Mason Online

Global Health and 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 Global Health and Security at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government provides an introduction to the intersection of global public health and security, covering topics such as emerging infectious diseases, biosurveillance, the development of vaccines, and emergency response to public health disasters.

Consisting of only five courses, this is an affordable and strategic investment in advancing your career by earning a credential from a highly ranked policy school, while obtaining critical knowledge on some of the most pressing international issues. This certificate can also be applied to a master’s degree, offering students exceptional flexibility.

Banner code: PP-CERG-GHS

Careers

As a Schar School student, you may also contact the Schar School Career Services for more career information and counseling.

Courses

Program requirements may change; please refer to the Global Health graduate certificate program page in the Mason Course Catalog for the most up-to-date requirements. This program can be completed completely online or in a hybrid format.

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?

The Global Health and Security Graduate Certificate at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government is designed for professionals and students seeking specialized knowledge in global health security, emerging infectious diseases, public health preparedness, and health security policy. The program provides an interdisciplinary perspective on the complex health and security challenges facing communities and nations worldwide, preparing students to contribute to careers in global health, public policy, government, national security, and related fields.

This program is designed for:

Designed for professionals and graduate students seeking specialized expertise in global health security, public health policy, emerging infectious diseases, emergency preparedness, and international health governance. It is ideal for those pursuing or advancing careers in government, public health, international organizations, nonprofits, healthcare, and related fields.

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 global health and security 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.
  • 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
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If you have any questions during the application process, please contact [email protected] or (703) 993-8099.

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Contact

Program Website:

Global Health and Security Graduate Certificate

School Contact

Schar School Graduate Admissions:
Phone: (703) 993-8099
Email: [email protected]

Department Website:

Schar School of Policy and Government

Student completing course work on a computer in a library.