The School of Integrative Studies (SIS) curriculum allows students to integrate research, theory and practice across numerous disciplines and experiences. Students access all the resources offered at Mason and draw the critical connections they will need among the topics they study, the experiences they have, the personal reflections they create and the careers they pursue. Integrative studies encourages students to identify today’s complex problems and pursue opportunities inside and outside the classroom, synthesizing theory and practice. Graduates will enter the workforce able to communicate across disciplines to find ethical, actionable solutions to the world’s challenges.
At SIS, integrative studies is characterized by:
Small, discussion-oriented classes focused on collaborative learning
Numerous opportunities for faculty-directed research
Required experiential learning through internships, field studies and service learning
Individualized and standardized concentrations to prepare students for the workplace or future studies
Leadership experiences inside and outside the classroom Providing opportunities for civic and community engagement
Celebration of diversity, rooted in global awareness
Emphasis on eight core competencies: critical thinking, communication, group collaboration, global understanding, digital literacy, civic engagement, aesthetic awareness and well-being
When Deanna Moore, an integrative studies major, first arrived at George Mason University, she never thought she would spend part of her junior year as an intern, studying endangered cats with researchers from the Smithsonian’s Center for Species Survival.
During winter break, eight Mason students travelled to Cambodia with Field Studies at SAIL for the course “Post Genocide Community Development and Spirituality.” New Century College Professor Tom Wood led the 14-day trip during which students travelled the length of the country, studying Cambodia’s history, religion and culture.
On April 30, New Century College Professor Al Fuertes and students from his NCLC 475 Human Trafficking and the International Community course presented at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Blue Campaign event, “Engaging Education Stakeholders to Raise Awareness of Human Trafficking.”
