Benefits and Opportunities

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A Full Tuition Scholarship

The University Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, making it the largest, most-competitive merit-based academic scholarship available to in-coming freshmen.

2012-2013 In-State Award Amounts

Per Year                                    $9,420+

Over four years                        $36,804+

2011-2012 Out-of-State Award Amounts

Per Year                                    $27,564+

Over four years                        $110,256+

* As a full tuition scholarship, the value of the scholarship increases with any increase in tuition.

 

Major Benefits and Opportunities

University Scholars have offered a wide variety of unique opportunities, including:

• Enhanced, individualized academic advising from Honors College faculty.
• Mentoring and guidance on academic interests, the development of leadership skills, and preparation for job, internship, and graduate school applications.
• Priority registration for classes.
• Unique opportunities to engage with faculty and guest speakers – many of whom are invited by University Scholars.
• Guaranteed placement in the Honors College Freshman Living Learning Community.
• 24-hour access to a dedicated study lounge and computer lab.

 

An Enhanced Intellectual Experience

Beginning in 2011, all University Scholars have the opportunity to  participate in a unique four-year co-curricular program that supplements their individual courses of study. This program allows students to pursue long-term projects of their design, and it connects them directly with faculty, policymakers, and innovators outside of campus.  By the time they complete this program, each University Scholar will be able to show potential employers, as well as graduate and professional schools, specific evidence of their capacity to think critically, to work with a team, and to generate innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Year 1 New University Scholars work together to develop a unifying theme.

Year 2 In the week prior to the fall term, students participate in the University Scholars Institute. Students travel to relevant sites in the National Capital Region, meet with experts and practitioners, and work with Mason faculty to develop a better understanding of this topic.

Year 3 Scholars design and pursue their Third-Year Projects – ranging from research projects to service projects, entrepreneurial plans to creative exhibits and performances – that relate to the class them.

Year 4 The University Scholars host a symposium based on their theme, sharing their work with the University and featuring a keynote speaker of their choosing.