250Introductory Statistics I (Mason Core)3

Information Technology and Computing (3 credits)

Information technology and computing can significantly augment humans' ability to produce, consume, process, and communicate information.  Thus, students need to understand ways to use such technology to enhance their lives, careers, and society, while being mindful of challenges such as security, source reliability, automation, and ethical implications.  These factors have made it essential for students to understand how to effectively navigate the evolving technological landscape.  IT courses offered in the majors may focus on disciplinary applications and concerns of information technology. 

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing an Information Technology and Computing course, students will be able to: 

  1. Understand the principles of information storage, exchange, security, and privacy and be aware of related ethical issues.
  2. Consume digital information critically, capable of selecting and evaluating appropriate, relevant, and trustworthy sources of information.
  3. Use appropriate information and computing technologies to organize and analyze information and use it to guide decision-making.
  4. Choose and apply appropriate algorithmic methods to solve a problem.

Required:

One approved 3-credit course that meets all IT requirements or an approved sequence of courses that meet all IT requirements.

Courses meeting IT requirements
ANTH 395Work, Technology, and Society: An IT Perspective (Mason Core)3
AVT 110Digital Design Studio (Mason Core)3
AVT 180New Media in the Creative Arts (Mason Core)3
CDS 130Computing for Scientists (Mason Core)3
CS 100Principles of Computing (Mason Core)3
CS 108Intro to Computer Programming, Part A (Mason Core)3
CS 112Introduction to Computer Programming (Mason Core)4
CYSE 130Introduction to Computing for Digital Systems Engineering (Mason Core)3
ELED 257Integrating Technology in PreK-6 (Mason Core)3
GOVT 300Research Methods and Analysis (Mason Core)4
HIST 390The Digital Past (Mason Core)3
INTS 203Inquiry for Action: Facilitating Change (Mason Core)6
INTS 249Digital Literacy (Mason Core)4
IT 104Introduction to Computing (Mason Core)3
MIS 303Introduction to Business Information Systems (Mason Core)3
MUSI 259Music in Computer Technology (Mason Core)3
PHYS 251Introduction to Computer Methods in Physics (Mason Core)3
SOCI 410Social Surveys and Attitude and Opinion Measurements (Mason Core)3
SYST 130Introduction to Computing for Digital Systems Engineering (Mason Core)3
The following must be taken in sequence:
PSYC 300Statistics in Psychology4
PSYC 301Research Methods in Psychology4
PSYC 372Biopsychology3

Exploration Requirements (22 credits)

Exploration requirements help ensure that students become acquainted with the broad range of intellectual domains that contribute to a liberal education. By experiencing subject matter and ways of knowing in a variety of fields, students will be better able to synthesize new knowledge, respond to fresh challenges, and meet the demands of a complex world. 

 

Note: Courses within the Mason Core can count for more than one category, if approved by the Mason Core committee. Students will be allowed to double count two courses (up to six credit hours) to fulfill their Mason Core requirements. Courses that qualify for double counting will be listed in their individually approved sections.

Arts (3 credits)

Mason courses in the film making, visual, and performing arts stress generative, inquiry based learning through direct aesthetic and creative experience in the studio environment. Art history courses address the intrinsic relationship of personal and cultural creativity, and the manifestation of aesthetics, visual culture, and visual narrative within historical contexts.

Learning Outcomes:

Courses in the Arts category must meet the first learning outcome and a minimum of two of the remaining learning outcomes. Upon completing an Arts course, students will be able to: 

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship among artistic process, a work's underlying concept, and, where appropriate, contexts associated with the work.
  2. Identify and analyze the formal elements of a particular art form using vocabulary and critique appropriate to that form.
  3. Analyze cultural productions using standards appropriate to the form, as well as the works cultural significance and context.
  4. Analyze and interpret the content of material or performance culture through its social, historical, and personal contexts.
  5. Engage in generative artistic processes, including conception, creation, and ongoing critical analysis.  

Required:

One approved course.

ARTH 101Introduction to the Visual Arts (Mason Core)3
ARTH 102Symbols and Stories in Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 103Introduction to Architecture (Mason Core)3
ARTH 104Design in the 20th Century (Mason Core)3
ARTH 200History of Western Art I (Mason Core)3
ARTH 201History of Western Art II (Mason Core)3
ARTH 203Survey of Asian Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 204Survey of Latin American Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 206Survey of African Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 303National Traditions (Mason Core)1-3
ARTH 311Design of Cities (Mason Core)3
ARTH 315Modern Architecture (Mason Core)3
ARTH 321Greek Art and Archaeology (Mason Core)3
ARTH 322Roman Art and Archaeology (Mason Core)3
ARTH 324From Alexander the Great to Cleopatra: The Hellenistic World (Mason Core)3
ARTH 333Early Christian and Byzantine Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 334Western Medieval Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 335Arts of Medieval England (Mason Core)3
ARTH 340Early Renaissance Art in Italy, 1300-1500 (Mason Core)3
ARTH 341Northern Renaissance Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 342High Renaissance Art in Italy, 1480-1570 (Mason Core)3
ARTH 343The Art of Venice (Mason Core)3
ARTH 344Baroque Art in Italy, France, and Spain, 1600-1750 (Mason Core)3
ARTH 345Northern Baroque Art, 1600-1750 (Mason Core)3
ARTH 350History of Photography (Mason Core)3
ARTH 360Nineteenth-Century European Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 362Twentieth-Century European Art (Mason Core)3
ARTH 370Arts of the United States (Mason Core)3
ARTH 371American Architecture and Material Culture (Mason Core)3
ARTH 372Studies in 18th- and 19th-Century Art of the United States (Mason Core)3
ARTH 373Studies in 20th-Century Art of the United States (Mason Core)3
ARTH 375Indigenous Arts of the US and Canada (Mason Core)3
ARTH 376Twentieth-Century Latin American Art (Mason Core)3
AVT 103Introduction to the Artist's Studio (Mason Core)3
AVT 104Two-Dimensional Design and Color (Mason Core)3
AVT 105Three-Dimensional Design and Beyond (Mason Core)3
AVT 215Typography (Mason Core)3
AVT 222Drawing I (Mason Core)3
AVT 232Painting I (Mason Core)3
AVT 243Printmaking I (Mason Core)3
AVT 252Darkroom Photography I (Mason Core)3
AVT 253Digital Photography I (Mason Core)3
AVT 262Sculpture I (Mason Core)3
AVT 272Interdisciplinary Arts (Mason Core)3
AVT 385EcoArt (Mason Core)3
DANC 101Dance Appreciation (Mason Core)3
DANC 119Dance in Popular Culture (Mason Core)3
DANC 125Modern/Contemporary Dance I (Mason Core)3
DANC 131Beginning Jazz Technique (Mason Core)3
DANC 145Ballet I (Mason Core)3
DANC 161Beginning Tap Dance (Mason Core)3
DANC 225Modern/Contemporary Dance II (Mason Core)3
DANC 231Intermediate Jazz Technique (Mason Core)3
DANC 245Ballet II (Mason Core)3
DANC 301What is Dance? (Mason Core)3
DANC 325Modern/Contemporary Dance III (Mason Core)1-3
DANC 331Advanced Jazz Dance (Mason Core)3
DANC 345Ballet III (Mason Core)1-3
DANC 390Dance History I (Mason Core)3
DANC 391Dance History II (Mason Core)3
DANC 425Advanced Modern/Contemporary Dance I (Mason Core)1-3
DSGN 102Design in the Modern World (Mason Core)3
ENGH 315Folklore and Folklife (Mason Core)3
ENGH 370Introduction to Documentary (Mason Core)3
ENGH 371Television Studies (Mason Core)3
ENGH 372Introduction to Film (Mason Core)3
ENGH 374Screening the Global City (Mason Core)3
ENGH 396Introduction to Creative Writing (Mason Core)3
FAVS 204Ways of Seeing: Perception, Form and Film (Mason Core)3
FAVS 225Introduction to World Cinema (Mason Core)3
FAVS 280Writing for the Moving Image (Mason Core)3
GAME 101Introduction to Game Design (Mason Core)3
HIST 316History of Modern Architecture (Mason Core)3
INTS 103Human Creativity: Science and Art (Mason Core)6
INTS 245Visual Culture and Society (Mason Core)4
INTS 346Art as Social Action (Mason Core)4
MUSI 100Fundamentals of Music (Mason Core)3
MUSI 101Introduction to Classical Music (Mason Core)3
MUSI 102Popular Music in America (Mason Core)3
MUSI 106Fundamentals of Rock, Blues, and Jazz (Mason Core)3
MUSI 107Jazz and Blues in America (Mason Core)3
MUSI 280Athletic and Ceremonial Ensemble (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 301Music in Motion Pictures (Mason Core)3
MUSI 302American Musical Theater (Mason Core)3
MUSI 380Wind Symphony (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 381University Chorale (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 382Piano Ensemble (Mason Core)1
MUSI 383Symphonic Band (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 385Chamber Singers (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 387Symphony Orchestra (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 389Jazz Ensemble (Mason Core)0-1
MUSI 485Chamber Ensembles (Mason Core)0-1
PHIL 156What Is Art? (Mason Core)3
RELI 237Religion and Art (Mason Core)3
THR 101Theatrical Medium (Mason Core)3
THR 150Global Theater Histories I (Mason Core)3
THR 151Global Theater Histories II (Mason Core)3
THR 210Acting I (Mason Core)3
THR 230Fundamentals of Production (Mason Core)3
THR 395Theater as the Life of the Mind (Mason Core)3
THR 411Great Film Directors (Mason Core)3
THR 412Great Film Performances (Mason Core)3

Global History (3 credits)

By focusing on historical experiences that reflect the diversity of Mason’s student body, students will be able to see how their families and communities fit within, and contribute to, global history from the pre-modern period to our present day. These courses offer a long-term historical perspective on structural issues challenging our world today, including demographic and environmental changes, national and global inequalities, and the underrepresentation of marginalized groups. Students will gain an understanding of how interconnections and inter-dependencies have been forged through the global movement of people, pathogens, goods, and ideas.   

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing a Global History course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify major chronological developments in global history from the pre-modern period (before 1400 CE) to the present.   
  2. Communicate a historical argument through writing, speech, and/or digital media using a variety of primary and secondary sources.   
  3. Apply historical knowledge and historical thinking to contemporary global issues. 

Required:

One approved course.

HIST 125Introduction to Global History (Mason Core)3
HIST 394Globalization and History (Mason Core) 13
1

Registration limited to students with Junior or Senior standing. Incoming first year students should plan to take HIST 125 to meet this requirement. 

Global Understanding (3 credits)

The goal of the Global Understanding category is to help students see the world from multiple perspectives, reflect upon their positions in a global society, and be prepared for future engagement as global citizens. While it may include a historical perspective, Global Understanding courses focus primarily on a contemporary understanding of one’s place in a global society.

Learning Outcomes:

Courses in the Global Understanding category must meet a minimum of three learning outcomes. Upon completing the Global Understanding category, students will be able to: 

1. Identify and articulate one’s own values and how those values influence their interactions and relationships with others, both locally and globally. 

2. Demonstrate understanding of how the patterns and processes of globalization make visible the interconnections and differences among and within contemporary global societies. 

3. Demonstrate the development of intercultural competencies. 

4. Explore individual and collective responsibilities within a global society through analytical, practical, or creative responses to problems or issues, using resources appropriate to the field. 

Required:

One approved course.

Note: A student may also meet the Global Understanding requirement through a full-semester study abroad or 12-15 credit hour program; shorter-term study abroad courses must include and meet the learning outcomes listed below and be evaluated prior to departure. 

ANTH 302Peoples and Cultures of Latin America (Mason Core)3
ANTH 307Ancient Mesoamerica (Mason Core)3
ANTH 308Peoples and Cultures of the Middle East (Mason Core)3
ANTH 309Peoples and Cultures of India (Mason Core)3
ANTH 312Political Anthropology (Mason Core)3
ANTH 313Myth, Magic, and Mind (Mason Core)3
ANTH 331Refugees (Mason Core)3
ANTH 332Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Globalization (Mason Core)3
ANTH 382Urban Anthropology (Mason Core)3
ARTH 319Art and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East (Mason Core)3
ARTH 320Art of the Islamic World (Mason Core)3
ARTH 382Arts of India (Mason Core)3
ARTH 383Arts of Southeast Asia (Mason Core)3
ARTH 384Arts of China (Mason Core)3
ARTH 385Arts of Japan (Mason Core)3
BUS 200Global Environment of Business (Mason Core)3
CEIE 100Environmental Engineering around the World (Mason Core)3
COMM 305Foundations of Intercultural Communication (Mason Core)3
CONF 340Global Conflict Analysis and Resolution (Mason Core)3
CRIM 405Law and Justice around the World (Mason Core)3
CULT 320Globalization and Culture (Mason Core)3
DANC 118Global Dance Perspectives I (Mason Core)3
DANC 318Global Dance Perspectives II (Mason Core)3
DANC 418Global Dance Intensive (Mason Core)3
ECON 360Economics of Developing Areas (Mason Core)3
ECON 361Economic Development of Latin America (Mason Core)3
ECON 362African Economic Development (Mason Core)3
ECON 380Economies in Transition (Mason Core)3
EDSE 204Disability in a Global Society (Mason Core)3
ENGH 362Global Voices (Mason Core)3
ENGH 366The Idea of a World Literature (Mason Core)3
ENGH 374Screening the Global City (Mason Core)3
ENGR 398Applied Engineering Abroad (Mason Core)3
EVPP 381Nature and Culture in Global Wetlands (Mason Core)4
FAVS 300Global Horror Film (Mason Core)3
FAVS 320Afrofuturism and Their Kin (Mason Core)3
FOLK 100Global Folklore (Mason Core)3
FRLN 331Contexts for Global Cinema (Mason Core)3
GCH 205Global Health (Mason Core)3
GEOC 150International Experience: Global Understanding (Mason Core)0
GGS 101Major World Regions (Mason Core)3
GGS 317Geography of China (Mason Core)3
GLOA 101Introduction to Global Affairs (Mason Core)3
GOVT 132Introduction to International Politics (Mason Core)3
GOVT 133Introduction to Comparative Politics (Mason Core)3
GOVT 134Grand Challenges to Human Security (Mason Core)3
HIST 251Survey of East Asian History (Mason Core)3
HIST 252Survey of East Asian History (Mason Core)3
HIST 261Survey of African History (Mason Core)3
HIST 262Survey of African History (Mason Core)3
HIST 271Survey of Latin American History (Mason Core)3
HIST 272Survey of Latin American History (Mason Core)3
HIST 281Survey of Middle Eastern Civilization (Mason Core)3
HIST 282Survey of Middle Eastern Civilization (Mason Core)3
HIST 315STEM and Society: A History (Mason Core)3
HIST 328Rise of Russia (Mason Core)3
HIST 329Modern Russia and the Soviet Union (Mason Core)3
HIST 354Modern China (Mason Core)3
HIST 356Modern Japan (Mason Core)3
HIST 357Postwar Japan (Mason Core)3
HIST 358Post-1949 China (Mason Core)3
HIST 360History of South Africa (Mason Core)3
HIST 364Revolution and Radical Politics in Latin America (Mason Core)3
HIST 365Conquest and Colonization in Latin America (Mason Core)3
HIST 384Global History of Christianity (Mason Core)3
HIST 387Topics in Global History (Mason Core)3-6
HIST 462Women in Islamic Society (Mason Core)3
INTS 102Global Networks and Communities (Mason Core)6
INTS 303Introduction to International Studies (Mason Core)3
INTS 315Spirituality and Conflict Transformation (Mason Core)6
INTS 390International Internship (Mason Core)1-6
INTS 406Global Leadership (Mason Core)3
INTS 416Refugee and Internal Displacement (Mason Core)3
INYO 105U.S. American Cultures (Mason Core)3
JAPA 310Japanese Culture in a Global World (Mason Core)3
MBUS 305Introduction to International Business (Mason Core)3
MUSI 103Musics of the World (Mason Core)3
MUSI 431Music History in Society III (Mason Core)3
PHIL 243Global Environmental Ethics (Mason Core)3
PROV 150International Experience: Global Understanding (Mason Core)0
PSYC 379Applied Cross-Cultural Psychology (Mason Core)3
RELI 100The Human Religious Experience (Mason Core)3
RELI 211Introduction to Religions of the "West" (Mason Core)3
RELI 212Introduction to Religions of Asia (Mason Core)3
RELI 310Judaism (Mason Core)3
RELI 313Hinduism (Mason Core)3
RELI 315Buddhism (Mason Core)3
RELI 322Religions of Africa (Mason Core)3
RELI 341Spirituality and Healing (Mason Core)3
RELI 358Islamic Thought (Mason Core)3
RELI 369Religion and Revolution in Latin America (Mason Core)3
RELI 384Global History of Christianity (Mason Core)3
RUSS 354Contemporary Post-Soviet Life (Mason Core)3
SOCI 120Globalization and Society (Mason Core)3
SOCI 320Globalization and Social Change (Mason Core)3
SOCI 330US Immigrants and Immigration (Mason Core)3
SOCI 332The Urban World (Mason Core)3
SPAN 212Intermediate Spanish II: Local and Global Contexts (Mason Core)3
SPAN 322Introduction to Latin American Culture (Mason Core)3
SPAN 466Latin American Civilization and Culture (Mason Core)3
SYST 202Engineering Systems in a Complex World (Mason Core)3
SYST 497Applied Engineering Abroad (Mason Core)3
THR 359World Stages (Mason Core)3
TOUR 210Global Understanding through Travel and Tourism (Mason Core)3
UNIV 381Foundations for Building a Just Society (Mason Core)3
WMST 100Global Representations of Women (Mason Core)3

Literature (3 credits)

Courses in the Literature category develop students’ abilities to read for comprehension, detail, and nuance; identify specific literary qualities of language as employed in texts they read; analyze the ways specific literary devices contribute to the meaning of a text; identify and evaluate the contribution of the social, political, historical, and cultural contexts in which a literary text is produced; and evaluate a critical argument in others’ and one’s own context. 

Learning Outcomes:

Courses in the Literature category must meet a minimum of three learning outcomes. Upon completing the Literature category, students will be able to: 

  1. Read for comprehension, detail, and nuance.
  2. Identify the specific literary qualities of language as employed in the texts they read.
  3. Analyze the ways specific literary devices contribute to the meaning of a text.
  4. Identify and evaluate the contribution of the social, political, historical, and cultural contexts in which a literary text is produced.
  5. Evaluate a critical argument in others' writing as well as one's own.

Required:

One approved course.

ARAB 325Major Arab Writers/Stories (Mason Core)3
CHIN 310Survey of Chinese Literature (Mason Core)3
CHIN 311Modern Chinese Literature in Translation (Mason Core)3
CHIN 325Major Chinese Writers (Mason Core)3
CHIN 328Asian American Women Writers (Mason Core)3
CLAS 250Classical Mythology (Mason Core)3
CLAS 260The Legacy of Greece and Rome (Mason Core)3
CLAS 340Greek and Roman Epic (Mason Core)3
CLAS 350Greek and Roman Tragedy (Mason Core)3
CLAS 360Greek and Roman Comedy (Mason Core)3
CLAS 380Greek and Roman Novels (Mason Core)3
ELED 258Children's Literature for Teaching in Diverse Settings (Mason Core)3
ENGH 201Reading and Writing about Texts (Mason Core)3
ENGH 202Texts and Contexts (Mason Core)3
ENGH 203Western Literary Tradition (Mason Core)3
ENGH 204Western Literary Traditions (Mason Core)3
FREN 325Major French Writers (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)3
FREN 329Problems of Western Civilization in French Literature (Mason Core)3
FRLN 330Topics in World Literature (Mason Core)3
GERM 325Major Writers (Mason Core)3
HIST 334American Scriptures (Mason Core)3
INTS 101Narratives of Identity (Mason Core)6
INTS 363Social Justice Narratives (Mason Core)3
ITAL 320Topics in Italian Film and Literature (Mason Core)3
ITAL 325Major Italian Writers (Mason Core)3
JAPA 340Topics in Japanese Literature (Mason Core)3
KORE 311Modern Korean Literature in Translation (Mason Core)3
PHIL 253Philosophy and Literature (Mason Core)3
RELI 235Religion and Literature (Mason Core)3
RELI 333Spiritual Autobiography (Mason Core)3
RELI 339The Bible as Literature (Mason Core)3
RUSS 325Major Russian Writers (Mason Core)3
RUSS 32619th-Century Literature in Translation (Mason Core)3
RUSS 32720th-Century Literature in Translation (Mason Core)3
SEED 370Young Adult Literature in Multicultural Settings (Mason Core)3
SPAN 325Major Hispanic Writers (Mason Core)3

Natural Science (7 credits total)

Natural Science courses engage students in scientific exploration; foster their curiosity; enhance their enthusiasm for science; and enable them to apply scientific knowledge and reasoning to personal, professional, and public decision-making. Natural Science Lab courses must meet all five learning outcomes. Natural Science Overview (non-lab) courses must meet learning outcomes 1 through 4.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing the Natural Science courses, students will be able to:  

  1. Understand how scientific inquiry is based on investigation of evidence from the natural world, and that scientific knowledge and understanding: a) evolves based on new evidence, and b) differs from personal and cultural beliefs.
  2. Recognize the scope and limits of science.
  3. Recognize and articulate the relationship between the natural sciences and society and the application of science to societal challenges (e.g., health, conservation, sustainability, energy, natural disasters, etc.).
  4. Evaluate scientific information (e.g., distinguish primary and secondary sources, assess credibility and validity of information).
  5. Participate in scientific inquiry and communicate the elements of the process, including: a) making careful and systematic observations, b) developing and testing a hypothesis, c) analyzing evidence, and d) interpreting results.

Required:

Two approved science courses. At least one course will include laboratory experience.

Approved combinations of lecture and lab sections (4 credits):

Note: The lecture components of the approved combinations listed below can be taken alone to fulfill 3 credits of the non-lab requirement, or they can be paired with the lab component to fulfill 4 credits of the lab requirement. The lab components of the approved combinations below must be taken after or concurrently with their approved lecture.

Astronomy (Mason Core)
and The Solar System Lab (Mason Core)
Astronomy (Mason Core)
and Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe Lab (Mason Core)
The Solar System (Mason Core)
and The Solar System Lab (Mason Core)
Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe (Mason Core)
and Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe Lab (Mason Core)
Introductory Biology II-Survey of Cell and Molecular Biology (Mason Core)
and Introductory Biology II Laboratory (Mason Core)
Intro Biology II Lecture (Mason Core)
and Introductory Biology I Laboratory (Mason Core)
Introduction to Computational and Data Sciences (Mason Core)
and Introduction to Computational and Data Sciences Lab (Mason Core)
General Chemistry I (Mason Core)
and General Chemistry Laboratory I (Mason Core)
General Chemistry II (Mason Core)
and General Chemistry Laboratory II (Mason Core)
General Chemistry for Engineers Lecture (Mason Core)
and General Chemistry for Engineers Lab (Mason Core)
Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science (Mason Core)
and Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science Lab (Mason Core)
Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science (Mason Core)
and Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science Lab (Mason Core)
Ecosphere - Introduction to Environmental Science I-Lecture (Mason Core)
and Ecosphere- Introduction to Environmental Science I- Lab (Mason Core)
Ecosphere: Introduction to Environmental Science II-Lecture (Mason Core)
and Ecosphere: Introduction to Environmental Science II–Lab (Mason Core)
Physical Geology (Mason Core)
and Physical Geology Lab (Mason Core)
Historical Geology (Mason Core)
and Historical Geology Laboratory (Mason Core)
The Changing Ocean (Mason Core)
and The Changing Ocean Laboratory (Mason Core)
Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science (Mason Core)
and Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science Lab (Mason Core)
Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science (Mason Core)
and Introduction to the Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science Lab (Mason Core)
University Physics I (Mason Core)
and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core)
Introductory and Modern Physics I (Mason Core)
and University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core)
College Physics I (Mason Core)
and College Physics I Lab (Mason Core)
College Physics II (Mason Core)
and College Physics II Lab (Mason Core)
University Physics II (Mason Core)
and University Physics II Laboratory (Mason Core)
University Physics III (Mason Core)
and University Physics III Laboratory (Mason Core)
Introductory and Modern Physics II (Mason Core)
and University Physics II Laboratory (Mason Core)
Natural Science Overview (non-lab) (3 credits):

Note: For additional Natural Science Overview (non-lab) options, please see the list above. The lecture components of the approved course pairings can be taken alone for non-lab credit.

ANTH 135Introduction to Biological Anthropology (Mason Core)3
ASTR 302Foundations of Cosmological Thought (Mason Core)3
ASTR 303Black Holes (Mason Core)3
BIOL 140Plants and People (Mason Core)3
CHEM 101Introduction to Modern Chemistry (Mason Core)3
CHEM 102Chemistry for Changing Times (Mason Core)3
CLIM 101Global Warming: Weather, Climate, and Society (Mason Core)3
COS 301Great Ideas in Science (Mason Core)3
EVPP 201Environment and You: Issues for the Twenty-First Century (Mason Core)3
FRSC 101Principles of Forensic Science (Mason Core)3
GEOL 134Evolution and Extinction (Mason Core)3
GGS 102Physical Geography (Mason Core)3
INTS 103Human Creativity: Science and Art (Mason Core)6
INTS 210Sustainable World (Mason Core)4
INTS 211Introduction to Conservation Studies (Mason Core)3-6
INTS 301Science in the News (Mason Core)3
INTS 410Contemporary Health: Intersections in Science and Society (Mason Core)4
NEUR 101Introduction to Neuroscience (Mason Core)3
NUTR 295Introduction to Nutrition (Mason Core)3
PHIL 271How Science Works (Mason Core)3
PHYS 106The Quantum World: A Continuous Revolution in What We Know and How We Live (Mason Core)3
PHYS 160University Physics I (Mason Core)3
Natural Science with Lab (4 credits):

Note: For additional options, see the list above for approved course pairings.

ASTR 115Finding New Worlds (Mason Core)4
BIOL 102Introductory Biology I-Survey of Biodiversity and Ecology (Mason Core)4
BIOL 213Cell Structure and Function (Mason Core)4
CHEM 103Chemical Science in a Modern Society (Mason Core)4
CHEM 104Chemistry for Changing Times (Mason Core)4
CHEM 155Introduction to Environmental Chemistry I (Mason Core)4
CHEM 156Introduction to Environmental Chemistry II (Mason Core)4
CLIM 102Introduction to Global Climate Change Science (Mason Core)4
GGS 121Dynamic Atmosphere and Hydrosphere (Mason Core)4
INTS 311The Mysteries of Migration: Consequences for Conservation (Mason Core)6
INTS 401Conservation Biology (Mason Core)6
INTS 403Conservation Behavior (Mason Core)6
PHYS 103Physics and Everyday Phenomena I (Mason Core)4
PHYS 104Physics and Everyday Phenomena II (Mason Core)4

Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)

Students will develop the ability to explain how individuals, groups, or institutions are influenced by contextual factors; demonstrate awareness of changes in social and cultural constructs; and use appropriate methods and resources to apply social and behavioral science concepts, terminology, principles, and theories in analysis of significant human issues, past or present. 

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing a Social and Behavioral course, students will be able to:

  1. Explain how individuals, groups, or institutions are influenced by contextual factors.
  2. Demonstrate awareness of changes in social and cultural constructs.
  3. Use appropriate methods and resources to apply social and behavioral science concepts, terminology, principles, and theories in the analysis of significant human issues, past or present. 

Required:

One approved course.

AFAM 200Introduction to African American Studies (Mason Core)3
ANTH 114Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (Mason Core)3
ANTH 120Unearthing the Past: Prehistory, Culture and Evolution (Mason Core)3
ANTH 121People of the Earth: Humanity's First Five Million Years (Mason Core)3
ANTH 135Introduction to Biological Anthropology (Mason Core)3
ANTH 363Humans, Disease, and Death (Mason Core)3
ANTH 396Issues in Anthropology: Social Sciences (Mason Core)3
BUS 100Business and Society (Mason Core)3
CONF 101Conflict and Our World (Mason Core)3
CONS 410Human Dimensions in Conservation (Mason Core)3
CRIM 100Introduction to Criminal Justice (Mason Core)3
ECON 100Economics for the Citizen (Mason Core)3
ECON 103Contemporary Microeconomic Principles (Mason Core)3
ECON 104Contemporary Macroeconomic Principles (Mason Core)3
ECON 105Environmental Economics for the Citizen (Mason Core)3
ECON 367Money, Markets, and Economic Policy (Mason Core)3
EDEP 110Academic Success Through Self-Regulated Learning (Mason Core)3
EDEP 350Perspectives on Achievement Motivation (Mason Core)3
EDSE 203Disability in American Culture (Mason Core)3
EDUC 200Introduction to Education: Teaching, Learning and Schools (Mason Core)3
EDUC 203Disability in American Culture (Mason Core)3
GCH 325Stress and Well-Being (Mason Core)3
GGS 103Human Geography (Mason Core)3
GGS 301Political Geography (Mason Core)3
GOVT 101Democratic Theory and Practice (Mason Core)3
GOVT 103Introduction to American Government (Mason Core)3
GOVT 367Money, Markets and Economic Policy (Mason Core)3
HDFS 200Individual and Family Development (Mason Core)3
HEAL 230Introduction to Health Behavior (Mason Core)3
HIST 121Formation of the American Republic (Mason Core)3
HIST 122Development of Modern America (Mason Core)3
INTS 203Inquiry for Action: Facilitating Change (Mason Core)6
INTS 300Law and Justice (Mason Core)3
INTS 304Social Movements and Community Activism (Mason Core)4
INTS 316Introduction to Childhood Studies (Mason Core)4
INTS 317Issues in Family Relationships (Mason Core)4
INTS 319Contemporary Youth Studies (Mason Core)3
INTS 321Parent-Child Relations (Mason Core)4
INTS 331The Nonprofit Sector (Mason Core)4
INTS 334Environmental Justice (Mason Core)4
INTS 336Poverty, Wealth and Inequality in the US (Mason Core)3
INTS 347Gender Representation in Popular Culture (Mason Core)3-6
INTS 362Social Justice and Human Rights (Mason Core)3
INTS 371Food Systems and Policy (Mason Core)3
INTS 436Social Justice Education (Mason Core)4
INTS 437Critical Race Studies (Mason Core)3
INTS 438Representations of Race (Mason Core)4
LING 100Human Language (Mason Core)3
LING 306General Linguistics (Mason Core)3
PSYC 100Basic Concepts in Psychology (Mason Core)3
PSYC 211Lifespan Development (Mason Core)3
PSYC 231Social Psychology (Mason Core)3
PSYC 333Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Mason Core)3
SOCI 101Introductory Sociology (Mason Core)3
SOCI 308Race and Ethnicity in a Changing World (Mason Core)3
SOCI 315Contemporary Gender Relations (Mason Core)3
SOCI 352Social Problems and Solutions (Mason Core)3
SOCI 355Social Inequality (Mason Core)3
SOCI 360Youth Culture and Society (Mason Core)3
SOCI 371The Individual and Society (Mason Core)3
SOCW 200Introduction to Social Work (Mason Core)3
SPAN 430Spanish in the United States (Mason Core)3
TOUR 311Women and Tourism (Mason Core)3
UNIV 381Foundations for Building a Just Society (Mason Core)3
WMST 200Introduction to Women and Gender Studies (Mason Core)3
WMST 208Introduction to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Studies (Mason Core)3

Integration Requirements (9 credits)

Written Communication (upper-level)

Learning Outcomes:

As the second course in Mason’s vertical writing curriculum, students build on their understanding of rhetorical and genre awareness and writing processes begun in Foundation-level Written Communication through advanced rhetorical analysis, inquiry-based research into a variety of scholarly and public perspectives, and writing oriented toward investigating, engaging with, and responding to meaningful disciplinary questions in a variety of academic and non-academic writing contexts. Across the Foundation and Integration-level Written Communication courses, students learn to use writing to explore, construct, and communicate knowledge. These skills are built upon in Writing Intensive courses where students engage with increasingly complex rhetorical and field-specific problems, issues, or areas of inquiry and creativity.  

Required:

One approved course.

ENGH 302Advanced Composition (Mason Core)3

Writing Intensive Course Requirement (usually 3 credits)

As part of the university's commitment to student writers in all undergraduate programs, at least one upper-division course in each majoris designated as fulfilling the "Writing Intensive" (WI) requirement. As the third course in Mason’s vertical writing curriculum, WI courses build upon the knowledge and skills that students develop in ENGH 100 or 101 at the Foundation level and ENGH 302 at the Integration level. To do so, WI courses further integrate rhetorical and field-specific knowledge as students engage the specific writing, critical thinking, and problem-solving methods of their chosen fields across a range of academic, professional, and civic contexts. 

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completing a Writing Intensive Course, students will be able to: 

  1. Use informal or formal writing in ways that deepen their awareness of the field of study and its subject matter (Writing to Learn).   
  2. Compose one or more written genres specific to the field of study in order to communicate key ideas tailored to specific audiences and purposes; genres may be academic, public, or professional (Writing to Communicate).   
  3. Draft and revise written works based on feedback they receive from instructors and peers, using strategies appropriate to the genre, audience, and purpose (Writing as a Process). 

Required:

One approved course. The following courses have been approved to meet the Writing Intensive requirement. NOTE: Students MUST select the course approved for their major.  See specific degree program for details. 

ACCT 461Assurance and Audit Services3
ACCT 493Financial Planning and Wealth Management Capstone3
ANTH 490History of Anthropological Theory3
ARAB 331Reading and Conversation II3
ARTH 400Historiography and Methods of Research in Art History (Topic Varies)3
ARTH 420Advanced Studies in Ancient Art3
ARTH 430Advanced Studies in Medieval or Islamic Art3
ARTH 440RS: Advanced Studies in Renaissance and Baroque Art3
ARTH 460RS: Advanced Studies in 20th-Century European Art3
ARTH 471Advanced Studies in Art of the United States3
ARTH 472RS: Advanced Studies in 20th-Century Latin American Art3
ARTH 474Advanced Studies in Contemporary Art3
ARTH 482RS: Advanced Studies in Asian Art3
ARTH 490Independent Study in Art History3
ARTH 491Independent Study in Art History3
ARTH 492Honors Directed Readings3
ARTH 493Honors Directed Research3
ARTH 495RS: Curating an Exhibit3
ARTH 499Advanced Studies in Art History3
ASTR 402RS: Methods of Observational Astronomy (Mason Core)4
AVT 395Writing for Artists3
AVT 396Writing for Designers3
BENG 360Biomedical Imaging3
BIOL 308Foundations of Ecology and Evolution5
BIOL 338Lab for Fundamentals of Ecology and Evolution2
BIS 390The Research Process3
CDS 302Scientific Data and Databases3
CEIE 301Engineering and Economic Models in Civil Engineering3
CHEM 336Physical Chemistry Lab I2
CHEM 465Biochemistry Lab2
CHIN 480Fourth-Year Chinese I3
CLIM 408Senior Research3
COMM 300Rhetorical Theory and Criticism3
CONF 302Culture, Identity, and Conflict3
CRIM 495Capstone in Criminology, Law and Society (Mason Core)3
CS 306Synthesis of Ethics and Law for the Computing Professional (Mason Core)3
CS 321Software Engineering3
CYSE 491Engineering Senior Seminar3
DANC 390Dance History I (Mason Core)3
DANC 391Dance History II (Mason Core)3
ECE 333Linear Electronics I3
ECED 411Assessment of Diverse Young Learners3
ECON 355The Political Economy of Nonprofit Institutions3
ECON 365Topics in Economic History3
ECON 395Effective Writing in Economics3
ECON 435Economics of Energy3
ECON 470Economics of Regulation3
ECON 485Smithian Political Economy I3
EDSE 452Intersectionality and Disability3
ELED 459Researching Problems of Practice in Elementary Education3
ENGH 305Dimensions of Writing and Literature3
EVPP 337Environmental Policy Making in Developing Countries3
FAVS 304Ways of Thinking: Film, TV, and Beyond3
FAVS 380TV Writing3
FAVS 496Advanced Visual Storytelling (Mason Core)3
FAVS 498Development for Senior Project3
FNAN 477Student Managed Investment Fund3
FNAN 493Financial Planning and Wealth Management Capstone3
FNAN 498RS: Contemporary Topics in Finance3
FREN 309Reading and Writing Skills Development3
FRSC 302Forensic Trace Analysis3
FRSC 304Forensic Chemistry3
GAME 332RS: Story Design for Computer Games3
GCH 411Health Program Planning and Evaluation3
GCH 611Health Program Planning and Evaluation3
GEOL 305Environmental Geology3
GEOL 317Geomorphology4
GEOL 334Vertebrate Paleontology4
GGS 415Seminar in Geographic Thought and Methodology3
GOVT 490Synthesis Seminar (Mason Core)3
GOVT 491Honors Seminar (Mason Core)3
HAP 465Integration of Professional Skills and Issues (Mason Core)3
HDFS 401Family Law and Public Policy3
HIST 300Introduction to Historical Method (Mason Core)3
HIST 499RS: Senior Seminar in History (Mason Core)3
INTS 321Parent-Child Relations (Mason Core)4
INTS 334Environmental Justice (Mason Core)4
INTS 491Senior Capstone3
IT 343IT Project Management3
KINE 450Research Methods3
KORE 370Advanced Korean Writing3
LAS 499Research Seminar in Latin American Studies (Mason Core)3
MATH 300Introduction to Advanced Mathematics3
ME 444Mechanical Design II (Mason Core)3
MGMT 313Organizational Behavior3
MIS 330Systems Analysis and Design3
MIS 431Data Mining for Business Applications3
MKTG 471Marketing Management3
MLAB 300Science Writing2
MUSI 332Music History in Society II3
MUSI 438Music History in Society B3
NEUR 410Current Topics in Neuroscience3
NEUR 411Seminar in Neuroscience3
NURS 465Examination and Integration of Professional and Health Care Issues (Mason Core)3
NURS 480Professional Issues in Nursing3
NUTR 326Food Systems3
OSCM 456Quality Management3
PHED 340Social and Cultural Issues in Physical Education3
PHIL 421Seminar (Mason Core)3
PHIL 422Honors Seminar (Mason Core)3
PHYS 407Senior Laboratory in Modern Physics (Mason Core)4
PHYS 410Computational Physics Capstone (Mason Core)4
PSYC 301Research Methods in Psychology4
PSYC 304Principles of Learning4
PSYC 309Sensation, Perception, and Information Processing4
RELI 420Capstone Seminar in Studies of Religion3
RUSS 302Russian Conversation and Composition3
RUSS 325Major Russian Writers (Mason Core)3
SOCI 303Methods and Logic of Inquiry3
SOCI 412Contemporary Sociological Theory3
SOCI 485RS: Sociological Analysis and Practice (Mason Core)3
SOCW 471Research in Social Work3
SPAN 370Spanish Writing and Stylistics3
SRST 450Research Methods3
STAT 489Pre-Capstone Professional Development3
SYST 489Senior Seminar3
THR 350Script Analysis3
THR 351Dramatic Theory and Criticism3
THR 482Advanced Screenplay Workshop3

Synthesis or Capstone Experience Requirement (minimum 3 credits)

Students are required to complete either a Synthesis or a Capstone course to meet this requirement. 

Synthesis

The purpose of the Synthesis course is to provide students with the opportunity to synthesize the knowledge, skills, and values gained from the Mason Core curriculum. Synthesis courses strive to expand students' ability to master new content, think critically, and develop life-long learning skills across the disciplines. While it is not feasible to design courses that cover "all" areas of general education, Synthesis courses should function as a careful alignment of disciplinary goals with a range of Mason Core learning outcomes.

Learning Outcomes:

The Mason Core Synthesis course must address outcomes 1 and 2, and at least one outcome under 3. Upon completing a Synthesis course, students will be able to:

  1. Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms, applying appropriate rhetorical standards (e.g., audience adaptation, language, argument, organization, evidence, etc.).
  2. Connect issues in a given field to wider intellectual, community, or societal concerns using perspectives from two or more disciplines.
  3. Apply critical thinking skills to:
    1. Evaluate the quality, credibility, and limitations of an argument or a solution using appropriate evidence or resources, OR
    2. Judge the quality or value of an idea, work, or principle based on appropriate analytics and standards.

Required:

One approved course.

Synthesis Courses

ANTH 400Engaging the World: Anthropological Perspectives (Mason Core)3
ARTH 394The Museum (Mason Core)3
AVT 385EcoArt (Mason Core)3
AVT 497Senior Project (Mason Core)3
AVT 498Senior Design Project (Mason Core)3
BENG 492Senior Advanced Design Project I (Mason Core)3
BINF 354Foundations in Mathematical Biology (Mason Core)3
BIOL 301Biology and Society (Mason Core)3
BIS 490RS: Senior Project (Mason Core)4
CEIE 490Civil Engineering Senior Design Project I (Mason Core)1-3
COMM 326Rhetoric of Social Movements and Political Controversy (Mason Core)3
COMM 362Argument and Public Policy (Mason Core)3
COMM 454Free Speech and Ethics (Mason Core)3
CONF 490RS: Integration (Mason Core)3
CONS 490RS: Integrated Conservation Strategies (Mason Core)3
CONS 491RS: Conservation Management Planning (Mason Core)4
COS 310Introduction to Science Policy (Mason Core)3
CRIM 495Capstone in Criminology, Law and Society (Mason Core)3
CS 306Synthesis of Ethics and Law for the Computing Professional (Mason Core)3
DANC 490Senior Dance Seminar (Mason Core)3
ECE 492Senior Advanced Design Project I (Mason Core)1
ECE 493RS: Senior Advanced Design Project II (Mason Core)2
EVPP 480Sustainability in Action (Mason Core)4
FAVS 352Ethics of Film and Video (Mason Core)3
FRLN 385Multilingualism, Identity, and Power (Mason Core)3
GAME 490Senior Game Design Capstone (Mason Core)3
GEOL 420Earth Science and Policy (Mason Core)3
GGS 303Geography of Resource Conservation (Mason Core)3
GGS 304Population Geography (Mason Core)3
GOVT 490Synthesis Seminar (Mason Core)3
GOVT 491Honors Seminar (Mason Core)3
HAP 465Integration of Professional Skills and Issues (Mason Core)3
HDFS 400Advanced Family Processes (Mason Core)3
HIST 300Introduction to Historical Method (Mason Core)3
HIST 499RS: Senior Seminar in History (Mason Core)3
IT 492Senior Design Project I (Mason Core)3
LAS 499Research Seminar in Latin American Studies (Mason Core)3
MATH 400History of Math (Topic Varies) (Mason Core)3
NEUR 424Sleep and Circadian Rhythms (Mason Core)3
NEUR 473Current Neuroscience Research in Germany (Mason Core)3
NURS 465Examination and Integration of Professional and Health Care Issues (Mason Core)3
PHIL 309Bioethics (Mason Core)3
PHIL 343Topics in Environmental Philosophy (Mason Core)3
PHIL 379Perspectives on Time (Mason Core)3
PHYS 346Quarks to Strings (Mason Core)3
PROV 342The George Mason Debates in Current Affairs (Mason Core)3
PSYC 405Mystery, Madness, and Murder (Mason Core)3
PSYC 406Psychology of Communication (Mason Core)3
PSYC 427Community Engagement for Social Change (Mason Core)3
RELI 490Comparative Study of Religions (Mason Core)3
RUSS 353Russian Civilization (Mason Core)3
SOCI 377Art and Society (Mason Core)3
SOCI 483The Sociology of Higher Education (Mason Core)3
SOCW 375Human Behavior and the Family Life Course (Mason Core)3
SPAN 388Introduction to Latina/o Studies (Mason Core)3
SYST 495Senior Design Project II (Mason Core)3
THR 440Advanced Studies in Directing/Dramaturgy (Mason Core)3
THR 496Text in Production (Mason Core)3

Capstone:

The purpose of the Capstone course, or sequence of courses, is to provide a high impact, culminating element of an undergraduate education, helping students develop a more comprehensive and integrative understanding of their area of study and utilize critical thinking skills. Capstone courses provide students opportunities to apply and demonstrate their knowledge and generally involve integrative/applied/experiential projects. Student learning in a Capstone course is assessed using a set of identified program-level learning outcomes, as well as for critical thinking, as defined by the American Association of Colleges & Universities.  

While each academic degree program defines its learning outcomes, a Capstone course or sequence should follow these guidelines: 

  • Minimum of 3 credits 
  • Later in the curriculum, after a student has taken at least 85 credits, and at the 400 course level 
  • No more than 35 students in the course or equivalent instructional/mentored support
  • Emphasis on experiential/applied/integrative learning
  • Allow students to apply critical thinking skills
  • Learning outcomes defined by the degree program 

Required: One approved upper-division course. Students should speak with an advisor to determine the appropriate course to fulfill their major’s requirement.

Capstone Courses

ARAB 351Media Arabic (Spoken and Written) (Mason Core)3
ARAB 440Topics in Arabic Religious Thought and Texts (Mason Core)3
ASTR 402RS: Methods of Observational Astronomy (Mason Core)4
ATEP 441Senior Seminar in Athletic Training (Mason Core)3
AVT 453Professional Practices (Mason Core)3
AVT 497Senior Project (Mason Core)3
AVT 498Senior Design Project (Mason Core)3
BAS 491Applied Sciences Capstone (Mason Core)3
BAS 493BAS Capstone (Mason Core)3
BENG 492Senior Advanced Design Project I (Mason Core)3
BIOL 379RS: Ecological Sustainability (Mason Core)4
BUS 498Capstone Course: Advanced Business Models (Mason Core)3
CDS 492Capstone in Data Science (Mason Core)3
CEIE 490Civil Engineering Senior Design Project I (Mason Core)1-3
CHEM 460Chemistry in the Kitchen (Mason Core)3
CHIN 318Introduction to Classical Chinese (Mason Core)3
CHIN 355Readings in Chinese Poetry and Poetics (Mason Core)3
CHIN 475Chinese Popular Culture (Mason Core)3
CONS 496Research in Conservation (Mason Core)6
CYSE 493Senior Advanced Design Project II (Mason Core)3
ECE 492Senior Advanced Design Project I (Mason Core)1
ECE 493RS: Senior Advanced Design Project II (Mason Core)2
ECED 490Internship in Early Childhood Education (Mason Core)6-12
ECED 492Internship in Early Childhood Education (Non-Licensure) (Mason Core)6-12
ECON 491Capstone in Economics (Mason Core)3
ECON 493Capstone Internship (Mason Core)3
ECON 495RS: Honors Thesis in Economics (Mason Core)3-6
EDSE 481Internship: Professional Services (Mason Core)12
EDSE 482Internship: General Curriculum (Mason Core)12
EDSE 483Internship: Adapted (Severe Disabilities) (Mason Core)12
EDSE 484Internship: Blindness and Visual Impairments (Mason Core)12
ELED 490Internship in Elementary Education (Mason Core)3-9
ENGH 401RS: Honors Thesis Writing Seminar (Mason Core)3
ENGH 417RS: Topics in Folklore Research (Mason Core)3
ENGH 458RS: Topics in Literary Research (Mason Core)3
ENGH 470RS: Topics in Film/Media History (Mason Core)3
ENGH 484RS: Writing Ethnography (Mason Core)3
ENGH 486RS: Writing Nonfiction for the Public (Mason Core)3
ENGH 495Capstone and Thesis (Mason Core)3
EVPP 378RS: Ecological Sustainability (Mason Core)4
FAVS 496Advanced Visual Storytelling (Mason Core)3
FAVS 497Senior Film Practicum (Mason Core)3
FAVS 499Senior Project (Mason Core)3
GAME 490Senior Game Design Capstone (Mason Core)3
GCH 465Community Health Capstone (Mason Core)3
GCH 466Physical Activity in Public Health Capstone (Mason Core)3
GLOA 400Global Affairs Capstone (Mason Core)3
GLOA 492Honors Research Project in Global Affairs (Mason Core)3
HAP 489Pre-Internship Seminar (Mason Core)3
HAP 498Health Administration Internship (Mason Core)4
HDFS 499Advanced Internship and Analysis in Human Development and Family Science (Mason Core)3
IT 492Senior Design Project I (Mason Core)3
IT 493Senior Design Project II (Mason Core)4
KINE 490Kinesiology Internship (Mason Core)6-12
LING 480RS: First Language Acquisition (Mason Core)3
MATH 401Mathematics through 3D Printing (Mason Core)3
ME 444Mechanical Design II (Mason Core)3
MUSI 324Junior Recital (Mason Core)1
MUSI 424Senior Recital (Mason Core)1
MUSI 489Music Technology Capstone (Mason Core)3
MUSI 490RS: Musical Communication in Context (Mason Core)3
MUSI 491Musical Communication in Performance (Mason Core)1
MUSI 495Internship in Music Education (Mason Core)6-12
NURS 490Health Policy and Advocacy in Nursing (Mason Core)3
PHED 415Student Teaching in Physical Education (Mason Core)12
PHIL 421Seminar (Mason Core)3
PHIL 422Honors Seminar (Mason Core)3
PHYS 407Senior Laboratory in Modern Physics (Mason Core)4
PHYS 410Computational Physics Capstone (Mason Core)4
RMGT 490Recreation Management Internship (Mason Core)12
SEED 492Internship: Secondary Education English (Mason Core)6
SEED 493Internship: Secondary Education Math (Mason Core)6
SEED 494Internship: Secondary Education Science (Mason Core)6
SEED 496Internship: Secondary Education Computer Science (Mason Core)6
SOCI 416Internship in Sociology I (Mason Core)3-6
SOCI 485RS: Sociological Analysis and Practice (Mason Core)3
SOCW 472RS: Integrative Methods in Social Action and Social Change (Mason Core)3
SPMT 490Internship (Mason Core)12
STAT 490Capstone in Statistics (Mason Core)3
SYST 495Senior Design Project II (Mason Core)3
TOUR 490Hospitality, Tourism, and Events Management Internship (Mason Core)12