Terrorism and Homeland Security (Graduate Certificate)
Program Summary
Hybrid OR 100% Online
Credits: 15 total
Degree: Graduate Certificate
College/School: Schar School of Policy and Government
Start Date: 8/24/2026
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Program Description
The Graduate Certificate in Terrorism and Homeland Security at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government is an interdisciplinary introduction to the phenomenon of modern terrorism and its implications for U.S. domestic and foreign policy. It focuses on multidisciplinary analysis and holistic cross-sectoral approaches to long-term prevention of and response to terrorism.
Banner code: PP-CERG-TRHS
Careers
As a Schar School student, you may also contact the Schar School Career Services for more career information and counseling.
Courses
New to online learning? Visit our Online Learning Tips and Strategies page to learn more about what to expect and how to succeed in an online course at George Mason.
Details
Who should apply?
This program is designed for professionals and graduate students interested in terrorism, counterterrorism, homeland security, and national security. It is particularly suited for those pursuing or advancing careers in government, law enforcement, intelligence, defense, emergency management, public policy, and international security who want to develop expertise in terrorism analysis, prevention, response, and the evolving threat of CBRN terrorism.
Tuition & Financial Aid
All of Mason’s tuition rates and fees can be found on our Student Accounts site.
Please Note: In addition to the tuition and fees described above, various course and lab fees may be assessed depending on the course(s) in which the student is enrolled. Please refer to the Students Accounts Office website for more information on tuition and fees.
For information on loans, visit the Office of Student Financial Aid. For information regarding merit scholarships and Regional Pricing, please inquire with your graduate department. Additionally, visit the Office of Military Services for information about Armed Forces Tuition Assistance (TA), a benefit for eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
If you have any questions during the application process, please contact [email protected] or (703) 993-8099.
Why choose George Mason?
- One of few programs in terrorism and homeland security, graduates of this program are in constant demand. Most recently, graduates have held positions with the Central Intelligence Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Departments of Defense, State, Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Energy, as well as numerous defense contracting companies and research institutions.
- Online coursework allows local students to reduce their DC-beltway commute and to complete the program on a part-time basis to fit your schedule.
- This program’s faculty includes high-level professionals from diverse sectors, ranging from the intelligence community and prestigious think tanks to experts in molecular and microbiology, CBRN weapons, and terrorism.
- George Mason University is located in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., providing a regional context for students interested in government, public policy, national security, public health, and related fields.
Ready to Apply?
Application Requirements
All applicants should review Schar School of Policy and Government Application Requirements. Those with international credentials should follow Schar’s International Applicant Requirements.
Application Materials
- Graduate application and fee
- 750-1000 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).
- Please select “Degree-seeking” in the application portal if you are applying to a graduate certificate
If you have any questions during the application process, please contact [email protected] or (703) 993-8099.
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Contact
Program Website:
Terrorism and Homeland Security (Graduate Certificate)
School Contact
Schar School Graduate Admissions
Phone: (703) 993-8099
Email: [email protected]
Department Website: