Mason Core What is the Mason Core?
How Is the Mason Core Connected to Your Major?
George Mason University’s Mason Core is designed to complement work in a student’s chosen area of study. These classes serve as a means of discovery for students, providing a foundation for learning, connecting to potential new areas of interest, and building tools for success in whatever field a student pursues. Learning outcomes are guided by the qualities every student should develop as they move toward graduating with a George Mason degree. Through a combination of courses, the Mason Core program helps students to become:
The courses taken in the Core will help develop the skills needed to achieve the learning required in all academic majors. Research has shown that most employers, regardless of the field, have high expectations that college-educated employees will come to the workplace well prepared to write and speak clearly, think critically, and solve problems creatively. For students who have not yet chosen a major, Core courses can help them decide and allow them to begin to develop the skills and habits of thinking that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Critical and Creative Scholars
For more information about all Mason Core options, courses, and credits, visit the University Catalog website at catalog.gmu.edu or the Provost Office website at masoncore.gmu.edu.
These are students who have a love of and capacity for learning. Their understanding of fundamental principles in a variety of disciplines and their mastery of quantitative and communication tools enables them to think creatively and productively. They are inquisitive, open-minded, capable, informed, and able to integrate diverse bodies of knowledge and perspectives.
Written Communication (6 credits: 3 lower/3 upper)
Self-reflective learners develop the capacity to think well. They can identify and articulate individual beliefs, strengths, and weaknesses, critically reflect on these beliefs, and integrate this understanding into their daily living.
Students develop the ability to use written communication as a means of discovering and expressing ideas and meanings; in short, they learn to employ writing as a way of thinking. Students begin this process at the fundamental English 101 level (100 for ESL students) and build higher-level skills in English 302. Writing will be emphasized in many courses throughout a student’s career, and at least one course in every student’s major is designated as “writing intensive.” Required: English 101 (or 100), 302, and an approved writing-intensive course in the major.
Ethical, Inquiry-Based Citizens
Oral Communication (3 credits)
Self-Reflective Learners
These are students who are tolerant and understanding. They can conceptualize and communicate about problems of local, national, and global significance using research and evaluative perspectives to contribute to the common good.
Thinkers and problem-solvers are able to discover and understand natural, physical, and social phenomena; articulate their application to real-world challenges; and approach problem-solving from various vantage points. They can demonstrate capability for inquiry, reason, and imagination and see connections in historical, literary, and artistic fields.
Students will learn to demonstrate understanding of and proficiency in constructing and delivering multiple message types; understand and practice effective elements of ethical verbal and nonverbal communication; develop analytical skills and critical listening skills; and understand the influence of culture in communication and know how to cope with cultural differences when presenting information to an audience. Students develop the ability to use oral communication as a way of thinking and learning, as well as sharing ideas. Required: One approved course; students will be expected to continue developing oral communication skills in additional Core courses as appropriate.
When Does the Mason Core Begin?
Information Technology (minimum 3 credits)
The Mason Core begins in a student’s first year at Mason. Academic advisors assist students in selecting the Core courses needed, making working with an advisor incredibly significant in creating the best possible Core experience. It is critical that students continue to meet with their academic advisor as they continue toward graduation.
The purpose of the information technology requirement is to ensure that students achieve an essential understanding of information technology infrastructure encompassing systems and devices; learn to make the most of the web and other network resources; protect their digital data and devices; take advantage of latest technologies; and become more sophisticated technology users and consumers.
Thinkers and Problem-Solvers
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masoncore.gmu.edu