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George Mason University

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is OSCAR and how can it support my research?

The Office of Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR) is home of undergraduate research and creative activities at George Mason University. OSCAR provides students the opportunity to connect with faculty and to the research and creative mission of the institution. Faculty engage students in current and relevant activities using new paradigms of instruction and active modeling of critical thinking.

OSCAR can help you find a project and mentor, secure funding, and regularly share information about undergraduate research opportunities. OSCAR also provides student travel grants, supports interdisciplinary courses, and hosts events to showcase your research.

Explore everything OSCAR has to over by visiting oscar.gmu.edu.

 

2. What research is the College of Science known for?

The college serves as the nexus for research and education in the natural, mathematical, and computational sciences at George Mason University. Our research faculty study subjects that not only fill knowledge gaps, but also enhance society. See our expertise [link to expertise page]for specifics on what the college is most known for. Be sure to also read more about our faculty to learn if their areas of focus are similar to your own.

 

3. Why should I study at an R1 university?

George Mason is among an elite group of 120 institutions recognized for its high research performance in both productivity and impact. The youngest independent university designation as an R1 institution, the distinction further highlights Mason’s mission to innovate and positively affect the greater community.

 

4. How can I get ideas for research projects? 

It’s rare for undergraduate students to conduct research independently, so many find a research professor in need of assistance to get first-hand experience. The college encourages students to find a mentor in order to enhance their educational experience and further prepare them for a career after Mason. While many in the College of Science are willing to work with you, Mason’s Office of Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR) is dedicated to connect undergraduate students with research opportunities. You can learn more about OSCAR by visiting oscar.gmu.edu.

 

5. When should I start my research experience?

Your college experience is based on what you put into it, which is why we encourage all students interested in research to find a mentor or study to work on as early as their freshman year. If you don’t know where to start, be sure to talk to your professors who are sure to lead you in the right direction.

 

6. What research facilities are available to Mason Science students?

Hands-on learning is more than just a catch phrase for Mason student scientists. The college offers many innovative learning environments that immerse students in their field of study, from biohazard research labs to crime scene houses. See a full list of our facilities here.

* The programs and services offered by George Mason University are open to all who seek them. George Mason does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic national origin (including shared ancestry and/or ethnic characteristics), sex, disability, military status (including veteran status), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, pregnancy status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. After an initial review of its policies and practices, the university affirms its commitment to meet all federal mandates as articulated in federal law, as well as recent executive orders and federal agency directives.