Biodefense (MS)
Program Summary
Hybrid OR 100% Online
Credits: 36 total
Degree: MS
College/School: Schar School of Policy and Government
Start Date: 8/25/2025
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Program Description
This master’s degree in biodefense prepares students to become the next generation of biodefense and biosecurity professionals and scholars. Coursework in this program provides students with a foundation in microbiology and biotechnology combined with a broader security and organizational context. Students who have a background in fields such as science, international affairs, political science, law, public policy, and conflict resolution are encouraged to apply to this program. Note that the online format of this program is only available on a part-time basis.
Career Descriptions
This degree will improve your earning potential in in a variety of government agencies and private sector organizations concerned with biodefense. A small sample of employers of program graduates includes:
- American Type Culture Collection
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Central Intelligence Agency
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- Department of Homeland Security
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- National Science Foundation
- Tauri Group
- US Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy
- US Department of Defense
- US Food and Drug Administration
As a Schar School student, you may also contact the Schar School Career Services for more career information and counseling.
Further Studies
You may consider pursuing the face-to-face PhD in Biodefense at George Mason University upon completion of the Biodefense, MS.
Courses
Program requirements may change; please refer to the Biodefense, MS Program Page in the Mason Course Catalog for the most up-to-date requirements.
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 those who desire to become a professional in biodefense or biosecurity. In this program, students gain a foundation in microbiology and biotechnology, providing you with the skills necessary to work on the frontline of national security and policy.
Why choose George Mason?
- One of few programs in biodefense nationwide, 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.
- You can easily transfer courses from some Schar School of Policy and Government certificate programs to complete this MS in Biodefense.
- 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.
- Students may receive credit for participating in a qualifying internship.
- 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.
Ready to Apply?
Application Materials
- Graduate application and fee
- 750-1,000 word written statement of your goals and interest in the program
- Current 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)
- Two letters of recommendation. At least one recommendation should be from an individual who is qualified to attest to the candidate’s academic potential
- Additional requirements for applicants with international credentials
If you have any questions during the application process, please contact [email protected] or (703) 993-8099.
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Tuition and Financial Aid
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.
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