The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is at the very center of the university’s mission to serve as a hub of intellectual dynamism and diversity, a locus of local and global civic engagement, and an access point to excellence for individuals of all backgrounds. As one of the largest colleges at Mason, CHSS employs more than 700 faculty and staff, delivers critical courses for the university community (from Mason Core and 100-level classes to advanced seminars), and offers an expansive range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary degree programs (18 undergraduate majors, 69 minors, 13 graduate certificates, 8 master’s degrees, 10 doctoral degrees, and 22 accelerated master’s degree pathways).
At CHSS, the liberal arts tradition of studying human minds, beliefs, languages, cultures, histories, societal structures, and forms of creative expression drives our community forward in advancing cutting-edge research, impactful service, and critical competencies for today’s global and knowledge-based economy. Moreover, the work of CHSS was instrumental in Mason’s attainment of the R-1 Doctoral University (Highest Research Activity) classification. Our faculty take great pride in being active scholar-teachers, and research is a vital part of the undergraduate and graduate student experience here.
In 2021, the college moved a dozen of its departments, programs, and research centers into the newest academic building on the Fairfax Campus, Horizon Hall. Described by University Life’s Taj Kokayi as “peak Mason,” and featuring 27 classrooms designed with technology and furniture to support active-learning environments, the opening of Horizon, in tandem with the renovation of Wilkins Plaza and completion of the Memorial to the Enslaved People of George Mason, both grounds us in our past and fuels the hope and excitement of a once-again vibrant campus. The college stands ready to move forward to help our students create the changes that will make our community a better place.
I invite you to explore our website, follow us on social media—and reach out in person as you find occasion for greater engagement in our vibrant community.
Dean Ann L. Ardis
