George Mason University Reviews

"The psychology graduate program has been an amazing experience and I definitely feel that I made the right choice in moving to northern VA. Although my program concentration is small, it still offers a range of classes and has the support of a larger program, which was essential when I was choosing a program. Beyond my program, professors are always willing to incorporate additional students into their labs and because of my initiative and professors' willingness to help, I have found myself with a new cadre of friends and future colleagues."

"The program has gone through some administrative changes recently, which has created some lack of consistency and reliability in the field placement aspect of the program. Nevertheless, the field placement is one of the best parts of the program, providing real experience and a class to discuss those experiences with your peers, a professor, and a field supervisor. It is probably the most challenging part of the program. The professors or nice and usually helpful, some are better than others. Overall, it's a decent program and pretty good value for in-state students."

"Pros: The program of Biological sciences is fairly competitive and you can link up with good faculty if you do your research. Most professors are very considerate and understanding of grad students with 9-5's. In my opinion, the environmental science and policy program is where most of the talent is. Cons: I think the school of systems biology is new and still working out the kinks. Even though there is a feeling of potential in the department, much of it seems underdeveloped. Many of the students keep to themselves- commuting to class and back home again. Not a whole lot of "grad student life" unless you are in the ESP where students seem more tightly knit."

"GMU includes innovation as part of their vision, and this was a major factor in my choosing to go there. There is definitely an aura of progress and future thinking there that I am proud to be a part of. Traffic is absurd in Northern Virginia, and the cost of living is somewhat high, but GMU seems to have been very considerate with many infrastructure improvement projects. Without a doubt a university that is looking ahead."

"The courses in the Environmental Science and Policy department are really good, taught by incredible professors. On the other hand, I've had trouble finding funding for my PhD research, with little or no help from my advisors. My committee is impossible to get together. The graduate teaching assistantship pays very poorly and the GTAs are given too much to do for the supposedly 20 hours they're paid for."

"The quality of the education was very high for this program. However, it catered more towards PhD students rather than Master's students. As a part-time student (working full time) it was difficult to get out to campus. How enjoyable a class was heavily relied on the professor's personality rather than the actual subject matter."

"The professors and accessibility network of support are superior in my opinion. I am half way through my graduate degree in MEd with License in ECSE. I have had only one teacher that I would rate less than par. My student adviser is committed and generous with her time. Course materials are never older than 2010 copyright and thus current in research based practices most current. Weaknesses I would say that the counseling services are very poor in my opinion, however Office of Disability Services could use additional support but is exemplary overall. I think the accessible and general student parking is a drag and weakness. The location is not great and the campus is less than stellar in looks. Some buildings are very old and outdated with small rooms and cramped feeling. However my school recently relocated to a new building I find great. They have the Thomas Haggai and Associates Scholarship for my program, which has allowed me to attend graduate school despite the need to re-apply each year. I would prefer to qualify for this additional years if my GPA was kept high. This would be a weakness."

"George Mason provides an amazing balance of challenge and support. I give my all with the confidence that I am learning the state of the art and the comfort of knowing my faculty will guide me with tremendous expertise!"

"Pursuing my Masters in Peace Operations through the School of Public Policy at the Arlington campus. Great program, professors are very supportive and helpful -- one thing (that is by no means a problem but needs to be something students understand and are looking for) is that while SPP is beginning to grow their practical policy related classes (policy communications, writing for policy professionals, etc.) the program is heavy on theory and a little light on practical/technical coursework. Overall, however, I really like the program and would recommend it highly."

"Wonderful partnerships with surrounding schools and excellent professors. The surrounding area is very expensive and very crowded"

"The GMU graduate program in sociology provides a supportive environment for developing expertise in both academic and public/applied sociology. Faculty and advisers are approachable and interested in helping their students develop and achieve. Classes are typically scheduled later in the day to accommodate working students."

"The graduate program experience was a rewarding one. As a full time student I had a rich and diverse 2yrs. Graduate school is a commitment and entails hard work and dedication. But at the end, you become a better more competitive person in your field."

"The grad program is still in its infancy. I expected it to be more challenging with greater networks. I think the program director is doing an excellent job, however, there are many classes that I would consider undergrad level. The pros of the program, however, is that it is flexible enough for students who are working full time and going to grad school part time. The hours are flexible and transportation is accessible"

"GMU is a very good university which allows student to find their paths and help them to full fill their goals."

"pro: lower cost of living. con: not competitive"

"I've been a GMU Masters and PhD student for several years. The program continues to improve. E.g., they now have graduate student housing, with more on the way; the Graduate and Professional Student Association (GAPSA) has a stronger presence on campus and the ear of the GMU president and the Board of Visitors; and, there is better consolidated information for graduate students via gradlife.gmu.edu."

"I believe that you have the ability to network and meet other professionals in your cohort. The cost of the program is a little expensive and the financial aid opportunities for graduate students are pretty low."

"Pros- the many aspects and diversity of the program."

"The program is very informative and helpful for adult professionals wanting to establish a flourishing career. I am one of the youngest in the program so affordability is not the easiest for me."

"So far I like the Grad program in History. It's a good program and am excited to finish out my Master's degree here."