100% Online Professional Certificate Programs

Bringing George Mason to More Learners

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Gain Impressive Credentials Online with George Mason University

Whether your goal is to enter a new field or advance in your current role, George Mason University’s Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) programs deliver the in-demand expertise you need for lasting success. Enhance your career in several fields, such as:

  • Business
  • Finance
  • Government Contracting
  • Human Resources
  • IT
  • Leadership and Coaching
  • Paralegal
  • Project Management

Our easy-to-access courses are designed for busy professionals. You don’t need to enroll as a George Mason student to take CPE courses. In fact, there is no formal admissions process for some of our certificates, and you can sign up for several courses within a few days of their start dates.

If you don’t want to take a full certificate program, you can join us for individual courses as they suit your schedule. Most courses do not require prior experience, making George Mason’s programs accessible to everyone.

Discover the rich online learning experiences available exclusively from Virginia’s largest research university.

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Explore CPE’s Versatile Programs

Discover CPE programs that have the power to boost your career. You can pursue a certificate or choose individual courses that showcase your new skills with digital badges. Most of our immersive courses are offered online at your own pace, and several also take place in a live, engaging video format.

Gain IT Skills That Are Crucial to Your Success

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that from 2022 to 2032, computer and information technology occupations will be some of the fastest-growing jobs in the country; on average, 377,500 openings are projected each year throughout the decade.3 Whether you’re new to the IT industry or looking to expand and enhance your IT knowledge, George Mason can help you build your strategic capabilities and take the next step in your career.

Network IT Certificate

Online | 12 Months | $4,095 | 3 Bundles

Prepare for three CompTIA certifications that are ideal for IT professionals. Vouchers are available for three CompTIA Network+ certification exams.

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Work With the Federal Government and Win Contracts

Government contracting centers on producing and delivering goods and/or services under the federal government. To maximize their resources, contractors must consider time, cost, ethics, accounting, and auditing. The programs listed here will provide insight into each of these factors to help prepare you for various contracting positions.

Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Online | Up to 18 Months | $3,499 | 5 Courses

Through an agreement with the Public Contracting Institute (PCI), this program explores negotiation, ethics, compliance, and more.

Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

Online | Up to 18 Months | $3,499 | 5 Courses

Through an agreement with the Public Contracting Institute (PCI), this program examines auditing, pricing, purchasing, and more.

Master’s Academy in Government Contracting Certificate

Online | 9 Days | $1,795 | 1 Course

Over nine days, the master’s academy offers lessons from experienced government contractors. Gain insights that will help you become a better leader.

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Earn and Maintain Your HR Credentials in Career-Focused Programs

Our online HR course offerings can help you build a solid foundation in HR management skills. You’ll be able to solve complex HR issues and qualify for the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) certification.

Offered in partnership with SHRM, our courses cover real-life HR scenarios, including employment law, selecting qualified employees, compensation, the employee performance process, and much more. You will also learn critical information to keep you on track with compliance issues.

SHRM Certification Prep Certificate (Self-guided)

Online | 3–4 Months | $1,340 | 1 Course

Study at your pace and prepare for SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™) certification.

SHRM Certification Prep Certificate (Live)

Online | 3 Months | $1,290 | 1 Course

Instructor-led course sessions prepare you for certification as a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™).

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Foster the Well-Being of Your Colleagues and Community

Leadership is more than being a people person. Confident, capable leaders are needed across every role and industry to help build teams, bolster morale, retain top talent, navigate changes, and contribute to an organization’s bottom line. George Mason University’s leadership and coaching courses are meant for anyone wanting to advance or strengthen their leadership skills.

Leadership Coaching for Organizational Well-Being Certificate (Live)

Hybrid | 5 Months | $12,750 | 5 Modules

This ICF-accredited program helps you facilitate positive change in teams and organizations as you prepare for Level 2 ICF certification.

Leading Thriving Organizations Certificate (Live)

Online | 6 Weeks | $2,850 | 1 Course

In this program built for health care leaders, you’ll learn how the science of well-being applies to your organization and how it impacts success.

Masterful Coaching Course: MCC Coaching Education Certificate

Online | 5 Months | $7,595 | 1 Course

This advanced course helps PCC-credentialed coaches pursue Level 3 ICF Certification while developing the art and skill of masterful coaching.

The Business of Coaching Certificate (Live)

Online | 1 Day | $750 | 1 Course

The Business of Coaching Certificate is a one-day virtual program for executive coaches and consultants.

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Expand Your Opportunities in the Legal Realm

Whether you want to become a paralegal or broaden your skill set in the legal field, George Mason University, in collaboration with the Center for Legal Studies, will help develop your expertise.

These programs teach you about the law, legal ethics, and how to prepare for successful litigation. Plus, you can hone skills that will help further your career. We offer topics in legal investigation, eDiscovery, alternative dispute resolution, software essentials, personal injury, and more.

Paralegal Certificate (Live)

Online | 8 Weeks | $1,895 | 1 Course

This intensive, nationally acclaimed program is designed for beginning and advanced legal workers. Attend via live Zoom sessions.

Paralegal Certificate (Self-guided)

Online | 14 Weeks | $1,895 | 1 Course

This intensive, nationally acclaimed program is designed for beginning and advanced legal workers. Complete the 14-week program at your pace.

Paralegal FLEX (Self-study)

Online | 6 Months | $1,895 | 1 Course

This intensive, nationally acclaimed program is designed for beginning and advanced legal workers. Complete the certificate within six months.

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Optimize Projects as You Steer Them Toward Successful Completion

George Mason University’s Continuing Professional Education (CPE) unit offers a detailed project management curriculum in partnership with the Project Management Institute (PMI). Regardless of your official role within a company, you can improve project outcomes and their value as you work according to PMI Global Standards.

The project management program helps you qualify for the Project Manager Professional (PMP®) exam. It’s the most recognized certification in the industry and tells top employers that you can build business value with excellent project management skills.

Project Management Certificate

Online | 12 Months | $3,226.50 | 3 Courses

The Project Management Certificate program gives you the skills to successfully manage a range of project life cycles in any industry.

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Manage Risk and Support Federal Decision-Making

Enterprise risk management (ERM) is a strategy to identify and prepare for hazards in a company’s finances, operations, and objectives. ERM continues to grow in importance in the federal government.

Earn the RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional for Federal Government (RIMS-CRMP-FED), a credential developed by RIMS, the risk management society, and the Association for Federal Risk Management (AFERM). Add this credential to your professional profile to verify that you have achieved the level of expertise, education, and experience required to successfully manage risk and support decision-making in the federal government environment.

Certified Risk Management Professional for the Federal Government (RIMS-CRMP-FED)

Online | 3 Days | $1,899 | 1 Course

Boost your salary potential. RIMS reports that risk professionals with RIMS-CRMP certification earn nearly $16,000 more per year than those without.5

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Take Part in One of the Fastest-Growing Industries in the Nation

George Mason’s extensive portfolio of IT courses is designed to build your strategic capabilities. Explore specialized courses in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, software and application development, and more.

Certified Artificial Intelligence (AI) Practitioner (CAIP)

Live Online | 5 Days | $3,475

Prepare for the CertNexus® Certified Artificial Intelligence (AI) Practitioner Exam (AIP-110) with a hands-on approach to AI.

CompTIA Server+

Live Online | 5 Days | $2,475

Learn to administer any network server by honing your hardware and support skills. Prepare to take the CompTIA Server+ Exam SKO-005.

AI for Business Professionals (AIBIZ™)

Live Online | 1 Day | $495

In one day, you can learn to apply AI concepts to benefit your business and prepare for the CertNexus® AIBIZTM (Exam AIZ-210) credential.

AWS Certified DevOps Engineer Professional

Live Online | 3 Days | $2,025

Become a DevOps practitioner who can quickly and efficiently set up, run, and maintain distributed application systems on the AWS platform.

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Add Pivotal Tools to Your Government Contracting Resume

Coursework in the Government Contracting series can expand your current skill set, qualifying you to work effectively with the federal government and win contracts. Choose from courses that are most beneficial to your ideal role.

Accounting and Auditing for Government Contracts

Live Online | 3 Days | $755

Related Certificate: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

Learn to navigate the complex details associated with government accounting contracts.

Contract Cost Accounting Deep Dive

Live Online | 4 Days | $755

Related Certificate: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

This high-intensity course addresses common issues to help you understand the ins and outs of government contract cost accounting.

Contracting Changes & Equitable Adjustments

Live Online | 3 Days | $755

Related Certificate: Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

This course focuses on the central role the Changes clause plays in the performance of government contracts.

Contractor Purchasing System Reviews (CPSR)

Live Online | 2 Days | $498

Related Certificate: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

Examine the current CPSR environment, including the challenges and nuances of the pandemic-caused pivot to the virtual CPSR setting.

Contract Pricing and Pricing Fundamentals

Live Online | 2 Days | $498

Related Certificate: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

Examine the principle phases of price and cost analysis, from the initial contract solicitation to the final contract award.

Ethics and Compliance in Government Contracting

Live Online | 2 Days | $498

Related Certificate: Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

This two-day course provides an in-depth understanding of the ethical and compliance rules that apply in the federal government marketplace.

The FAR Workshop: Practical Applications & More

Live Online | 3 Days | $755

Related Certificates: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate, Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Examine the organization, content, policy, and procedures of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) as it applies to Federal acquisition.

Government Contracting Compliance & Cybersecurity

Online | 2 Days | $498

Related Certificate: Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Examine various statutory and regulatory requirements applicable to contractors, including agency specifications and cybersecurity protocol.

Government Contracting Fundamentals

Live Online | 4 Days | $1,195

Related Certificates: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate, Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Gain a comprehensive overview of the federal government contracting process, including applicable procurement laws, regulations, and requirements.

Government Contracting Master’s Academy

Live Online | 5 Days | $1,795

Related Certificate: Master’s Academy in Government Contracting Certificate

Learn from experts who share their insights into the leading practices of government contracting.

Negotiation Strategies and Techniques

Online | 4 Days | $755

Related Certificate: Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Discover the qualities of an effective negotiator, and then explore the negotiation process.

Subcontract Management

Online | 2 Days | $498

Related Certificate: Contract Formation and Administration Certificate

Considering applicable regulations and relevant case law, this course explores numerous over-arching concepts inherent in federal subcontracting.

Timekeeping for Government Contractors

Live Online | 1 Day | $498

Related Certificate: Government Contracting Accounting Certificate

Explore regulatory requirements and expectations related to timekeeping/labor reporting.

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Build a Solid Foundation in HR Management

Offered in partnership with SHRM, our courses cover real-life HR issues, including employment law, selecting qualified employees, compensation, the employee performance process, and much more. You will also learn critical information to keep you on track with compliance issues.

SHRM Certification Prep (Self-guided)

ONLINE | 3–4 MONTHS | $1,340

Related Certificate: SHRM Certification Prep Certificate

Study at your pace and prepare for SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™) certification.

SHRM Certification Prep (Live)

LIVE ONLINE | 3 MONTHS | $1,290

Related Certificate: SHRM Certification Prep Certificate

Live course sessions prepare you for certification as a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™).

SHRM Essentials of Human Resource Management (Self-guided)

Online | 6 Weeks | $740

In partnership with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), this introductory course covers real-life HR issues in a self-guided format.

SHRM Essentials of Human Resource Management (Live)

Online | 21 Hours | $690

Partnering with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), this instructor-led course covers real-life HR issues in live Zoom sessions.

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Deliver Excellent Project Management to Help Your Organization Thrive

In partnership with the Project Management Institute (PMI), this program helps you qualify for the Project Manager Professional (PMP®) exam.

Agile Fundamentals

Live Online | 1 Day | $795

Related Certificate: Project Management Certificate

Explore the values and principles of the Agile Manifesto and the values of key Agile frameworks and methods, including Scrum.

Project Management Certification: PMP® Exam Preparation

Live Online | 1 Day | $1,995

Related Certificate: Project Management Certificate

Offered in partnership with United Training, the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification prep is taught by expert instructors.

Project Management Fundamentals

Live Online | 1 Day | $795

Related Certificate: Project Management Certificate

This 1-day virtual Project Management Best Practices course provides an overview of fundamental elements of the project lifecycle.

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Pursue a Highly Respected Credential for Your Resume

Add value to your federal career path and pursue the Risk Management Society’s Certified Risk Management Professional for Federal Government (RIMS-FED) credential. This impressive credential showcases your skills to employers.

Certified Risk Management Professional for the Federal Government

ONLINE | 3 DAYS | $1,899

Related Certificate: Certified Risk Management Professional for the Federal Government

Boost your salary potential. RIMS reports that risk professionals with RIMS-CRMP certification earn nearly $16,000 more per year than those without.2

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Pursue Advanced Industry Credentials

George Mason’s certificate programs prepare graduates for nationally recognized exams as they bring their experience to roles in nearly every industry. Our certificate programs can help prepare you for the following:

AWS certifications

Cisco CCNA certification

CompTIA A+

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Security+

IFMA Facility Management certification

PMP® exam

RIMS-CRMP-FED credential

SHRM certification

Testimonials

“[This was a] challenging and engaging course. Lots to learn, and it was an easy transition using an online format.”

– Cornelia Hamm, Paralegal student, 2024

“I’ll forever be grateful for being approved to attend this course. It has greatly broadened my perspective on the importance of self-care, being a trauma-informed leader, and how to intelligently talk to leaders about well-being and organizational culture.” 

– Jennifer Starley, Leadership and Coaching student (2024)

“This course exceeded my expectations. My core questions were answered, I learned helpful information and resources, and areas that I was ignorant of were brilliantly illuminated. I feel much more prepared to lead my business. The kinship in the class was superb. Thank you!”

– Tim Little, Leadership and Coaching student (2024)

Showcase Your Knowledge and Boost Your Personal Brand

George Mason University’s CPE offers a variety of digital badges corresponding to our programs and knowledge tracks. You’ll have confidence knowing that your badges are validated by Credly, the world’s largest digital credential network.

Once you complete an eligible program, you’ll receive a digital badge that is linked to a description of the specific skills it represents. The badge is a quick, easy way for potential employers to verify your expertise. Add your badge to your email signature, resume, transcripts, and professional social media.

Join a Growing Network at George Mason University

George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., George Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility.

Gain a High-Quality Education with GMU

With George Mason University Continuing and Professional Education, you can earn credentials in a way that fits your life. Online learning lets you take exceptional classes in a convenient format. There are minimal face-to-face meetings, so students can learn at home, while stationed abroad, or while traveling.

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Sources

  1. Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. “George Mason University.” Retrieved Feb. 14, 2024, from https://carnegieclassifications.acenet.edu/
  2. Times Higher Education. “Young University Rankings 2022.” Retrieved Feb. 14, 2024, from https://timeshighereducation.com/
  3. College Factual. “Top 10 Schools for Non-Traditional Learners.” March 1, 2019. Retrieved Feb. 14, 2024, from https://collegefactual.com/
  4. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Computer and Information Technology Occupations.” Sept. 6, 2023. Retrieved Feb. 14, 2024, from https://bls.gov/
  5. RIMS—the risk management society®. “RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional.” Retrieved Feb. 14, 2024, from https://rims.org/