Academics at Mason LIFE are split in two: Foundational Courses and Exploration Courses.
Foundational Courses are taught by Mason LIFE Program Staff and are designed to provide students with continued education at the college setting with appropriate support. These courses are for Mason LIFE students only and are non-credit based.
Exploration Academics Courses are university courses taught by GMU faculty. Students do not earn college credit, and are working towards a comprehensive concentration. Student enrollment in exploration courses depends on:
- Course availability-if it is offered that semester
- Faculty approval
- Your interest and schedule
Yes, students are required to complete the following courses:
- Literature
- Writing
- Math
- Self-Regulation
- Human Sexuality and Relationship Fundamentals (2 years)
- Employment (2 years)
- Independent Living
- Banking
- Budgeting
Yes, students will also be enrolled in a support class for additional assistance. These support classes provide an opportunity to do homework, class assignments, and review course materials.
Support is individualized and will be evaluated after the first year in Foundational Courses.
Sometimes, it depends on readiness and success in Foundational Courses.
Students do not have a major. Students will complete a five-course comprehensive concentration. To receive a comprehensive concentration, students may either take 5 courses within one academic program (e.g., Sport and Recreation, Information Technology, or others) or take 5 courses within any academic unit(s) and earn a Certificate of Integrated Studies.
A minor may also be earned by taking an additional 3 Exploration courses in one specific area.
In college, the amount of homework assigned depends on each class and the instructor.