Graduate Certificate Admissions

Our graduate certificate programs allow students to remain competitive in an increasingly complex global economy by gaining specialized education in their area of interest. Each certificate program includes five courses for a total of 15 credits. Part-time and full-time study is available, and students typically complete the certificate in one to one-and-a-half years.

Application Requirements

While most students admitted to the Schar School have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, we take a holistic approach to review the application and consider all materials including work experience, elapsed time since your previous degree, recommendations, and personal statement.

Additional materials include:

  • Graduate application and fee
  • 750 -1,000-word written statement of your goals and interest in the program
  • Resume
  • Unofficial transcripts from all previous institutions attended in the U.S. For international institutions, transcripts may be unofficial but should include cumulative transcripts, degree certificate, individual semester marksheets (if applicable), and diploma (if applicable).
  • Additional requirements for applicants with international credentials

Fall Admission

Applications for fall 2024 are still being considered on a rolling, space-available basis for domestic applicants.

Spring Admission

Regular domestic deadline: January 5

Request Information


To stay informed about the programs you’re interested in, complete our Graduate Program Interest Form.
(please do not use shared email addresses)


 
Students walking on the plaza at Mason Square

Office Location:

Mason Square, Van Metre Hall, Fifth Floor
3351 Fairfax Drive, 5th Floor, MS 3B1
Arlington, VA 22201

Contact Information:

Phone: 703-993-8099
Fax: 703-993-4876
Email: schar@gmu.edu

Location