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Applied Information Technology (MS)

Program Description

Prepare to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive IT strategic initiatives with a Master of Science in Applied Information Technology (AIT) from George Mason University. 

You’ll learn how to justify, design, develop, manage, and sustain mega-systems as you gain extensive knowledge of the top IT fields including:

  • Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies
  • Cyber Security
  • Machine Learning Engineering
  • Big Data Analytics
  • Intelligence Methods
  • Natural Language Processing
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You’ll gain experience in practical, day-to-day IT challenges, learning from highly credentialed and experienced faculty.

The MS in Applied Information Technology offers three tracks, including concentrations in Cyber Security, Data Analytics & Intelligence Methods, and Machine Learning Engineering.

With the Cyber Security concentration, you’ll gain experience addressing the most complex security challenges facing society right now through a high-quality, 100% online curriculum that leverages scholarship, academic research, and industry best practices, processes, and methodologies in the field of cyber security.

The Data Analytics & Intelligence Methods concentration offers a wide variety of methods to convert data in decisions in various contexts; including scarce data to big data, from factual data to probabilistic data, from statistical methods to data mining and intelligence techniques.

The Machine Learning Engineering concentration examines data science techniques to address real-world challenges. With this track, you’ll learn how to select, adapt, optimize, and design machine learning algorithms for various applications.

Click to learn more about the program from our award-winning faculty.

The MS in Applied Information Technology (MS AIT) has now been officially designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the NSA and DHS. This is a significant recognition that highlights the program’s strength in cybersecurity education and its alignment with national standards.

Fast Track Option Available for George Mason Engineering Alumni

This option is available for George Mason Engineering alumni who graduated with a 3.0 or better overall GPA, or current George Mason Engineering undergraduates within one semester of graduation with a 3.0 or better GPA (and a final 3.0 or better GPA in the BS must be confirmed prior to first course registration.) Click here for more information or contact your admissions representative.

Emergency Management and Homeland Security (Graduate Certificate)

Program Description

This certificate is ideal for those interested in policy, planning, security, and organizational and management issues related to emergency preparedness and homeland security. Private sector consultants will gain critical expertise and credibility; local fire and police department staff will put their first response duties into a larger context; and Federal, State, and Local Government Agencies and U.S. Military employees will gain essential knowledge and tools to minimize damage from natural disasters and prevent external attacks.

Biodefense (MS)

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.

Digital Public Humanities (Graduate Certificate)

Program Description

Digital tools and resources are transforming the ways in which we research, interpret, and communicate. This graduate certificate trains students in a wide range of digital tools that are in increasingly high demand in humanities careers. Students will use these tools to develop digital projects and enhance their professional portfolios, and an internship will help students gain professional experience. Internships will be coordinated remotely, allowing students to work from any location.

Nursing (RN to BSN and Co-enrollment Programs)

Program Description

The RN to BSN  program allows registered nurses to progress quickly through the BSN program while meeting the objectives of the undergraduate curriculum.  RNs can complete the BSN program  in as little as two semesters.

The Co-enrollment BSN program allows students to begin taking online classes toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree while enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science nursing degree (AAS-Nursing) program at a partner Virginia community college. Applicants can earn their BSN in as little as one-semester after completing the AAS-Nursing degree and obtaining their RN license.

Both programs are 10 courses (30 credit hours), completely online, and can be taken on a full-  or part-time basis. Course offerings vary by term and are typically offered in a 7-week format, so students are expected to plan accordingly.  Courses include research, leadership and management, and health assessment.

Online MEd in Special Education – Behavior Analysis

Program Description

George Mason’s online Master of Education in Special Education – Behavior Analysis equips students to support individuals with complex learning disabilities and behavior disorders across the lifespan. Learning in flexible online courses taught by faculty who are practitioner-scholars, students gain research skills, complete a thesis, and are trained to work in diverse settings with populations ranging from children with developmental disabilities to adults with behavioral health goals. This 36-credit program aligns with the 2027 Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB) coursework requirements and prepares graduates to sit for the BACB exam.*

Ranked No. 5 of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Special Education Programs (2025)

Learning Technologies, Blended and Online Learning in Schools Concentration (Graduate Certificate)

Program Description

This program is designed for K-12 educators who are interested in blending online and face-to-face instruction, teaching fully-online courses, or evaluating online educational options. This program adds a valuable dimension to professional teaching qualifications, signifying advanced knowledge and expertise to employers. Subject to your school division guidelines, students may be able to earn professional development credits for taking courses in this program. It is expected that applicants to this program have a valid K-12 state licensure, but exceptions can be made for those teaching in private schools or other contexts where state licensure is not required.

Leadership and Human Development (MEd)

Program Description

This 30-credit master’s degree in Leadership and Human Development prepares candidates for leadership and management positions in a variety of educational settings. The program emphasizes an understanding of the complexities of change in schools, communities, and organizations. Participants develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to create and maintain learning environments that value diversity, continual knowledge acquisition, instructional leadership, innovative and ethical decision making, reflective practice, and successful achievement of all students.

Curriculum & Instruction, Assistive Technology Concentration (MEd)

Program Description

Assistive technology (AT) refers to any device that provides greater independence for those with disabilities, including assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices. Designed to develop professionals who can effectively implement, assess, and research applications of AT, this master’s program prepares educators and other professionals to work with individuals with disabilities, service providers, and family members. Graduates of this program will use assistive technology to help individuals function more effectively in school, home, work, and community environments.

Concentrations

  • Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology (Graduate Certificate)

Program Description

Assistive technology (AT) refers to any device that provides greater independence for those with disabilities, including assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices. This certificate program helps develop professionals who can effectively implement, assess, and research applications of assistive technology. The program provides supplemental knowledge for general and special educators, related service personnel, adult service providers, and families and caregivers who need to apply assistive technology solutions within their specific school, work, home, or community setting.