George Mason MSM | Curriculum
The MSM program runs for 11 months, and is split into five modules. During each module, students follow a structured progression of coursework in topics such as organizational behavior, information technology, economics, and operations management. The 12 courses are intended to provide a rigorous introduction to business fundamentals with a global emphasis.
“We attract a lot of students because they can complete the full degree in 11 months. One initial conversation is helping them understand that the year is intense and fast-paced,” Jackie says. “It’s similar to the first year of an MBA.”
This structure is intended to provide candidates with an overview of how a business is run. Concepts like decision making and conflict management are woven through the quantitative subjects such as finance and accounting.
The MSM faculty are committed to providing a classroom experience that will enhance the practical application of theory as students enter the workforce. Internships are carefully planned in coordination with Kimberly Blue, the School of Business’ graduate career manager. Blue assists in connecting students with placements that support their skills, professional interests, and academic background.
The Global Residency and course work during Module 5 introduce students to the nuances of being part of a global organization. The course work begins with three-to-four weeks of in-class preparation for the seven-to-nine day international residency. The trip is focused on company visits to learn more about conducting business in global organizations. Previously, students traveled to Argentina, Iceland, and Ireland.
“The Global Residency and internships are the places where the theory comes to life,” Victoria says.
George Mason MSM | Careers
George Mason University School of Business MSM graduates earn on average $62,000 upon graduating. Graduates have found jobs in a wide variety of industries, with recent graduates hired in consulting, federal government, health care management, and education.
Uno Izegbu made his way into the public sector after his MSM. He came to the MSM a few years after earning his bachelor’s in French and communications. He had spent a number of years since high school working in hospitality but was keen to break away from the industry.
The Mason MSM was a strong addition to his liberal arts background, and felt that it would allow him to apply for the jobs he was interested in. Overall, it gave him a strong introduction to concepts that he had little knowledge about.
“The program actually helped me to understand certain facets of the business world that I didn't really understand before, topics in finance like compound interest, principles for investing,” Izegbu says.
The program helped him identify three facets that he was looking for in a job: “I didn't want to have to sell anything, I wanted somewhere there would be room for career growth, and something that would be meaningful to me.”
He is now working in the District of Columbia Human Resources department as a special assistant for mayoral appointments, where he advises and aids with on-boarding for cabinet appointments, boards, and commissions.
“The master’s [degree] helped me to see life in a different way. I feel better prepared for whatever comes my way.”
