MS Management

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Mason University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Management (MSM) at George Mason University’s Costello College of Business is a flexible, multidisciplinary graduate program designed to develop essential management knowledge and leadership capabilities. Students combine business fundamentals with a specialized graduate certificate, allowing them to customize their degree around their career interests and professional goals.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Business Fundamentals: Students build a strong foundation in core business disciplines through courses such as Financial Reporting and Decision Making (GBUS 613), Marketing Management (GBUS 623), and Operations Management (GBUS 638). Additional coursework includes Managerial Finance (GBUS 643), Organizational Behavior (GBUS 653), and Management of Information Technology and The Digital Enterprise (GBUS 662), developing an understanding of how different business functions work together.

Year 2 – Specialized Learning: Students deepen their expertise by completing a 15-credit graduate certificate in an area aligned with their professional interests. Options include Business Analytics, Human Capital and Human Resource Management, Marketing, Information Security Management, Conflict Analysis and Resolution, and Environmental and Sustainability Management. Students pursuing a 12-credit certificate complete the remaining credits through approved electives or experiential learning options, such as an internship or global residency.

Focus Areas

Business strategy, management, and organizational leadership
Financial reporting, managerial finance, and decision-making
Marketing, operations, and information technology management
Business analytics, human resources, and information security
Specialized interdisciplinary learning through graduate certificates

Learning Outcomes

Apply business knowledge across different organizational functions.
Demonstrate effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Analyze complex business situations and make informed decisions.
Understand global business challenges and emerging industry trends.
Apply ethical principles and professional judgment in management practices.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program develops practical management capabilities through coursework, applied projects, simulations, and guest-speaker sessions. George Mason University's Costello College of Business holds AACSB accreditation, an internationally recognized standard for business education quality. The university also holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

George Mason University's Costello College of Business is recognized in the QS Business School Rankings 2026, where its MS in Management is ranked #10 among public universities and #19 in the United States. Its Online MS in Management is ranked #7 among public universities and #8 in the United States, reflecting the program's strong standing in graduate business education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Mason University, the MS in Management program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through a combination of group projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students develop the practical skills necessary to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. The program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only learn the concepts but also apply them in real-world scenarios.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MS Management program:

- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with local businesses and organizations, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on team-based projects that simulate real business challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as SAP, Tableau, and Microsoft Power BI for data analysis and decision-making processes.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to local companies and organizations, providing insights into various industries and networking opportunities with professionals.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research facilities that support innovative projects and studies, enhancing your learning experience.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including databases and journals, to support your research and coursework.
- Institute for Digital Innovation: Engage with the Institute for Digital Innovation, which focuses on the intersection of technology and management, offering workshops and seminars.
- Mason Enterprise Center: Take advantage of the Mason Enterprise Center, which provides resources for entrepreneurship and business development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MS in Management at George Mason University opens doors to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as Management Consultant, Project Manager, Operations Manager, or Business Analyst. With a strong foundation in management principles and practical experience, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in various industries:

- University Services: George Mason offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The university boasts an impressive employment rate, with over 90% of graduates securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for MS Management graduates is around $75,000, reflecting the program's strong reputation.
- University–Industry Partnerships: George Mason has established partnerships with leading organizations such as Deloitte, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Capital One, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experiences.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MS Management program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a mark of excellence that enhances your degree's value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve significant career advancements, with many moving into leadership positions within just a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS in Management, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. in Management. These advanced degrees can lead to academic positions, research opportunities, or high-level consulting roles, allowing you to deepen your expertise and expand your career horizons.