George Mason University (GMU)

As Virginia’s largest public research university, we set the standard for a bold, progressive education that serves our students and communities.

We Were Made to Make it Better

Our identity was forged in 1972 on Virginia's strong ideals of academic excellence and service. Today, that spirit energizes us as a leader in scholarship and research; preparing graduates to meet the complex needs of a rapidly changing world.

Our Motto: Freedom and Learning

Our Mission: A public, comprehensive, research university established by the Commonwealth of Virginia in the National Capital Region, we are an innovative and inclusive academic community committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world.

The Mason Graduate

• An engaged citizen.
• A well-rounded scholar.
• Prepared to act. 

Our Values

• Our students come first: Our top priority is to provide students with a transformational learning experience that helps them grow as individuals, scholars and professionals
• Diversity is our strength: We include and embrace a multitude of people and ideas in everything we do and respect differences
• Innovation is our tradition: We strive to find new and better ways to deliver on our mission while honoring time-tested academic values
• We honor freedom of thought and expression: We protect the freedom of all members of our community to seek truth and express their views
• We are careful stewards: We manage the economic and natural resources entrusted to us responsibly and sustainably
• We act with integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as educators, scholars, students and professionals
• We thrive together: We nurture a positive and collaborative community that contributes to the well-being and success of every member