The Schar School of Policy and Government

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Where Purpose Meets Public Impact

At George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government, we are charting a bold vision for the future. Building on our reputation for cutting-edge research, practical training, and a commitment to public service, we are expanding our impact in three critical areas of global importance—defense, intelligence, and security; migration, trade, and illicit economies; and regional economic challenges.

At the same time, we are doubling down on our responsibility to students through the Catalyst Fund, which ensures that every promising scholar has access to the support they need to thrive, and through the launch of the Schar School Fellowship Program, a postdoctoral initiative designed to bring new talent and ideas into our classrooms and research.

The next decade is about transformation—not only for our school, but for the region and the nation. With your partnership, the Schar School will continue preparing leaders who are ready to address the most pressing challenges of our time.

Why the Schar School? Why Now? Why You?

Nearly 2,000 students enrolled across policy, political science, administration, international security, biodefense, and global trade.

One of the largest policy schools in the nation—almost 300 schools exist, but few match our size and scope.
Unique advantage: Most graduate students already work in government, allowing ideas to move rapidly from classroom to policy.

Global impact: Faculty research addresses issues from cybersecurity and migration to governance and economic development.

Five Pillars for the Next Decade

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Defense, Intelligence, and Security

Strengthening our global leadership in security studies, national intelligence, and defense policy at a time of rapid geopolitical change.

Migration, Trade, and Illicit Economies

Tackling the realities of human migration, international trade, economic warfare, and the dark networks of trafficking and illicit economies that shape global affairs.

Regional Economic Challenges

Moving beyond analysis to action—identifying and implementing solutions that drive inclusive economic growth in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region and beyond.

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The Catalyst Fund

A dedicated resource to ensure students have access to vital support—mentorship, professional development, and faculty-led communities—that tuition alone cannot cover.

Give to the Catalyst Fund

The Schar School Fellowship Program

A new postdoctoral fellowship bringing emerging scholars into our classrooms and research, ensuring that Schar remains at the forefront of the field with the best minds tackling urgent policy challenges.

Give to the Fellowship Program

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Help Shape the Future

The Schar School’s last decade was marked by growth and distinction. The next will be defined by impact. Join us as we prepare the next generation of leaders, shape national and global policy conversations, and strengthen the future of our region.

Your support will accelerate our vision. Together, we will shape the next decade.