Program Description

Application Requirements

Program-Specific Instructions

Students taking the Biodefense program entirely online are generally advised to enroll part time due to the course availability of online classes.

The required goal statement should be 1-2 pages in length and address your goals for the program- why are you applying to this specific program, what do you hope to accomplish in the program, what are your goals post-program, and anything else you wish for us to know about your candidacy.

If you would like to address any potential concerns the admissions committee may have regarding your previous academic and/or professional background, you may do so in the goal statement or upload a supplemental document.

There is no work experience required for Schar School master’s programs. There are also no prerequisite course or specific academic background requirements. 

The GRE is not required for Schar School master's programs. 

English Proficiency Requirements

All Mason students must have a full command of academic English to be successful in their studies. For this reason, Mason requires applicants to demonstrate English proficiency for admission consideration, regardless of citizenship. Click here to view the requirements.

International Transcript Requirements

All transcripts from colleges or universities outside the United States must be translated into English, if applicable, and submitted for evaluation to the Mason Office of Admissions. Mason will provide evaluation service free of charge for all international transcripts, however, some programs may request an outside evaluation be completed. Because of volume, more time may be needed to process applications requiring a Mason evaluation. You should submit your application 6 weeks prior to the deadline if you plan to utilize Mason’s free evaluation service. For expedited service, students may submit their documents to any NACES member organization at their own expense. If you decide to use an external evaluation service or if your program requires an outside evaluation, GPA and Degree equivalences must be included with your course-by-course evaluation. Mason evaluations are used for internal purposes and are not released to applicants. For information on international transcript requirements, go here.