George Mason University

George Mason University stands out as a unique institution, embodying the motto “All Together Different.” As Virginia’s largest public research university, it offers a distinctive academic experience that combines high-quality education, flexibility, inclusivity, responsiveness to societal needs, and a strong focus on solving global challenges. Here’s a breakdown of what makes George Mason University exceptional:

Mission and Core Values

George Mason University is a public, comprehensive, research university established by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Located in the National Capital Region, it is an innovative and inclusive academic community dedicated to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world.

High Quality

• Ranked among the top 50 public universities by the Wall Street Journal.
• #52 public university and #109 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
• Best in Virginia for advancing social mobility.
• #25 most innovative public university and #1 in Virginia.

Flexible

• Offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degrees, along with minors and certificate programs.
• Leads the nation in community college transfers and welcoming veterans and military students.
• Pioneered test-optional admissions in 2007.
• Direct-admissions program with 22 local high schools, automatically admitting nearly 400 students for the 2024-25 school year.

Inclusive

• 91% acceptance rate and 71% graduation rate.
• 89% of recent alumni report career advancement within six months of graduating.
• #1 for Diversity: 55% female, 46% students of color, 18% first-generation, and 9% international students.
• Graduation rates exceed the national average, with no disparity based on ethnicity or economic status.

Responsive

• Alumni are making significant impacts in fields like health care, technology, nonprofits, and government.
• Created Virginia’s first School of Computing, College of Public Health, and the nation’s first Cybersecurity Engineering Program.
• Continuously adapts to industry trends, creating and retiring programs to meet evolving needs.

Problem-Solvers

• #1 in Virginia and #25 nationally for innovation (U.S. News and World Report).
• Top 10 in research growth among U.S. public universities (National Science Foundation).
• 18 programs ranked best in Virginia based on research performance (EduRank).
• Faculty and students tackle grand challenges, from invasive species (e.g., Amy Fowler’s work on estuary mud crabs) to human-centric technology (e.g., Vivian Motti’s research on wearable tech for disabilities).

Global Leaders

• Student diversity mirrors the projected U.S. population in the mid-21st century, preparing graduates to lead in a multicultural world.
• Record-breaking 11,000 degree and certificate earners in spring 2023.
• Welcomed its largest and most academically prepared freshman class in fall 2023.

George Mason University’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence ensures that its students are not only prepared for the future but are also actively shaping it. Whether through groundbreaking research, flexible learning options, or a diverse and inclusive community, George Mason stands as a leader in higher education.