AP.6 Graduate Policies

At the graduate level, George Mason offers certificate programs of study and master's, specialist, and doctoral degree programs. There are also a number of combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree programs for academically-strong undergraduates with a commitment to learning advanced skills in a specialized field of study.

AP.6.1 Student Classification

Students may access graduate classes and programs according to their status as non-degree or enrolled degree students. For more information, see Graduate Admissions.

AP.6.1.1 Continuous Registration Requirement

All graduate students in a master's, specialist, or doctoral degree program must register and pay any associated tuition and fees each term, including summer if required by the program, until the degree is awarded. Graduate students who register for one 7.5- or 8-week session within a term fulfill the requirement. Graduate students enrolled in 799 and 999 should refer to AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis and AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999) respectively for additional stipulations. All graduate students must have active registration status in the term of graduation. A graduate student is ultimately responsible for registering or requesting the appropriate leave prior to the start of the term.

A master's, specialist, or doctoral degree student who does not register and who has not requested and received a graduate Leave of Absence or Permission to Study Elsewhere will be notified by the University Registrar two business weeks before the first day of classes that they must register for the upcoming semester. If the student does not register, they must request permission to re-enroll in accordance with the guidelines outlined in AP.6.4.3 Permission to Re-Enroll.

AP.6.1.2 Institutional Credits

Graduate students at George Mason are required to successfully complete more than half of the minimum required credits towards their certificate or degree program at George Mason. See AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit opportunities.

AP.6.2 Full-Time and Half-Time Status Classification

Graduate students are considered full-time if they are enrolled in at least 9 graduate credits per semester or hold a full-time assistantship (total 20 hours a week) and are enrolled in at least 6 graduate credits per semester. Graduate students are considered half-time if they are enrolled in at least 4.5 graduate credits per semester.  In accordance with AP.1.3 Academic Load, the maximum number of credits a graduate degree-seeking student may take per semester is 12 while the maximum for a Non-Degree Graduate student is 11. Students must obtain permission from their local academic unit prior to registering for more than the maximum allowable credits in a semester unless enrolled in a graduate program or pathway that requires registration above the maximum. Graduate degree-seeking and Non-Degree Graduate students in programs or pathways that require registration for more than the maximum allowable credits in one or more semesters are notified of the requirement by the program or pathway during the admissions process. Graduate programs and pathways that exceed the maximum allowable credits in one or more terms are also noted in the university catalog.

Master's students who are enrolled in thesis credits are considered full-time if they are enrolled in at least three credits of 799 per semester. Master's students may enroll in 1 credit of 799 and be considered in status (either full-time or half-time) only if the student, along with their advisor and local academic unit (LAU) chair or designee, certify each semester that the student has completed 3 credits of 799 and is working full-time or half-time on the thesis. To be considered full-time or half-time while enrolled in 1 credit of 799, the student is responsible for ensuring this certification is completed and submitted to the Office of the University Registrar prior to the first day of classes each semester. See AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis for more information regarding 799.

Doctoral students, who have completed required coursework and are enrolled in dissertation credits (either 998 or 999), are considered full-time if they are enrolled in at least 3 credits per semester, regardless of whether they hold an assistantship. Doctoral students are considered in status (either full-time or half-time) if they are registered for at least 1 credit of 999 and the student, along with their advisor and LAU chair or designee, certify each semester that the student has advanced to candidacy, has completed the minimum number of credits required by the university and their degree program, including the minimum number of credits of 998 and 999, and that they are working full-time or half-time on the dissertation. To be considered full-time or half-time while enrolled in 1 credit of 999, the student is responsible for ensuring this certification is completed and submitted to the Office of the University Registrar prior to the first day of classes each semester. See AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration for more information regarding 998 and 999.

Different requirements for full-time and half-time status may apply for tuition, verification, loan deferral, and financial aid. Contact Student Accounts, the Office of the University Registrar, and Student Financial Aid, respectively, for more information. Note that the official designation of time status for all students is determined by the Office of the University Registrar.

AP.6.3 Academic Advising

When a student is admitted to graduate study, the student is assigned a faculty advisor by the academic program responsible for the student's program of study. Registration for newly admitted graduate students, as well as continuing students, begins with a visit to the student's academic advisor. There, the student can obtain information about specific courses and degree requirements and develop an individual program of study. Progress in an approved program of study is the shared responsibility of the student and the advisor. The graduate student is responsible for compliance with the policies and procedures of the college, school, or institute, and all applicable departmental requirements that govern the individual program of study. Students should consult with their advisors before registration each semester.

AP.6.4 Student Status

AP.6.4.1 Non-Degree Student Status

Students may pursue graduate study in non-degree status at George Mason. Such students who wish to pursue a degree or certificate program are encouraged to apply for program admission as soon as possible. All program admission requirements must be met.

All students must enroll in at least one credit after admission to the degree or certificate program. A maximum of 12 non-degree credits can be applied toward a degree or certificate. Graduate credits taken in non-degree status may not count towards more than two George Mason degree and/or certificate programs. See AP.6.5.3 Graduate Credit Earned at George Mason.

AP.6.4.2 Removing Provisional Qualifier

For policies concerning students admitted provisionally, see Graduate Admission Policies.

AP.6.4.3 Permission to Re-Enroll

Permission to re-enroll in a program must be obtained by master's, specialist, and doctoral degree students who have not enrolled in at least 1 credit for one or more consecutive semesters at George Mason and do not have a university approved leave of absence or permission to study elsewhere. Students in a graduate certificate program must obtain permission to re-enroll in a program after not enrolling in at least 1 credit for two or more consecutive semesters at George Mason. A program may allow a student to petition to graduate under any catalog in effect while the student was enrolled. All program components, including concentrations, must appear in the catalog for the year selected. The final decision as to catalog year rests with the unit dean or director. The Graduate Re-enrollment form is available from the Office of the University Registrar.

AP.6.4.4 Voluntary Resignation from Graduate Academic Program

Degree-seeking students may officially resign from their current academic program with the approval of their program chair or designee and the dean or director of the college/school. The Voluntary Resignation form must then be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar for transcript notation. Students who resign after the drop period may either complete the courses they are currently enrolled in or immediately withdraw, which will result in grades of W on the student's transcript for that academic term. All students that have resigned will be removed from any future registered courses. Program resignation is final in that the transcript notation shall not be removed. Students that attempt to return to an academic program must formally apply for admission. See AP.6.6.3 Subsequent Admission to Graduate Study at George Mason for further information. Students that are eligible for graduate academic termination may not resign without first obtaining approval through an academic termination policy exception request. See AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination for further information. Students who have not resigned or been terminated from their academic program must meet all applicable time limits. See AP.6 Graduate Academic Policies for further information. 

AP.6.4.4.1 Voluntary Resignation and Transfer to a Lower-Level Graduate Degree or Certificate Program

Degree-seeking status students resigning from their current academic program, before reaching their original degree time limit, may find that they can complete the requirements for a lower-level graduate program within the same college/school. Such graduate students may request to transfer into the lower gradaute degree or certificate program. The time limit for the new, lower-level program starts from the former program's admit term.

If a student has not reached the time limit for their current academic program but would exceed the time limit of the new program upon transfer, approval of the resignation and transfer is contingent upon approval of a time limit extension for the new program. A time limit extension request may only be considered for approval if the student fulfills all degree or certificate requirements for the new program prior to submission of the voluntary resignation and transfer request. 

A student that is eligible for academic termination from their current program may not voluntarily resign and transfer to a lower-level program without first proceeding through the academic termination policy exception process. See AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination for further information.

Approval from the new program's program chair or designee and the dean or director of the respective college/school is required on the appropriate form for any voluntary resignation and transfer. Programs may reject coursework that is not sufficiently current.

Degree Conferral

Students must be officially transferred through the Office of the University Registrar into the new program and have the program reflected on their academic record prior to filing an application for graduation. All applicable degree or certificate program requirements must be met to have the new degree or certificate conferred.

AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence

All graduate students actively enrolled in a degree or certificate program and who intend to become parents via birth, adoption, foster or custodial care placement are eligible to take a Parental Leave of Absence (PLoA) from their program in a prospective semester term, or prospective summer term if the summer enrollment is required by the academic program. The use of this policy does not impact the availability of a non-academic withdrawal or other protected accommodation outside of the PLoA period. Students are referred to the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community (OACC) and their College/School Dean's Office for further information.

Students needing a withdrawal of accommodation due to pregnancy during an active term are referred to OACC. Graduate students who need to take a leave due to medical or general reasons should refer to AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence or AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence, respectively. Students who need to take a leave due to U.S. military service should refer to the Military Activation Policy. Students who need to take a leave prior to their first term of enrollment, and are not Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's students covered by AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees, should refer to the deferral policy.

Scope

This policy applies to all graduate students regardless of whether the student is the birth parent or non-birth parent. Students who are eligible for graduate academic termination under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination must first obtain an approval of an academic policy exception or appeal.

Specifications

A PLoA is taken, at a minimum, one semester term at a time, or one summer term if the summer enrollment is required by the academic program. A PLoA that extends beyond one semester or summer term requires an academic policy exception from the Graduate Division.

  • A PLoA cannot be taken while in an active term or for a term that has already ended.
  • The approved PLoA term must be taken in its entirety as one event.
  • The student may schedule the approved PLoA to begin up to six months after the anticipated birth/adoption/placement of the child.
  • A PLoA can only be used once per child. Simultaneous births or placements, or any extensions beyond the initial term, are treated as one event.
  • A copy of applicable documentation will need to be presented by the student to the Graduate Division once available. Any time taken for a PLoA is counted towards the one-year limit of a GLA under AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence. (e.g., one semester of PLoA counts as one semester of GLA).

The student's time limit to degree completion, as applicable under AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates, AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees , and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees will be extended to include the length of an approved PLoA. Use of this policy may be considered in the review of any exception requests and appeals for the time limit to degree completion policy.

Student Notification Procedures

See here for information on the procedure for notifying George Mason of the intent to take a PLoA. The PLoA process is initiated by the graduate student submitting a PLoA request form prior to the start of the term for which they want to take a leave. Requests for a particular academic term will not be accepted on or after the first day of the term. A graduate student is not considered to be on an official leave unless they have received the notification from the University Registrar. The student is responsible for any required notification of entities external to George Mason, such as fellowship agencies or employer subsidy programs.

Expectations

A student may not register for any courses at George Mason, nor at any other institution, while on a PLoA. However, incomplete (IN) coursework is still expected to be submitted by approved university deadlines. Students are not required nor expected to conduct additional academic work or research towards degree requirements during the PLoA. Students shall maintain access to their George Mason email account and may, under certain circumstances, be eligible to maintain access to George Mason student health insurance. Contact Student Health Services for more information. Students on a PLoA are not registered; therefore some university services and resources may no longer be available while on leave. Students are exempt from continuous registration requirements under  AP.6.1.1 Continuous Registration Requirement, and, as applicable, AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999) or AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis during the approved PLoA period.

Return

Any student on a PLoA who does not obtain an extension or return and register by the add deadline in the term after the approved time period that a PLoA expires should refer to AP.6.4.3 Permission to Re-Enroll for guidance regarding their return. The student will have their time limit to degree continue, and all applicable continuous registration requirements stated will resume. Faculty, student applicants, and staff are encouraged to work together in order to facilitate the PLoA process and ensure students return to their same time to degree completion status as before the PLoA. Students returning from a PLoA are strongly encouraged to contact their academic program before their return.

Exception Request

The Graduate Division shall review and approve student requests for an exception to the requirements of this policy, including requests to extend such leave for one additional term, as appropriate to the student’s academic program calendar. Requests for an exception to extend a leave must be submitted prior to the start of the desired additional term for which they would otherwise return from leave. The maximum period allowed for a PLoA shall not exceed one academic year (fall, spring, and summer, if summer enrollment is required by the academic program) or four consecutive 8-week sessions (six consecutive 8-week sessions if summer enrollment is required by the academic program), as appropriate to the student’s academic program.

If an exception to any part of this policy is desired, see here for further information. Should a student’s PLoA policy exception request be denied by the Graduate Division, the student shall have one level of appeal to the Graduate Academic Appeals Committee (GAAC). See here for more information.

Other Provisions

Students receiving financial aid should consult with the Mason Student Services Center to determine any financial impact before a PLoA form is submitted. When contemplating a leave of absence, graduate students are advised to consult with the sources of their funding to determine whether a leave may involve a long-term financial loss. Per university policy, non-enrolled students, including those taking leave under this policy, may not continue to hold any existing university funded assistantships, fellowships, and/or scholarships that is dependent on student enrollment status. However, their funding may be resumed upon return at the discretion of the funding authority and in compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures. As academic programs and financial aid packages may be constructed and sequenced over a period of years, individual interruptions to the normal sequence of academic progress and scheduled employment may result in a loss of future funding and a slower time to completion of degree. Graduate assistants holding employment positions funded by George Mason are referred to the Graduate Student Hiring Rules & Procedures for further information. This policy does not address any employment, scholarships or fellowships that are funded by entities external to the university.

Students on or applying for a Change of Status to an F-1 or J-1 visa must first consult with the Office of International Programs and Services to discuss the impact of such a leave on the student’s status in the United States and any additional requirements.

AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence

A graduate student may experience life events that negatively impact the student's time and capacity to devote to their educational program. All graduate students actively enrolled in a master's, specialist, or doctoral degree program who have been registered for at least one term or equivalent for their academic program and are considered in good standing are eligible to take a General Leave of Absence (GLA) from their program in a prospective term. The use of this policy does not impact the availability of a non-academic withdrawal outside fo the GLA period.

Graduate students who need to take a leave due to becoming parents or for medical reasons should refer to AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence and AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence, respectively. Students who need to take a leave due to U.S. military service should refer to the Military Activation Policy. Students who need to take a leave prior to their first term of enrollment, and are not Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's students covered by AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees, should refer to the deferral policy.

Specifications

A GLA is taken, at a minimum, one semester term at a time, or one summer term if the summer enrollment is required by the academic program and cannot exceed a total of one year taken over teh course of a student's program. Students whose expected leave will extend beyond the maximum time should resign from their program and reapply when capable of returning to active graduate study. A GLA cannot be taken while in an active term, for a term that has already ended, or in the last term prior to a student's planned degree conferral or time-to-degree deadline. Students needing to leave during an active term should refer to AP.1.6 Withdrawal. Any time taken for a Medical Leave of Absence or Parental Leave of Absence is counted towards the one-year GLA limit.

The student's time limit to degree completion, as applicable under AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees, will be extended to include the length of an approved GLA. Use of this policy may be considered in the review of any exception requests and appeals for the time limit to degree completion policy.

Student Notification Procedures

See here for information on the procedures for notifying George Mason of the intent to take a GLA. The GLA process is initiated by the graduate student submitting a GLA request form to their program contact prior to the start of the term for which they want to take a leave. Requests for a particular academic term will not be accepted on or after the first day of the term. A graduate student is not considered to be on an official leave unless they have received the notification from the University Registrar. The student is responsible for any required notification of entities external to George Mason, such as fellowship agencies or employer subsidy programs.

Expectations

A student may not register for any courses at George Msaon, nor at any other institution, while on a GLA. However, any incomplete (IN) coursework is still expected to be submitted by approved university deadlines. Students are not required nor expected to conduct additional academic work or esearch towards degree requirements during the GLA. Students shall maintain access to their George Mason e-mail account and may, under certain circumstances, be eligible to maintain access to George Mason student health insurance. Contact Student Health Services for more information. Students on a GLA are not registered; therefore, some university services and resources may no longer be available while on leave. Students are exempt from continuous registration requirements under AP.6.1.1 Continuous Registration Requirement, and, as applicable, AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999) or AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis during the approved GLA period.

Return

Any student on a GLA who does not obtain an extension or return and register by the add deadline in the term after the approved time period that a GLA expires should refer to AP.6.4.3 Permission to Re-Enroll for guidance regarding their return. The student will have their time limit to degree continue, and all applicable continuous registration requirements stated in AP.6.1.1 Continuous Registration Requirement will resume.

Extension Request

Students wishing to extend their GLA beyond one term and who have not yet reached the one-year limit must request an extension by submitting a new formal request for a GLA prior to the start of the desired additional term for which they would otherwise return from leave.

Exception Request

The Graduate Division shall review and approve any student requestes for an exception to the requirements of this policy, including requests to extend such leave beyond a year, as appropriate to the student's academic program calendar. If an exception to this policy is desired, see here for further information. Should a student's GLA policy exception request be denied, the student shall have one level of appeal to the Graduate Academic Appeals Committee (GAAC). See here for more information.

Other Provisions

Students receiving financial aid should consult wiht the Mason Student Services Center to determine any financial impact before a GLA request form is submitted. When contemplating a leave of absence, graduate students are advised to consult with the sources of any funding to determine whether a leave may involve a long-term financial loss. Per university policy, non-enrolled students, including those on a GLA, may not continue to hold any existing university funded assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, or any employment at the university that is dependent on student status. However, their funding may be resumed at the discretion of the funding authority and in compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures. As academic programs and financial aid packages may be constructed and sequenced over a period of years, individual interruptions to the normal sequence of academic progress and scheduled employment may result in a loss of future funding and a slower time to completion of degree. Students should consult with relevant faculty, supervisors, and departments to address such issues before deciding whether to submit a GLA request form.

Students on or applying for a Change of Status to an F-1 or J-1 visa must first consult with the Office of International Programs and Services to discuss the impact of such a leave on the student's status in the United States and any additonal requirements.

AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence

A medical leave provides graduate students the time and space to prioritize their physical and mental health in order to manage a medical condition that prevents a student from remaining enrolled. All graduate students in a degree or graduate certificate program are eligible to request a Medical Leave of Absence (MLoA) from their program in a prospective semester term, or prospective summer term if the summer enrollment is required by the academic program. The use of this policy does not impact the availability of a non-academic withdrawal or other protected accommodation outside of the MLoA period. Students are referred to the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community (OACC), Office of Disability Services (ODS), and College/School Dean's Office for further information.

Graduate students who are eligible for graduate academic termination under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination must first obtain an approval of an academic policy exception or appeal. Students who need to take a leave due to becoming parents or general reasons should refer to AP.6.4.5 Parental Leave of Absence and AP.6.4.6 Graduate General Leave of Absence, respectively. Students who need to take a leave due to U.S. military service should refer to the Military Activation Policy. Students who need to take a leave prior to their first term of enrollment, and are not Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's students covered by AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees, should refer to the deferral policy.

Specifications

An MLoA is taken, at a minimum, one semester term at a time, or one summer term if the summer enrollment is required by the academic program, and cannot exceed a total of two years over the course of a student’s program. An MLoA that extends beyond an academic year requires an academic policy exception and will only be approved in exceptional circumstances; if the absence will exceed a total of two consecutive academic years, the student should resign from the program and reapply when capable of returning to active graduate study. An MLoA cannot be taken while in an active term or for a term that has already ended. Students needing to leave during an active term are referred to AP.1.6 Withdrawal. Any time taken for an MLoA is counted towards the one-year limit of a GLA under AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence (e.g., one semester of MLoA counts as one semester of GLA).

The student’s time limit to degree completion, as applicable under AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates, AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees will be extended to include the length of an approved MLoA. Use of this policy may be considered in the review of any exception requests and appeals for the time limit to degree completion policy.

Student Notification Procedures

See here for information on the procedures for completing an MLoA request. The MLoA process is initiated by the graduate student submitting a MLoA request form prior to the start of the term for which they want to take a leave. Requests for a particular academic term will not be accepted on or after the first day of the term. A graduate student is not considered to be on an official leave unless they have received the notification from the University Registrar. The student is responsible for any required notification of entities external to George Mason, such as fellowship agencies or employer subsidy programs.

Expectations

A student may not register for courses at George Mason while on an MLoA. However, incomplete (IN) coursework is still expected to be submitted by approved university deadlines. Students are not required to conduct additional academic work or research toward degree requirements during the MLoA. Students shall maintain access to their George Mason e-mail account and may, under certain circumstances, be eligible to maintain access to George Mason student health insurance. Contact Student Health Services for more information. Students on an MLoA are not registered; therefore, some university services and resources may no longer be available while on leave. Students are exempt from continuous registration under AP.6.1.1 Continuous Registration Requirement, and, as applicable, AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999) or AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis during the approved MLoA period.

Return

Any student on an MLoA who does not obtain an extension or return and register by the add deadline in the term after the approved time period that a MLoA expires should refer to AP.6.4.3 Permission to Re-Enroll for guidance regarding their return. The student will still have their time limit to degree continue, and all applicable continuous registration requirements will resume. Students returning from an MLoA are strongly encouraged to contact their academic program before their return.

Extension Request

Students wishing to extend their MLoA and who do not require an exception to do so must submit a formal request for an extension to the Graduate Division prior to the beginning of the term for which they would otherwise return from leave. A student who requires an exception to extend their MLoA should consult the process for an exception request outlined below.

Exception Request

The Graduate Division shall review and approve any student requests for an exception to the requirements of this policy, including requests to extend such leave beyond an academic year as appropriate to the student's academic program calendar. If an exception to this policy is desired, see here for further information. Should a student’s MLoA policy exception request be denied, the student shall have one level of appeal to the Graduate Academic Appeals Committee (GAAC). See here for more information.

Other Provisions

Students receiving financial aid should consult with the Mason Student Services Center to determine any financial impact before a MLoA form is submitted. When contemplating a leave of absence, graduate students are advised to consult with the sources of their funding to determine whether a leave may involve a long-term financial loss. Per university policy, non-enrolled students, including those on an MLoA, may not continue to hold any existing university funded assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, or any employment at the university that is dependent on student enrollment status. However, their funding may be resumed upon return at the discretion of the funding authority and in compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures. As academic programs and financial aid packages may be constructed and sequenced over a period of years, individual interruptions to the normal sequence of academic progress and scheduled employment may result in a loss of future funding and a slower time to completion of degree. Graduate assistants holding employment positions funded by George Mason are referred to the Graduate Student Hiring Rules & Procedures for further information. This policy does not address any employment, scholarships, or fellowships that are funded by entities external to the university.

Students on or applying for a Change of Status to an F-1 or J-1 visa must consult with the Office of International Programs and Services to discuss the impact of such a leave on the student's status in the United States and any additional requirements.

AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit

Previously earned graduate-level credit may be applied toward a George Mason graduate degree or certificate. Such credit may originate from external institutions, external examinations, or coursework completed at George Mason University prior to admission to the current program.

AP.6.5.1 Graduate Transfer Credit Earned at an External Institution

Relevant graduate course credits earned at an institution accredited by a George Mason-recognized U.S. institutional accrediting agency, international equivalent, or at another institution and recommended for graduate credit by the American Council on Education may be transferred and applied towards George Mason graduate degree or certificate programs.

This may include credits used for a previously conferred graduate degree or certificate. More than half of the required minimum credits applied to the George Mason degree must be earned at George Mason. Graduate credits earned at an external institution count towards credit hours only and are not included in the calculation of the George Mason grade point average (GPA).

Student must supply official transcripts and other information as requested, including an official transcript evaluation and translation for transcripts from outside the United States if not supplied during the admission process. The student's program is responsible for reviewing transcripts or other requested information to determine, in compliance with academic policies, whether credits are applicable to current graduate program requirements and eligible for transfer. Appeals of adverse decisions are not reviewed beyond the college or school's leadership unit and their published criteria.

Provisionally admitted students must fulfill the conditions of their admission and have the provisional qualifier removed from their records before graduate credit earned at an external institution will be processed.

The applicability of previously earned credit depends on factors including, but not limited to, source, age, grade, academic level, and alignment with program requirements. All students applying previously earned graduate credit must enroll in at least one credit after admission to the degree or certificate program. Students must meet institutional and any applicable unique credit requirements for their graduate program. Individual programs may have more restrictive policies and requirements. This policy does not supersede the requirements under University Policy 3007 Dual Degree Program Arrangements. See also AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master's Degree.

Requests to apply previously earned graduate credit to a degree or certificate program must be submitted within the following timeframes and must be approved and recorded prior to the student applying for graduation from the graduate degree or certificate program:

  • 1 semester after admission to a certificate program;
  • 1 year after admission to a master's degree program; or
  • 2 years after admission to a doctoral program.

All previously earned credit requests must be:

  • listed as a graduate-level course on the student's official transcript;
  • earned as an admitted degree or non-degree status student;
  • graded a minimum of B- or higher; and
  • earned within 10 years of admission to the George Mason degree or certificate program unless an exception is approved by the student's school or college.

Courses graded "pass/fail/ or "satisfactory/no credit" are acceptable if the grade is pass or satisfactory. Courses that follow another non-standard grading format will be evaluated by the student's program on a case-by-case basis. Extension and in-service courses not applied to a graduate degree or certificate program are not eligible.

AP.6.5.2 External Exam Credit

Degree credit for satisfactory completion of an external exam is limited to those exams and achievement levels specifically approved by the Graduate Council.

​AP.6.5.3 Graduate Credit Earned at George Mason

The applicability of previously earned graduate-level credit depends on factors including, but not limited to, source, age, grade, academic level, and alignment with program requirements. All students applying previously earned graduate credit must enroll in at least one credit after admission to the current degree or certificate program.

All previously earned credit must be:

  • listed as a graduate-level course on the student’s official transcript;
  • earned as an admitted degree-seeking or non-degree status student;
  • graded a minimum of B- or higher; and
  • earned within 10 years of admission to the George Mason degree or certificate program unless exception is approved by the student’s school or college.

Courses graded “pass/fail” or “satisfactory/no credit” are acceptable if the grade is pass or satisfactory. Courses that follow another non-standard grading format will be evaluated by the student’s program on a case-by-case basis. Extension and in-service courses not applied to a graduate degree or certificate program are not eligible.

Students must meet both institutional and applicable unique credit requirements for their graduate program. Individual programs may have more restrictive policies and requirements. This policy does not supersede requirements under University Policy 3007 Dual Degree Program Arrangements. See also AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master’s Degree.

AP.6.5.3.1 Graduate Credit Earned in Degree-Seeking Status

Graduate-level credits previously earned at George Mason in graduate degree-seeking status will be included in the calculation of the graduate cumulative GPA for subsequent George Mason graduate programs. These credits will apply to subsequent equivalent graduate program requirements and be included in the calculation of the degree GPA for a subsequent George Mason graduate program unless excluded from the degree audit program requirements by the subsequent program. If a program does not approve the application of credits, they must submit a request for exclusion of previously earned credits from the program requirements within one year of the student’s enrollment as an admitted student in the subsequent program.

AP.6.5.3.2 Graduate Credit Earned in Non-Degree-Seeking Status

Graduate credits previously earned at George Mason in non-degree-seeking status may be applied to graduate program requirements with program approval. Approved requests must be applied prior to applying for graduation from the specific graduate degree or certificate program. No more than 12 non-degree credits may count towards a George Mason degree or certificate. Applied credits are included in the calculation of the graduate cumulative and program GPA. See AP.6.4.1 Non-Degree Student Status for more information.

AP.6.5.3.3 Graduate Credit Earned in Undergraduate Status (Non-Accelerated Programs)

Graduate-level credits taken as an undergraduate student may apply towards a George Mason graduate degree or certificate program with program approval. See AP.1.5.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates. This does not apply to students enrolled in a Bachelor’s/Accelerated Master’s (BAM) Degree program (See AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees ).

No more than 12 graduate course credits may count towards both an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree or certificate program. Approved requests must be applied prior to applying for graduation from the specific graduate degree or certificate program.

AP.6.5.4 Permission to Study Elsewhere

Students enrolled in a degree program may take graduate courses at another accredited institution and apply these credits to a master's or doctoral degree with prior approval. Approval must be secured in writing from the director of the graduate program and the dean or director of the school, college, or institute, and submitted to George Mason's Office of the University Registrar before registering at the other institution. Upon completion of the course, students must arrange for an official transcript to be submitted to George Mason so that the credits may be transferred into their George Mason degree program. These credits are subject to all the other conditions given above for transfer credit, including limits on numbers of credits that can be taken elsewhere. Note that credits accepted for transfer do not compute into any George Mason GPA. Permission to take a course elsewhere does not exempt a graduate student from satisfying the degree requirements.

Enrolled, degree-seeking graduate students may be eligible to take a limited number of courses through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area. See AP.1.5.2 Permission to Study Elsewhere for more information. Credits earned through the consortium are considered resident, not transfer, credits, and are therefore not subject to transfer of credit conditions or limitations.

AP.6.6 Graduate Academic Standing

This Graduate Academic Standing policy is designed to promote academic student success and timely degree completion. It is also aligned with the requirements that graduate students must meet to graduate. George Mason law students are referred to law school academic regulations for policies regarding academic standing.

To graduate from the intended degree or certificate program, a graduate student must, at a minimum, along with any other degree requirements, present coursework that meets conferral requirements. See AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates, AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees for further information.

Students who plan to apply for financial aid should review the requirements for making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), as found on the Financial Aid website, which may differ from the requirements in this policy.

Definitions:

Good Academic Standing: Graduate students are considered in Good Academic Standing unless they are on Academic Probation or there is a notation of Academic Termination for the most recent graduate program(s) on the academic transcript.

Cumulative GPA: GPA computed for all graduate-level institutional credit including, but not limited to, any George Mason graduate degree or certificate program pursued with the primary graduate program.

Degree GPA: GPA that is calculated for graduate students based on graded graduate level courses completed at the university and applied toward the current degree or certificate program requirements. The Degree GPA is calculated at the time of graduation after all current program requirements are completed.

The graduate student is responsible for timely requesting that any eligible George Mason graduate-level coursework from a prior academic program not intended for the current program degree GPA calculation or application towards current program degree requirements is removed. See AP.6.6.4 Academic Clemency for more information.

Term GPA: GPA calculated for an individual term.

Academic Termination: Indicates that the student is separated from their primary graduate degree program as well as any George Mason graduate degree or certificate program being pursued at the time of termination and is not permitted to continue enrollment in the programs. A notification of termination is affixed to the student’s academic record. A student may be eligible to pursue graduate study at George Mason in the future, in accordance with any applicable university and College/School policies.

AP.6.6.1 Academic Probation

Graduate degree-seeking and non-degree status students shall be considered on Academic Probation if they receive a term GPA below 3.00 and/or if they receive a grade notation of NC or NA in an academic term. A graduate student shall not be on academic probation if a successful grade appeal raises the student’s affected term GPA to 3.00 or above.

When a student is placed on Academic Probation, the Office of the University Registrar (OUR) notifies the student, the appropriate College/School, and the LAU. The student’s official transcript states “Academic Probation” for the affected academic term and remains on the transcript. Once on Academic Probation, the graduate student is expected to meet with an academic advisor to create a plan for academic recovery and/or consider alternative options.

The Academic Probation notation is put on the transcript for the affected term, and students are on academic probation during the next enrolled term. The graduate student must obtain a term GPA of 3.00 or better and not earn an NA or NC grade in the probationary term. If the student receives below the minimum 3.00 term GPA for that probationary term or receives an NA or NC grade, the student will meet the criteria for academic termination under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. A graduate student shall not be placed on more than one term of Academic Probation during their graduate program. However, if a student receives a term GPA below 3.00 in the term that they have a graduation application filed, but has met all degree conferral requirements, including the minimum required 3.00 degree GPA, the student shall be permitted to graduate in that term but shall have a notation of academic probation for that term on the academic transcript. Any student that is on Academic Probation shall:

  • not be permitted to retroactively drop or withdraw from courses that have unsatisfactory final grades after the last day of the term in which the grades were earned without an exception to academic policy approved by the College/School and the Graduate Division.
  • be required to repeat any failed course at George Mason, when next offered in the student’s academic program and modality, if that course is a core degree requirement in the student’s current catalog year.

AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination

A degree-seeking (doctoral, specialist, master's, certificate) graduate student will be terminated for the reasons listed below unless an academic policy exception is obtained. Non-degree status graduate students will be terminated for unsatisfactory performance as described below.

AP.6.6.2.1 Academic Termination Criteria

Students May be Terminated for Any One of the Following Reasons

Fully-Admitted Graduate Students Enrolled in a Degree and/or Certificate program:

  • Inability to make satisfactory progress toward degree as determined by the College/School and/or Graduate Division
  • As determined through academic program benchmarks published to the graduate student by the local academic unit, College/School, and/or Graduate Division including but not limited to:
    • performance on comprehensive, qualifying exams, portfolios, or other required examinations; or
    • failure to meet published time limits; or
    • academic standard violation(s) as determined by the Academic Standards Office that results in a sanction of suspension or a grade-based sanction that triggers GPA-based eligibility for termination under this section1 or
    • a finding of misconduct as determined by the designated entity; or
    • failure to meet required professional competencies; or
    • other required academic milestones or non-course requirements.
  • Inability to attain a minimum 3.00 term GPA and/or obtaining NC or NA grade notations for two academic terms of enrollment.

Provisionally-Admitted Degree Seeking Graduate Students:

  • Any of the reasons listed for the aforementioned fully-admitted students; or
  • Inability to meet provisions of admissions within time limits; or
  • Accumulate 12 credits of failing grades in undergraduate courses.

Non-Degree Graduate Students:

  • Accumulate 12 credits of unsatisfactory grades in undergraduate courses.
  • Inability to make satisfactory progress, as determined by the College/School and/or Graduate Division.
  • As determined through published academic benchmarks published to the graduate student by the local academic unit, College/School, and/or Graduate Division including, but not limited to:
    • academic standard violation(s) as determined by the Academic Standards Office that results in a sanction of suspension or a grade-based sanction that triggers GPA-based eligibility for termination under this section1 or
    • a finding of misconduct as determined by the designated entity; or
    • failure to meet required professional competencies; or
    • other required academic milestones or non-course requirements.
  • Inability to attain a minimum 3.00 term GPA for two academic terms of enrollment or obtaining NC or NA grade notations in two academic terms of enrollment.

Note: Undergraduate and graduate course grades are not combined to reach the termination threshold; they are considered separately.

These are minimum standards of performance; some programs have higher standards. The student is responsible for knowing the Academic Probation and Academic Termination criteria for their graduate program as well as the process for initiating an academic termination exception request to their College/School. See Student Rights and Responsibilities for further information about student obligations.

Once a student has met the criteria for termination, they will be provided an opportunity to submit an academic policy exception, as described below, through a process provided for by their College/School in conjunction with the Graduate Division and shall not: 

  • be permitted to retroactively drop or withdraw from courses that have unsatisfactory final grades after the last day of the term in which the grades were earned; nor
  • resign and transfer, add, or change to another George Mason graduate program; nor
  • be eligible for a graduate leave of absence

unless approved through an academic policy exception to termination or appeal.

1

A finding of academic standard violation(s) through the Academic Standards process that results in a sanction of permanent dismissal effectively terminates the student from the academic program and requires no further action by the academic unit.

AP.6.6.2.2 Academic Termination Eligibility Notification

GPA and NA/NC Grade Notation

In cases of termination eligibility due to a term GPA below 3.00 or NA or NC grade notations in two academic terms of enrollment, the Office of University Registrar (OUR) will notify the student through George Mason electronic mail within 10 business days of termination eligibility that the student’s performance has reached the threshold for termination, provide notice of the start of the College/School’s request for exception period which shall be no longer than 10 business days, direct the student to their respective College/School for information on submitting an academic termination exception request, and inform the student that program termination will occur and be finalized by the OUR if the exception period expires and no termination exception request has been submitted to the College/School.

Time Limit

When a student has one semester or summer term remaining before their published time limit to advancement or degree deadline, the College/School shall notify the student, in writing:

  • of the approaching deadline; and
  • the start of the College/School’s time limit termination exception request period, which shall not extend past the last day of classes for the expiring time limit semester or summer term; and
  • how to obtain information regarding submission of a time limit termination exception request for an extension of time, if needed; and
  • inform the student that program termination will occur and be finalized by the College/School within six weeks of the end of the expiring time limit semester or term if:
    • the student has not had their degree and/or certificate conferred or advanced to candidacy, as applicable; and
    • no time limit termination exception request was timely made.

Other

For all other termination criteria, the College/School will be responsible for notifying the Graduate Division of its intent to terminate a student and provide documentation that published policies and procedures were followed. After review and approval, the Graduate Division will be responsible for notifying the student that the student’s performance has reached the threshold for termination, provide notice of the start of the College/School’s request for exception period, which shall be no longer than 10 business days, direct the student to information on submitting an academic termination exception request to the College/School, and inform the student that program termination will occur and be finalized by the College/School if the exception request period expires and no termination exception request has been made.

AP.6.6.2.3 Academic Termination Responsibilities

Each College/School and the Graduate Division shall publish on a publicly available webpage the process(es) for initiating graduate academic termination exception requests, which include any time limit termination exception requests, and the criteria used in review. If a College/School approves a graduate academic termination exception request, the request is forwarded to the Graduate Division for an additional review and decision.

  • If a College/School approves an initial time limit termination exception request, and the approved extension of time is no longer than a year, program termination will not occur at that time and the student’s time limit term will be revised accordingly. Subsequent time limit extension requests or any extension requests for longer than a year, when supported by the College/School, are forwarded to the Graduate Division for review and decision.

Graduate students that have submitted a request for an exception to academic termination to their College/School and had the request denied shall have one level of appeal if timely submitted. Each College/School shall publish on a publicly available web page information that directs a student to information on how to file an appeal of a denial to an academic termination exception request. The Graduate Division is responsible for publishing the criteria they and the Graduate Academic Appeals Committee (GAAC) use during their respective reviews.

During the review of any academic termination exception request or appeal, the student may continue in or begin new courses during the term of submission but may be responsible for any tuition or related charges. Continued or new enrollment in courses involving demonstration of professional competencies, including, but not limited to, externships or practicums, are at the discretion of the College/School. Students are advised to contact their academic program, the Mason Student Services Center and/or Office of International Program Services (OIPS), as applicable, to determine any impacts when choosing whether to continue with enrollment. Students are not permitted to register for subsequent terms until the student has a final approved exception request or appeal. If the student is terminated from the academic program in alignment with all applicable policies and procedures, the termination is final and they shall be immediately administratively dropped from any current and future course registration unless the student formally requests an administrative withdrawal. Students are not permitted to register for subsequent terms until the student has a final approved exception request or appeal.

If a College/School does not receive an academic exception request within their applicable exception period or the student does not timely appeal the College/School’s denial of such a request, the College/School shall ensure an academic termination notification form is sent within one week to the Office of the University Registrar (OUR) so that a notation of academic termination is affixed to the graduate student's official record and any current or future course registration is administratively dropped or withdrawn by OUR within one week. See AP.1.4 Registration Procedures for more information.

If, after a College/School’s approval, a student's academic termination exception request is denied by the Graduate Division and the appeal period has expired with no submission made, or an appeal is denied by either the Graduate Division or Graduate Academic Appeals Committee with no further appeal option, the Graduate Division shall ensure:

  • a letter of academic program termination is electronically sent to the student within one week, with a copy provided to the College/School as well as the Office of the University Registrar to put in the student’s record; and
  • an academic notification form is sent to the OUR within one week of the decision so that a notation of academic termination is affixed to the graduate student's official record and any current or future registration is administratively dropped or withdrawn within one week. See AP.1.4 Registration Procedures for more information.

If a student's academic termination exception request or appeal is ultimately granted, the student will become eligible again for academic termination if they fail to maintain satisfactory progress as described under this policy and/or once again receives a term GPA below 3.00 or a NC or NA grade notation in a term. The student will be notified by the College/School of program termination, in writing, within six weeks of time limit termination eligibility or 10 business days of GPA, NA/NC grade notation, and/or other termination eligibility, and will not be provided the option of an academic termination exception request. The College/School shall ensure:

  • the OUR is copied on the student’s notification so that it can be added to the student’s record; and
  • an academic notification form is sent to the OUR when the student notification is sent so that a notation of academic termination is affixed to the graduate student's official record and any current or future registration is administratively dropped or withdrawn within one week. See AP.1.3 Academic Load for more information.

Students who receive an academic termination notation may apply for formal admission to a different George Mason graduate program under certain conditions. See AP.6.6.3 Subsequent Admission to Graduate Study at George Mason for further information.

AP.6.6.3 Readmission to Graduate Study at George Mason

Former graduate students who have been terminated, dismissed or have resigned from a George Mason graduate program are not permitted to take any additional coursework at George Mason unless a new graduate program application has been submitted and the applicant has been admitted to graduate study. Time limits for the degree begin with the date of admission to the new program. Any previously earned eligible credit applied to a subsequent graduate program must have been earned within ten years prior to the term of admission in the new graduate program. Otherwise, an exception to academic policy must first be approved by the College/School. See AP.6.5.3 Graduate Credit Earned at George Mason for further information.

The following restrictions apply:

  • A student who was terminated from a graduate program or dismissed from George Mason while in a graduate program shall not be admitted to that same program for a minimum of two calendar years after the end of the academic term of termination or dismissal.
  • Any student who resigns from a graduate program while on academic probation shall be on academic probation (AP.6.6.1 Academic Probation) for one enrolled term if admitted to the same graduate program within two calendar years of the end of the resignation term.
  • Any failing or unsatisfactory grades that were accumulated in a previous George Mason graduate program term that is within two calendar years of a subsequent graduate program admission term and were for courses that fulfill the new program’s core requirements, shall not be excluded and will apply towards the new program’s degree GPA and academic standing as described in AP.6.6 Graduate Academic Standing. Accordingly, prospective applicants and academic programs should carefully consider whether admission, given such circumstances, is appropriate.

Upon full admission to any graduate program at George Mason, after two calendar years from the end of the previous termination, dismissal, or resignation term, a graduate student may petition the Graduate College/School Dean or designee to grant academic clemency for up to six credits. See AP.6.6.4 Academic Clemency for more information.

Colleges/schools and local academic units may have additional restrictions concerning admission to a subsequent graduate program at George Mason. If so, those restrictions apply.

AP.6.6.4 Academic Clemency

Graduate students enrolling in a George Mason graduate program after a separation of a minimum of two calendar years may petition the Graduate College/School Dean or designee to have up to six previous graduate degree credits earned at George Mason removed from the new degree program academic record and degree GPA calculation. Courses and grades so removed will not count toward degree requirements. Note that the courses, with their original grades, and the notation “Academic Clemency,” will remain listed on the student’s transcript permanently. The petition for clemency must be filed within 12 months starting from the first day of enrollment in the new graduate program at George Mason. Approval of the request is neither automatic nor guaranteed.

AP.6.7 Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Degrees

George Mason offers combined bachelor's and accelerated master's degree programs for academically strong undergraduate students committed to advancing their education in a specialized field of study. Accepted students may obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree after satisfactory completion of at least 138 credits (total number may vary based on requirements of both the undergraduate and graduate programs).

Once matriculated into the master’s program, students are assessed graduate tuition and are subject to all graduate academic policies as detailed in the University Catalog. Students receiving, or planning on receiving, financial aid in their undergraduate or intended accelerated master's degree program should consult with the Office of Financial Aid to determine any financial impact prior to application.

Accelerated pathways totaling less than 150 credits must cover all competencies in both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. In cases where pathways allow for the substitution of undergraduate elective credits by graduate-level elective credits, the graduate-level elective credits must align with the requirements of the graduate program while maintaining the breadth of knowledge imparted by the undergraduate degree program.

See AP.1.5.4 Graduate Course Enrollment by Undergraduates for undergraduate students who want to enroll in graduate courses and are not in an accelerated pathway. Each pathway must offer a curated list of courses in the University Catalog that are consistent with the requirements of this policy and maintain the integrity of both the undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Completion of the accelerated master's degree requires that all university requirements for the master's degree are met, including the institutional credit requirement, the unique credit requirement, and graduate time limit to degree requirement.

AP.6.7.1 Application and Admission

Application to the accelerated master's degree program pathway should be made once the student has earned at least 60 credits. The graduate application fee is waived. Acceptance into the degree pathway program is competitive and must be approved by the designated administrator(s) or equivalent within both the student's undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

AP.6.7.2 Coursework Requirements

After acceptance and successful completion of 75 undergraduate credits, accelerated master's students shall complete a minimum of 3 to a maximum of 12 credits of approved advanced standing graduate courses in their field of study. Approved advanced standing credits apply to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Advanced standing credits apply to the undergraduate degree as graded credits and count towards the undergraduate cumulative GPA. Advanced standing credits apply to the master's degree as credit hours only and are not included in the graduate GPA. All required graduate course prerequisites must be completed prior to enrollment in the advanced standing course.

Moreover, accelerated master's pathway students may earn up to 6 additional reserve credits of graduate coursework while still in undergraduate status. Eligible reserve credits apply to the master's degree program as graded credits and count towards the graduate cumulative and program GPA, but do not apply to the undergraduate degree program. Students must earn a minimum grade of B- in each approved graduate course, although programs and/or colleges or schools may require a higher minimum to proceed in the accelerated degree pathway. Any grade that does not meet the minimum grade in an approved advanced standing or reserve graduate course will not apply towards the intended graduate degree. It will only display on the undergraduate degree transcript and will count toward the undergraduate GPA.

Accelerated master's pathway students who do not attain a final 3.00 cumulative GPA in their undergraduate degree may have their admission to the master's program revoked at the discretion of the college or school. Accelerated master's pathway students who do not successfully transfer into the master's program may file a new admissions application to a master’s program and, after admission and enrollment, eligible credits for any graduate coursework previously taken as an undergraduate student may be applied towards the new master's program with permission of the program and in alignment with applicable policies and procedures.

No more than 12 graduate credits may count towards both an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree or certificate. See AP.6.5.3 Graduate Credit Earned at George Mason for further information.

AP.6.7.3 Timeline Requirements

Accelerated master's pathway students must apply to graduate and have their undergraduate degree conferred in the semester during which their final undergraduate degree requirements are fulfilled. Advanced standing and reserve graduate credit courses must be completed by the term of undergraduate graduation specified on their transition form for the accelerated degree program. Students must submit their transition form to their undergraduate program by the last day to add classes of their final undergraduate semester. Transition forms must be timely approved and submitted by the school or college.

Students are expected to enroll in the related master's program in the academic term immediately following undergraduate degree conferral. Students who do not enroll in that term may request a 1-semester deferral of admission, subject to the constraints of their master’s program and timely filing of an updated transition form. Such deferrals must be approved by the graduate program director. Students must also adhere to all timelines specified in AP.6.5.3 Graduate Credit Earned at George Mason and AP.6.9.2 Time Limit.

Students who do not adhere to the timeline requirements outlined above may lose eligibility for admission to the master’s program through the accelerated degree program pathway. In such cases, students may submit a new application for general admission to the master’s program. Following admission and enrollment, students may request to apply any graduate coursework completed as an undergraduate to the new graduate program.

AP.6.7.4 Instructions for International Students

F-1 and J-1 students must request a change of program level and an I-20/DS-2019 extension at the time they move from the undergraduate to graduate level of study. Funding for the additional time in F-1 or J-1 status also must be documented as required by federal immigration regulations.

AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates

Candidates must satisfy all applicable university requirements and all requirements established by the graduate certificate program faculty. Individual departmental graduate certificate requirements are listed under their academic departments in this catalog. Note that the following are university minimum requirements; individual programs may have higher standards and/or more restrictive requirements.

  • Admission. Program acceptance is subject to all applicable admissions requirements.
  • Credit Hours. Graduate certificate programs require a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 24 graduate credits.
  • Credit Level. Only graduate-level courses, including previously earned credits, may apply toward the graduate certificate.
  • Institutional Credit. More than half of the minimum required credits applied to the certificate must be earned at George Mason. In the case of a certificate offered through consortia arrangement, at least one-third of the credits applied to the certificate must be earned at George Mason.
  • Quality. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.00 in coursework presented on the certificate application for graduation. The GPA calculation excludes previously earned credits from an external institution. See AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit.
  • Unique Credit. Certificate students who satisfy the degree requirements of more than one certificate at George Mason may apply coursework from multiple certificates towards a George Mason master's or doctoral degree program. No credits can be applied to more than two certificates and/or degrees. The graduation application for any graduate certificate must include a minimum of 12 credits that apply only to that certificate and not to another certificate.

AP.6.8.1 Students in Master's, Specialist, or Doctoral Programs also Pursuing Graduate Certificates (Secondary Certificate)

Admission

Students must be admitted to the master's or doctoral program and enrolled in active degree-seeking status. All master's, specialist, and doctoral requirements apply. In order for both the degree program and graduate certificate to be conferred at the same time, students must be admitted to the graduate certificate program via an approved Secondary Certificate form prior to applying for graduation. The secondary graduate certificate may be conferred prior to the conferral of the master's, specialist, or doctoral degree.

Time Limits

The time limit for certificate conferral coincides with the six-year time limit for master's and specialist degrees or the six-year time limit for advancement to candidacy in a doctoral degree. Applicable master's, specialist, and doctoral degree time limit rules still apply.

Multiple Programs

Students not already enrolled in an embedded master's, second degree or certificate program may be enrolled in one graduate certificate program at a time while they pursue a master's, specialist, or doctoral degree. Students may share coursework between their primary degree program (master's, specialist, or doctorate) and secondary graduate certificate. However, unique credit requirements for the master's, specialist, and doctoral degrees apply. See AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees for further information. No credits can be applied to more than two George Mason certificates and/or degrees.

AP.6.8.2 Students in Graduate Certificate Programs Only

Admission

Students pursuing graduate certificate programs must be admitted to George Mason through the formal admissions process. Failure to make satisfactory progress (as determined by the academic unit and/or Associate Provost for Graduate Education) toward certificate requirements may result in termination from the certificate program.

Certificate students who earn one or more certificates at George Mason may apply coursework from multiple certificates toward a George Mason master's, specialist, or doctoral degree program, if admitted through the formal admissions process. All master's, specialist, and doctoral requirements apply, including unique credit requirements. See AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees, AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees. No credits can be applied to more than two George Mason certificates and/or degrees. Program acceptance is subject to all applicable admissions requirements.

Time Limits

Certificate program students, both full-time and part-time, have six (6) calendar years, from their admit term, to complete their program. Individual certificate programs may have stricter time limits, which are published in this catalog. Time limit calculation is based on the student's admit term plus the applicable number of years. Students are responsible for knowing their time limits. See detailed information regarding how to determine time limits. Absences from George Mason do not affect the time limit established by the student's admit term unless an official parental or medical leave of absence is recorded. See AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence and AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence for more information.

Students who will not meet published time limits because of compelling circumstances beyond their control may request an exception to this policy by petitioning their dean or director for a single extension up to one calendar year prior to the expiration of their time limit. Failure to meet the time limit or to secure approval of an exception to this policy through the process described in AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination shall be considered a failure to make satisfactory academic progress and result in termination from the program under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. AP.6.8.2 Students in Graduate Certificate Programs Only does not supersede a student’s university-approved disability services accommodations plan.

International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services for information. Non-immigrant students in F-1 or J-1 status are further limited by the regulations governing their stay in the United States. The University issues visa documents (forms I-20 and DS-2019) that the estimated length of the student's academic program. Students who need extensions beyond the period of stay must request them through the Office of International Programs and Services at least 30 days before the end date of their F or J Certifying Document (forms I-20 or DS-2019) issued by George Mason University. Documentation of the compelling circumstances necessitating the extension request is required by federal regulations. For further information, please consult with an advisor in OIPS.

Multiple Graduate Certificate Programs

Students not admitted to any graduate degree program (master's, specialist, or doctoral) may be admitted to two graduate certificate programs at the same time. Or, students may enroll in multiple certificates consecutively. The graduation application for any graduate certificate must include a minimum of 12 credits that apply only to that certificate and not to another certificate.

AP.6.8.3 Financial Aid for Students in Certificate Programs Only

Not all certificate programs are eligible for Federal financial aid.  A list of the eligible graduate certificates can be found in Financial Aid.

AP.6.8.4 Certificate to Master's Bridge Program

Overview

The university offers Certificate to Master's bridge programs for individuals with baccalaureate degrees who need additional preparation to successfully matriculate into a master's program. Admitted students may obtain both a graduate certificate and master's degree after satisfactory completion of certificate program and master's degree requirements.

AP.6.8.4.1 Application and Admission

Application to a bridge program must be made in accordance with all specific graduate certificate program admission timelines, requirements, and procedures. Applicants must meet all general university graduate admission eligibility requirements including having earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in baccalaureate study. Individual academic programs may have additional graduate certificate to master's program admission requirements. Please refer to George Mason Graduate Admissions to determine if an English Proficiency examination is required.

Students who are invited to join a Certificate to Master's bridge program will initially be admitted to the respective Certificate program. Upon conferral of the certificate and achievement of the bridge program standards, the student will then be admitted to the Master's degree program of their respective bridge program for the following academic semester. The application form and fee for the Master's degree program is waived. Students currently enrolled in a Master's program at George Mason are ineligible for a bridge program and should consult AP.6.8.1 Students in Master's, Specialist, or Doctoral Programs also Pursuing Graduate Certificates (Secondary Certificate)for guidance.

AP.6.8.4.2 Coursework Requirements for Certificate and Master's Components

Bridge program students shall fulfill all program requirements and comply with university policies and procedures in completing the certificate and Master's degree programs. Students must meet all curricular requirements for each component of the bridge program as outlined in AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates and AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees. Individual programs may have stricter requirements, and students may be required to retake courses in Master's status.

Students may only enroll in one bridge program at a time; however, students may enroll in one additional certificate program while pursuing the certificate component of their bridge program. Credit restriction and curricular requirements outlined in AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates still apply. Students enrolled in the Master's component of their bridge program who wish to enroll in a certificate program should consult AP.6.8.1 Students in Master's, Specialist, or Doctoral Programs also Pursuing Graduate Certificates (Secondary Certificate) for guidance.

AP.6.8.4.3 Timeline Requirements

Bridge program students must apply to graduate and have their certificate conferred in the semester during which their final certificate requirements are fulfilled in accordance with all deadlines. Any certificate courses that the student plans to apply towards the Master's component must be completed by the semester or term of graduation specified on their transition form for the bridge program, be graded B- or better, and be aligned with the respective Master's degree program requirements. Students in bridge programs must submit their transition form to their graduate academic affairs office by the deadline to apply to graduate from their certificate program. Students must enroll in the related Master's program in the academic semester or summer session that immediately follows the term of certificate program conferral. Changes to the progression timeline must be approved by the graduate program director. Students must also adhere to all timelines specified in AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit, AP.6.8.2 Students in Graduate Certificate Programs Only, and AP.6.9.2 Time Limit. International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services for information.

Once matriculated into the Master's program, all students must continue to adhere to all applicable graduate academic policies as detailed in the University Catalog.

Certificate Conferral

Students who successfully complete all program requirements within university time limits will have their certificate conferred for the semester in which they have met all certificate requirements and after completing their application for graduation. International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services for information.

Master's Conferral

Students who have successfully completed all degree requirements within the university time limits will have their Master's conferred after completing their application for graduate. International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services for information.

AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees

Candidates must satisfy all applicable university degree requirements and all requirements established by the master's program faculty. Individual departmental degree requirements are listed under the respective master's programs in this catalog. Programs may impose more stringent requirements.

  • Admission. Candidates must have been officially admitted into degree status.
  • Credit Hours. Candidates must earn a minimum of 30 graduate credits. Previously earned coursework may be applied towards this. See AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit.
  • Credit Level. Only graduate-level courses may apply toward the degree.
  • Institutional Credit. More than half of the required minimum credits applied to the degree must be earned at George Mason. Or, in the case of programs offered through joint, cooperative, or consortium arrangements, at the participating institutions, at least one-third of the credits applied to the master's degree must be earned at George Mason.
  • Thesis/Project Limits. A maximum of 6 credits of master's thesis research or master's project may be applied to the degree.
  • Quality. Candidates must have a minimum degree GPA of 3.00 in coursework when submitting an application for graduation.
  • Unique Credit. At least 6 credits of the master’s degree program must be applied only to that degree, meaning they cannot be used to fulfill the requirements of another degree or certificate program. This requirement does not apply to doctoral students also pursuing an embedded master’s degree under AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master's Degree.

AP.6.9.1 Thesis Options

Requirements regarding a thesis vary with the degree program. A number of master's programs offer both thesis and non-thesis options. The same quality of work is expected of students regardless of their chosen option. For more information, consult the section on degree requirements under each degree program.

AP.6.9.2 Time Limit

Master's degree students, both full-time and part-time, have six (6) calendar years, from their admit term for the program, to complete their degrees. Individual master's programs may have stricter time limits, which are published in this catalog. Time limit calculation is based on the student's admit term plus the applicable number of years.  Students are responsible for knowing their time limits.  See detailed information regarding how to determine the initial deadline. Absences from George Mason do not affect the time limit established by the student's admit term.

Students who will not meet published time limits because of compelling circumstances beyond their control may request an exception to this policy by petitioning their dean or director for a single extension of up to one calendar year prior to the expiration of their time limit. Students seeking an extension due to a permitted leave of absence are referred to AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence, AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence, and AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence. Failure to meet the applicable time limits or to secure approval of an exception to this policy through the process described in AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination shall be considered a failure to make satisfactory academic progress and result in termination from the program under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. AP.6.9.2 Time Limit does not supersede a student’s university-approved disability services accommodations plan.

International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status also have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) for information. Non-immigrant students in F-1 or J-1 status are further limited by the regulations governing their stay in the United States. The University issues visa documents (forms I-20 and DS-2019) that indicate the estimated length of the student's academic program. Students who need extensions beyond the initial period of stay must request them through the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) at least 30 days before the end date of their F or J Certifying Document (forms I-20 or DS-2019) issued by George Mason University. Documentation of the compelling circumstances necessitating the extension request is required by federal regulations. For further information, please consult with an advisor in OIPS.

AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis

Students must register for a minimum of 3 credit hours in their first term of their Master's thesis research course and maintain continuous enrollment, excluding summer, each term until the thesis is complete and has been successfully submitted to the library, with the exception of terms in which a student is on a Graduate Leave of Absence. Master's students enrolled for 1 credit of a Master's thesis research course may be considered in status (either full-time or half-time) if the following requirement is met: the student, advisor, and program director/chair must certify each semester that the student has completed 3 credits of Master's thesis work and is working full-time or half-time on the thesis using the process provided by the Office of the University Registrar prior to the first day of classes for the term. See AP.6.2 Full-time and Half-time Status Classification for more information.

Students who plan to complete their thesis in the summer must register for at least 1 credit of the Master's thesis course in that in term. Graduation candidates who miss the library deadline for thesis submission but do submit successfully before the next term begins do not have to register for the Master's thesis course in the next term. Such students must apply for graduation in order to have their degree conferred. 

Students completing a Master's Thesis should obtain a copy of George Mason's Thesis, Dissertation, or Project Guide.

For further information on grading notations in Master's thesis courses, academic standing, and impact on program requirements, see AP.3.2.1 Graduate Grading Scales, AP.3.3 Additional Undergraduate and Graduate Grade Notations, and AP.6.6 Graduate Academic Standing.

Committee Size and Composition

The Master's Thesis Committee provides guidance and oversight of the student's thesis research, writing, and defense. The Thesis Committee Chair is primarily responsible for directing the student's research and writing activities. The Thesis Committee is composed of at least 3 faculty, at least 1 of whom must be from the student's department or program, who hold Graduate Faculty Status (see AP.6.13) and possess expertise relevant to the student's field of study. The Thesis Committee Chair must also have a full-time appointment. Faculty who do not hold Graduate Faculty Status may serve as additional members, beyond the 3, provided they are Affiliate Faculty (See Faculty Handbook 2.1.7) and hold expertise relevant to the student's field of study. The student is responsible for keeping all committee members informed of the scope, plan, and progress of the research as well as the writing of the thesis.

The Committee formation process requires the approval of the student, all committee members, and the department chair or program director and must be completed before the student registers for the Master's thesis research course. A committee is considered established only after all individuals have accepted their appointments through the approval process required by the student's degree program.

Faculty members at George Mason University with a full-time appointment may serve as Thesis Committee Chair as long as they hold Graduate Faculty Status and possess expertise relevant to the student's field of study. The Thesis Committee Chair is primarily responsible for directing the candidate's research and writing activities. The student is responsible for keeping all committee members informed of the scope, plan, and progress of the research as well as the writing of the thesis.

It is expected that all individuals serving on a student's thesis committee will be available, to the extent possible, throughout the student's thesis work until completion, including the summer term if a student is expected to graduate during that term.

AP.6.9.4 Thesis Submission, Project, and Embargo

Master's students may be required to complete a thesis. All theses must be successfully submitted to University Dissertation and Thesis Services (UDTS) for upload to ProQuest and the Mason Archival Repository Service (MARS). A Master's student who completes a Project may be required by their degree program to submit it to MARS.

UDTS facilitates completion of requirements and submission of dissertations and theses. All thesis submission procedures related to degree conferral in each semester and consistent with policy are defined by UDTS. This encompasses all stated deadlines including, but not limited to, any for the required format review and final submission. For further information, consult the UDTS website.

Once a student has successfully submitted the final version of their thesis in accordance with UDTS requirements, subsequent edits will not be allowed except under the following circumstances:

  • A formatting error has been introduced into the document when converting from one document type to another during the UDTS submission process that substantively affects the meaning of the thesis. For example, if equations or special symbols or tables have been deleted or reconfigured in a way that the meaning has been substantively lost or altered, then those corrections alone are permitted.
  • Academic Standards violations are detected. The relevant college/school must conduct a review of the thesis and determine an appropriate course of action in accordance with the university catalog and approved by the Dean or designee of the college/school. The UTDS Coordinator must be informed in writing by the Dean or designee of the college/school of the approved course of action.

Under circumstances determined by the student's college/school, and/or program, a student may, in accordance with University Dissertation and Thesis Services (UDTS) procedures, submit a signed petition to embargo, i.e. delay, all or part of their thesis, preventing online and on-campus access to it for a period of time (2 years, 5 years, or 10 years). All petitions are subject to the policies of the student's college/school and/or program, and some may not permit a student to embargo their work. Both the student's thesis chair (or program designee) and the graduate associate dean of the college/school must approve the student's petition in writing in accordance with UDTS procedures. Each program and college/school shall publish on their respective university website whether they permit a student to embargo their work and, if so, the criteria used in their respective reviews. Initial embargo request decisions are not reviewed beyond the college/school's leadership unit.

All embargo petitions will be retained by UDTS. The student, as well as the college/school's associate dean, will be provided written confirmation of the new thesis release date by UDTS. Once the embargo period has passed, the thesis will be made available for online and on-campus access.

If the student wishes to extend the embargo past the thesis's initial release date, the student is required to secure the approval of the graduate associate dean of the student’s college/school and the Graduate Division in the Office of the Provost at the time of the extension request. The student must submit a signed renewal request, in accordance with UDTS procedures that may include a stated deadline. Students can request a renewal period of 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years. Each college/school and the Graduate Division shall publish on their respective university website the process for initiating an embargo extension request and the criteria used in their respective reviews. UDTS will retain a copy of the student petition and confirm to the student and graduate associate dean the decision and any applicable new thesis release date. Renewal embargo request decisions are not reviewed beyond the Graduate Division.

Authors who wish to lift an embargo prior to the established termination date must notify the UDTS Coordinator. In the case of an author's death, incapacity, or other similar circumstance, the author's estate, power of attorney, or other appropriate designee assumes decision-making authority over the embargo.

AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master's Degree

This policy is for doctoral or specialist students who subsequently also pursue a master's degree program in the same college/school that has course requirements fully embedded in their doctoral or specialist degree program. Except as otherwise described in this policy, requirements for master's degrees in AP.6.9 Requirements for Master's Degrees apply to the embedded master's degree.

Admission and Degree Conferral

Students formally admitted and enrolled in a doctoral or specialist program may add one master's degree program as an embedded program of study if:

  • the master's degree program is within the same college/school;
  • the credits for the master's degree completely embed within the doctoral or specialist degree;
  • the student will not, upon admission, exceed the embedded master's program degree time limit as described below (students that would exceed the time limit must first obtain approval of a time limit extension request via the appropriate form); and
  • the respective program director or coordinator of each program gives approval.

The institutional credits requirement derives from the doctoral or specialist degree requirements, as applicable. Students must first be admitted to the doctoral program or specialist program and enrolled in active degree-seeking status. All applicable AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees or AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees requirements apply. Students must be admitted to the embedded master's program via the applicable form prior to applying for graduation from the embedded master's degree and/or primary degree (doctoral or specialist).

The embedded master's may be conferred based upon the student's graduation application, upon completion, prior to, or with the conferral of the doctoral degree. An embedded master's must be conferred upon completion and prior to the conferral of the specialist degree, based upon the student's graduation application. A graduate program may impose more stringent limitations.

Time Limits

The time limit for the embedded master's degree derives from the applicable doctoral or specialist program admit term and coincides with the six-year time limit for specialist degrees or the six-year time limit for advancement to candidacy in a doctoral degree. Doctoral and specialist degree time limit rules still apply for those programs. Programs may reject coursework that is not sufficiently current.

Multiple Programs

Students may share coursework between their primary (doctorate or specialist) and embedded master's program. The embedded master's does not have a unique credit requirement. However, unique credit requirements for the specialist and doctoral degree apply. See AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees for further information. No credits can be applied to more than two certificates and/or degrees. A college/school may impose more stringent limitations on credit sharing limits. Doctoral students completing an embedded master's degree must indicate on their program of study which courses apply to the doctoral degree. See AP.6.10.3 Program of Study for more information.

If a student wishes to pursue additional programs beyond those in this program arrangement, those additional programs must stand alone for the purpose of calculating credits. For purposes of administration, if a different rate of tuition is assessed for each program, the student will be assessed at the rate for the primary degree program (doctorate or specialist, as applicable). 

AP.6.9.6 Individualized Dual Master's Degree Programs

George Mason graduate students have the option to pursue two master's degrees simultaneously. Graduate students who wish to pursue two degrees and/or certificate programs outside of a dual master's arrangement as stated herein are referred to University Policy 3007: Dual Degree Program Arrangements, AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates, AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master's Degree, and AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees.

For purposes of administration, if a different rate of tuition is assessed for each program, the student will be assessed at the higher rate. The program with the higher rate will be considered the primary program. The 6-year time limit for completion of each program component of the dual master's programs derives from the admission date for that program component. Students will have a cumulative GPA while pursuing both programs. A degree for each program component shall be conferred upon completion based upon student application for graduation and students shall have a degree GPA for each program component. See AP.6.6 Graduate Academic Standing for more information.

Previous George Mason credits that were subsequently applied towards the initial program in this arrangement will be removed from the student's record upon matriculation into the second program.

Students are not eligible to pursue two master's degrees until they have completed one semester in their initial master's program. Additional requirements:

  • Admission. A full admissions application must be submitted for both programs. Students must apply and be accepted to the second master's degree within one year of matriculation in the initial program. The application must include a written statement explaining the intellectual or pedagogical purpose behind the degree program, and the academic symmetries that exist between the underlying fields of study.
  • Shared Credit. An Individualized Dual Master's Degree Program of Study form, approved by directors of both programs, must be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar upon matriculation in the second program. This will determine the maximum number of credits and specific courses that may be shared across programs. Credits that are shared between programs may need an approved Substitution/Waiver form signed by the appropriate college or school's leadership unit.
  • Unique Credit. A restricted number of credits may be shared across certain dual degree programs. See University Policy 3007: Dual Degree Program Arrangements to determine the maximum number of credits that may be shared across master's degree programs. Credit may be shared across two George Mason programs only. See University Policy 3007: Dual Degree Program Arrangements for more information on credit-sharing limitations.

AP.6.10 Requirements for Doctoral Degrees

Candidates must satisfy all applicable university degree requirements and all requirements established by the doctoral program faculty. Programs may impose more stringent requirements. Departmental degree requirements are listed under the respective doctoral programs in this catalog.

  • Admission. Students must have been fully admitted into degree status.
  • Credit Hours. Candidates must earn a minimum of 72 graduate credits. Previously earned coursework may be applied towards this. See AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit.
  • Credit Level. Only graduate-level courses may apply towards the degree.
  • Institutional Credit. More than half of the required minimum credits for the doctoral degree must be earned at George Mason. Or, in the case of programs offered through joint, cooperative, or consortium arrangements, at the participating institutions, at least one-third of the credits applied to the doctoral degree must be earned at George Mason.
  • Quality. Candidates must have a minimum degree GPA of 3.00 in coursework presented on the degree application.
  • Unique Credit. At least 24 credits of the doctoral degree program must be applied only to that degree, meaning they cannot be used to fulfill the requirements of another degree or certificate program.
  • Advancement to Candidacy. Candidates must meet the written and/or oral doctoral candidacy requirements set by the candidate's degree program.
  • Dissertation. Candidates must complete a minimum of 12 credits of doctoral proposal (998) and doctoral dissertation research (999), including at least three credits of 999. A maximum of 24 credits of 998 and 999 may be applied to the degree.
  • Defense. Candidates must pass a final public defense of the doctoral dissertation.

AP.6.10.1 Time Limit

For both full-time and part-time students enrolled in doctoral programs, whether entry is post-baccalaureate or post-master's, the total time to complete their degree will not exceed nine (9) calendar years from the student's admit term for the program. Individual doctoral programs may have stricter time limits, which are published in this catalog. Doctoral students are expected to progress steadily toward their degree and must advance to candidacy within six (6) calendar years, although colleges and schools may set a shorter time limit. Time limit calculation is based on the semester or summer admit term plus the applicable number of years. Students are responsible for knowing their time limits. See detailed information regarding how to determine all initial deadlines. Absences from George Mason do not affect the time limit established by the admit term.

Students who will not meet the published time limits because of compelling circumstances beyond their control may request an exception to this policy by petitioning their dean or director for a single extension of up to one calendar year prior to the expiration of the applicable time limit. Students seeking an extension due to a permitted leave of absence are referred to AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence, AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence, and AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence. Any extension of the time limit to advance to candidacy that is granted does not automatically alter the total time limit for degree completion. Failure to meet the applicable time limits or to secure approval of an exception to this policy through the process described in AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination shall be considered a failure to make satisfactory academic progress and result in termination from the program under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. See detailed information regarding how to determine the initial deadline. AP.6.10.1 Time Limit does not supersede a student's university-approved disability services accommodations plan.

International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status also have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) for information. Non-immigrant students in F-1 or J-1 status are further limited by the regulations governing their stay in the United States. The University issues visa documents (forms I-20 and DS-2019) that indicate the estimated length of the student's academic program. Students who need extensions beyond the initial period of stay must request them through the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) at least 30 days before the end date of their F or J Certifying Document (forms I-20 or DS-2019) issued by George Mason University. Documentation of the compelling circumstances necessitating the extension request is required by federal regulations. For further information, please consult with an advisor in OIPS.

AP.6.10.2 Doctoral Research Skill Requirements

Some doctoral degree programs require demonstration of proficiency in a research skill, including knowledge of the research literature in a foreign language, computer language, statistical methods, or a research tool specific to the discipline. Research skill requirements are included with the degree requirements for the specific doctoral degree. Where demonstration of research skills is required, certification that this requirement has been met must be completed for advancement to candidacy.

AP.6.10.3 Program of Study

Usually before the end of the second year of graduate study but no later than consideration for advancement to candidacy, doctoral students must submit a program of study for approval by the dean or director of the college, school, or institute. The program of study must include major courses and supporting courses to be completed, research skills required, subject areas to be covered by the candidacy exam, and a proposed date for the candidacy exam. Program of Study Forms are available from each program's doctoral coordinator. Any changes in the programs of study must be documented with an amended Program of Study Form.

AP.6.10.4 Advancement to Candidacy

Advancement to candidacy implies that a doctoral student has demonstrated both a breadth and a depth of knowledge in the field of study and is capable of exploring problems on the boundaries of knowledge, and has identified a research area that is likely to lead to a successful dissertation. Advancement to candidacy requires successful completion of a written and/or oral requirement as set by the candidate's degree program. Doctoral students should consult the degree requirements for each doctoral program to determine whether an oral portion is required, whether it is judged separately or with the written portion, the number of times a failed candidacy exam may be repeated and any associated time limits, and any time limits for attempting the candidacy exam.

Before doctoral students may be advanced to candidacy by the unit dean or director, they must have completed all coursework as indicated on the approved program of study, been certified in all doctoral research skills required, passed the candidacy exam, and been recommended by the doctoral supervisory committee or program coordinator. Students advanced to candidacy after the add period for a given semester must wait until the following semester to register for 999 Dissertation Research.

AP.6.10.5 Dissertation Committee

The Dissertation Committee provides guidance and oversight of the student's dissertation research, writing, and defense. This committee may also function as the program committee, facilitating the design and approval of the student’s program of study, conducting required examinations, and/or regularly assessing the student's progress and accomplishments. It is encouraged for at least 1 member to come from outside the program faculty.

Committee selections are initiated by the student after consultation with their proposed Dissertation Committee Chair. The committee formation process requires approval of the student, all committee members, and the department chair or program director. A committee is considered established only after all individuals have accepted their appointments through the approval process required by the student’s degree program.

It is expected that all individuals serving on a student's committee will be available, to the extent possible, throughout the student's dissertation progress until completion, including the summer term if a student is expected to graduate during that term. Individuals who become unable to serve in their roles must notify the Dissertation Committee Chair, the student, other committee members, and the relevant program director as soon as possible.

Committee Size and Composition

Committee Size: Doctoral candidates must have a Dissertation Committee made up of a Chair (Member #1) and at least 2 other members (Member #2, Member #3). Graduate Faculty Status is required at the time of committee formation for any position requiring Graduate Faculty Status (see AP.6.13 Graduate Faculty Status).

Committee Chairs: Faculty members at George Mason University may serve as Dissertation Committee Chairs (Member #1) as long as they hold Graduate Faculty Status, have a full-time appointment in the student’s department or program, and possess expertise relevant to the student’s field of study.

If a Dissertation Committee Chair leaves the university, retires, or becomes otherwise unavailable during the student's course of study (e.g. extended medical leave, unable to continue while on parental leave or study leave), a new Dissertation Committee Chair must be confirmed. It is expected that a new committee will be formed within one semester of a Dissertation Committee Chair becoming unavailable. The previous individual may continue their committee service as a Dissertation Committee Co-Chair if they hold the necessary status.

Committee Co-Chairs: Some programs may permit a Dissertation Committee Co-Chair. The only requirements for service as Dissertation Committee Co-Chair are George Mason Graduate Faculty Status and expertise relevant to the student's field of study. The Co-Chair designee may count as Member #2 or Member #3 if they meet all Member requirements.

Committee Members: Member #2 of the dissertation committee is required to be full-time George Mason Faculty, hold Graduate Faculty Status, and have expertise and credentials relevant to the student’s field of study.

Member #3 of the Dissertation Committee is required to hold Graduate Faculty Status and have expertise and appropriate credentials relevant to the student’s field of study.

Member #4 and any additional Committee members, as required by the program or requested by the student, must have expertise relevant to the student’s field of study and hold Affiliate Faculty Status (See Faculty Handbook 2.1.7) if external to the university.

Changes to Dissertation Committee: Students may request changes to the composition of their Dissertation Committee at any time. Changes involving the Dissertation Committee Chair or Co-Chair require the approval of the Program Director and all committee members. Changes only involving committee members other than the Chair or Co-Chair require approval of the Dissertation Committee Chair and the Program Director.

Individual programs may have more restrictive policies. If so, those restrictions apply. Students are referred to their degree program for more information.

If changes in faculty status result in a Dissertation Committee member who no longer meets the established minimum requirements for the university or program, no additional degree milestones may be completed or approved until the Dissertation Committee has been reformed or membership requirements have otherwise been met.

Committee Structure

Membership Minimum Required Attributes
Chair (Member #1: required)
  • George Mason Faculty with a full-time appointment in the student's academic program
  • Graduate Faculty Status
  • Expertise related to student's field of study
Member #2 (required)
  • George Mason Faculty with a full-time appointment in any academic program
  • Graduate Faculty Status
  • Expertise related to student's field of study
Member #3 (required)
  • George Mason Graduate Faculty Status
  • Expertise related to student's field of study
Member #4 (if required by program or requested by student)
  • George Mason Graduate Affiliate Faculty Status
  • Expertise related to student's field of study
Co-chair (if present)
  • George Mason Graduate Faculty Status
  • Expertise related to student's field of study
Additional Members (if present)
  • George Mason Affiliate Faculty
  • Expertise related to student's field of study

AP.6.10.6 Dissertation Registration (998, 999)

All registration for doctoral dissertation research (999) must be planned with the Dissertation Chair and approved by the dean or director of the school, college, or institute. Dissertation research (999) is open only to doctoral students who have advanced to candidacy.

Students must register for a minimum of 3 credits of 999 in their first term of dissertation research. After that term, students must enroll for at least 1 credit of 999 per term (excluding summer), unless on a Graduate Leave of Absence, until they have completed the minimum number of credits of 998 and 999 required by the university and their degree program, the dissertation is complete, and the dissertation has been successfully submitted to the library. See AP.6.2 Full-time and Half-time Classification for more information.

Students must be registered for at least 1 credit of 999 in the term in which they defend their dissertation. Individual doctoral programs may require continuous registration beginning with doctoral dissertation proposal (998). Graduation candidates who miss the library deadline for dissertation submission but do submit successfully before the next term begins do not have to register for 999 in the next term but must apply for graduation in order to have their degree conferred.

It is the student's responsibility to complete registration for 998 or 999, as applicable, prior to the first day of classes for the term. If this date is missed, students must still enroll in these courses via Add or Late Schedule Adjustment procedures and are subject to Late Registration fees. Failing to register on time in a particular term does not alter the requirement for continuous registration in 999.

For further information on grading notations for 998 and 999, see AP.3.2.1 Graduate Grading Scales and AP.3.3 Additional Undergraduate and Graduate Grade Notations.

AP.6.10.7 Doctoral Dissertation

A dissertation is required for the doctor of philosophy degree and most professional doctoral degrees. The dissertation is a written piece of original thinking that demonstrates doctoral candidates' mastery of subject matter, methodologies, and conceptual foundations in their chosen field of study. This is generally achieved through consideration of a problem on the boundaries of knowledge in the discipline.

The director of the dissertation committee is primarily responsible for directing the doctoral candidate's research and guiding the preparation of the written dissertation. After the dissertation committee is appointed, the student should begin discussions with the director to define a suitable problem for the dissertation. Before the student may enroll in doctoral dissertation research (999), the dissertation proposal must be approved by the dissertation committee and evidence of approval sent to the unit dean or director for approval. Before that time, the student may enroll in proposal research (998).

Guidelines for the content and general format of doctoral dissertations are in the Thesis, Dissertation, or Project Guide. Consult a doctoral coordinator to determine which additional reference manuals are suitable.

AP.6.10.8 Doctoral Defense

As soon as all degree requirements have been satisfied, including completion of the doctoral dissertation, the doctoral candidate may request a doctoral defense. Approval to hold a defense is given by the doctoral dissertation committee, coordinating with the program director/chair. Notice of a defense must be circulated to the university community two weeks before the defense date. The public defense should demonstrate the candidate's maturity of judgment and intellectual command of the chosen branches of the field of study.

At the close of the final defense, the dissertation committee makes final judgments for approving the dissertation. The doctoral candidate is responsible for making all required changes promptly, submitting the original and required copies, and obtaining signatures. Final approval for the dissertation is given by the doctoral dissertation committee and program director/chair.

For a dissertation to be approved, all members of the committee must sign. If a committee member refuses to do so, the student or any member of the committee may petition the unit dean or director for a review and ruling. The dean or director may seek the advice of outside reviewers to provide an assessment of the work. The final decision is that of the dean or director and is not subject to appeal.

AP.6.10.9 Dissertation Submission and Embargo

Doctoral students are required to submit their dissertations to University Dissertation and Thesis Services (UDTS) for upload to ProQuest and the Mason Archival Repository Service (MARS). Doctoral students must also complete a Survey of Earned Doctorates.

UDTS facilitates completion of requirements and submission of dissertations and theses. All dissertation submission procedures related to degree conferral in each semester and consistent with this policy are defined by UDTS. This encompasses all stated deadlines including, but not limited to, any for the required format review and final submission. For further information, consult the UDTS website.

Once a student has successfully submitted the final version of their dissertation in accordance with UDTS requirements, subsequent edits will not be allowed except under the following circumstances:

  • A formatting error has been introduced into the document when converting from one document type to another during the UDTS submission process that substantively affects the meaning of the dissertation. For example, if equations or special symbols or tables have been deleted or reconfigured in a way that the meaning has been substantively lost or altered then those corrections alone are permitted.
  • Academic Standards violations are detected. The relevant college/school must conduct a review of the dissertation and determine an appropriate course of action in accordance with the university catalog and approved by the Dean or designee of the college/school. The UDTS Coordinator must be informed in writing by the Dean or designee of the college/school of the approved course of action.

Under circumstances determined by the student's college/school, and/or program, a student may, in accordance with University Dissertation and Thesis Services (UDTS) procedures, submit a signed petition to embargo, i.e. delay, all or part of their dissertation, preventing online and on-campus access to it for a period of time (2 years, 5 years, or 10 years). All petitions are subject to the policies of the student's college/school and/or program, and some may not permit a student to embargo their work. Both the student's dissertation chair (or program designee) and the graduate associate dean of the college/school must approve the student's petition in writing and in accordance with UDTS procedures. Each program and college/school shall publish on their respective university website whether they permit a student to embargo their work and, if so, the criteria used in their respective reviews. Initial embargo request decisions are not reviewed beyond the college/school's leadership unit.

All embargo petitions will be retained by UDTS. The student, as well as the college/school's associate dean, will be provided written confirmation of the new dissertation release date by UDTS. Once the embargo period has passed, dissertations will be made available for online and on-campus access.

If the student wishes to extend the embargo past the dissertation's initial release date, the student is required to secure the approval of the graduate associate dean of the student’s college/school and the Graduate Division in the Office of the Provost at the time of the extension request. The student must submit a signed renewal request, in accordance with UDTS procedures that may include a stated deadline. Students can request a renewal period of 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years. Each college/school and the Graduate Division shall publish on their respective university website the process for initiating and embargo extension request and the criteria used in their respective reviews. UDTS will retain a copy of the student petition and confirm to the student and graduate associate dean the decision and any applicable new dissertation release date. Renewal embargo request decisions are not reviewed beyond the Graduate Division.

Authors who wish to lift an embargo prior to the established termination date must notify the UDTS Coordinator. In the case of an author's death, incapacity, or other similar circumstance, the author's estate, power of attorney, or other appropriate designee assumes decision-making authority over the embargo.

AP.6.11 Requirements for Specialist Degrees

A graduate specialist degree is considered at the level of a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study at George Mason. Students must satisfy all applicable university degree requirements, and all requirements established by the specialist degree program faculty. A local academic unit (LAU) may impose more stringent requirements, which are listed under the respective programs in this catalog.

  • Admission. Students must have been officially admitted into the specialist degree status.
  • Post-admission. Once admitted and enrolled with at least one credit, students may be required by their program to add an embedded master's degree using the appropriate form. The master's degree shall be conferred prior to the specialist degree in the term that degree requirements are met and the time limit for the master's degree conferral derives from the specialist degree admit term. Credits may not count towards more than two George Mason degrees or certificates. See AP.6.9.5 Embedded Master's Degree for additional exceptions and requirements regarding the embedded master's degree.
  • Credit Hours. Students must earn a minimum of 30 graduate credits after an earned master's degree, which may be decreased on the basis of relevant, applicable, and approved transfer work. (See AP.6.5 Previously Earned Graduate Credit )
  • Credit Level. Only graduate courses may apply toward the degree.
  • Institutional Credit. More than half of the required minimum credits applied to the degree must be earned at George Mason. Or, in the case of programs offered through joint, cooperative, or consortium arrangements, at the participating institutions, at least one-third of the credits applied to the specialist degree must be earned through direct instruction at George Mason.
  • Quality. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.00 in coursework presented on the degree application, which may include no more than 6 credits of C. (Grades of C+, C-, or D do not apply to the graduate courses. The GPA calculation excludes all transfer courses and George Mason non-degree credits not formally approved for the degree.)
  • Degree Conferral. Students must apply for graduation in order to have their specialist degree conferred. Any embedded master's degree must be conferred prior to conferral of the specialist degree.
  • Unique Credit. At least 15 credits of the specialist degree program must be applied only to that degree and cannot be used to fulfill the requirements of another degree or certificate program.

AP.6.11.1 Time Limit

Specialist degree students, both full-time and part-time, have six (6) calendar years, from their admit term for the specialist program, to complete their specialist and any embedded master's degree. Individual specialist programs may have stricter time limits, which are published in this catalog. Time limit calculation is based on the student's admit term to the primary program plus the applicable number of years. Students are responsible for knowing their time limits. See detailed information regarding how to determine the initial deadline. Absences from Mason do not affect the time limit established by the student's admit term unless on an official graduate leave of absence. Students who will not meet published time limits because of compelling circumstances beyond their control may request an exception to this policy by petitioning their dean or director for a single extension of up to one calendar year prior to the expiration of their time limit. Students seeking an extension due to a permitted leave of absence are referred to AP.6.4.5 Graduate Student Parental Leave of Absence, AP.6.4.6 Graduate Student General Leave of Absence, and AP.6.4.7 Graduate Student Medical Leave of Absence. Failure to meet the applicable time limits or to secure approval of an exception to this policy through the process described in AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination shall be considered a failure to make satisfactory academic progress and result in termination from the program under AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination. AP.6.11.1 Time Limit does not supersede a student's university-approved disability services accommodations plan.

International students attending in F-1 or J-1 status also have more restrictive time limits; contact the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) for information. Non-immigrant students in F-1 or J-1 status are further limited by the regulations governing their stay in the United States. The University issues visa documents (forms I-20 and DS-2019) that indicate the estimated length of the student's academic program. Students who need extensions beyond the initial period of stay must request them through the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) at least 30 days before the end date of their F or J Certifying Document (forms I-20 or DS-2019) issued by George Mason University. Documentation of the compelling circumstances necessitating the extension request is required by federal regulations. For further information, please consult with an advisor in OIPS.

AP.6.12 Graduate Council

The Graduate Council is an advisory body focused on matters of graduate education at George Mason University in compliance with the policies and practices set forth by George Mason University and its relevant governing bodies. It is the purpose of the Graduate Council to promote excellence and ensure quality and consistency across all graduate programs at George Mason University. The Graduate Council, through the Graduate Council Chair, advises and recommends to the Provost academic and admissions policies affecting graduate education at George Mason University including: setting minimum academic and admissions standards for all graduate programs (degrees, certificates) and academic pathways; review and approval of new graduate courses and programs (degrees, certificates) and academic pathways; reviewing and approving modified graduate programs (degrees, certificates) and academic pathways; reviewing and approving discontinued graduate programs (degrees, certificates) and academic pathways; reviewing of modified graduate courses and discontinued graduate courses; planning and facilitating the attainment of graduate education strategic goals; developing practices to enhance the graduate student experience; and ensuring compliance with accreditation requirements in each of the responsibilities named. The Office of the Provost administers university graduate academic and admissions policies.

AP.6.13 Graduate Faculty Status

To serve in required positions on thesis (AP.6.9.3 Master's Thesis) or dissertation committees (AP.6.10.5 Dissertation Committee) faculty must hold Graduate Faculty Status at George Mason. Individuals attain Graduate Faculty Status through their rank as tenured or tenure-track George Mason faculty members or through a nomination process. Graduate Faculty Status applies across the institution. The Office of the Provost coordinates nominations for Graduate Faculty Status and maintains the corresponding list of approved individuals.

George Mason tenured and tenure-track faculty are automatically granted Graduate Faculty Status upon employment. They maintain that status throughout their employment as tenure-line faculty, unless explicitly designated otherwise. Administrative service does not affect the active Graduate Faculty Status of tenured or tenure-track faculty.

Each program or department that administers graduate degrees may, at its discretion and at any time, nominate individuals who hold a terminal degree and have suitable academic training and research experience for Graduate Faculty Status. These individuals may be George Mason employees or individuals external to the university who hold Affiliate Faculty Status. Graduate Faculty Status will be granted for a term of three years unless explicitly designated for a shorter period of time.

Tenured and tenure-track faculty who leave the institution due to retirement or separation will continue to maintain Graduate Faculty Status for a period of 3 years unless it is rescinded. Term faculty with Graduate Faculty Status will retain that status until the end of the Graduate Faculty Status approval term. Faculty who leave the institution need Affiliate Faculty Status to serve on a thesis or dissertation committee. Individuals who are within a year of their Graduate Faculty Status expiring may be renewed.

Programs or departments, with approval of their Dean, may rescind Graduate Faculty Status for individuals they nominated. Individuals may resign from Graduate Faculty Status and such resignations are considered permanent.