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Schar School of Policy and Government undergraduates have opportunities this fall to learn from a sitting judge, a former governor, an award-winning demographer, and senior Schar School professors in courses that range from technology policy to civil justice to the history of U.S. infrastructure.
Students registering for fall 2025 classes can take the courses no one is talking about—yet. Taught by veteran professors and experienced practitioners, students are exposed to the kind of insider access to ideas, insights, and stories unique to the Schar School thanks to proximity to key institutions in nearby Washington, D.C.
And here’s the best part: Space is still available in all of these courses. The last day to add a class is September 2.
GOVT 150: Introduction to Technology Policy
Mondays and Wednesdays 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: Laurie Schintler
The course introduces the roles of government and industry in the rapid developments in information and communication technology. It presents major issues in technology development and regulation in the United States and around the world. The course also considers the legal, economic, political, sociological, public health, and moral perspectives in examining the worlds of data, networks, and computation. Rate My Professor says: “Take her! She is very willing to help and loves to interact with student and help them with their projects.”
GOVT 319: Reform in Democracies
Monday 4:30 to 7:10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: Ricardo Rosselló
The course is taught by the former governor of Puerto Rico and author of the 2024 book, The Reformer’s Dilemma: And the Need for a Radical Middle. Rosselló was governor from 2017 to 2019 and led the response to Hurricane Maria.
GOVT 329: American Civil Justice
Wednesdays: 1:30 to 4:10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: Kelly Richter
This course offers an in-depth look at the U.S. civil justice system and its impact on American society. Students will explore how courts address issues like civil rights, access to justice, legal ethics, and the evolving role of law in shaping public policy.
Through case studies and class discussion, students will gain a better understanding of how civil justice reflects broader social and political values. Ideal for students interested in law, government, public policy, or advocacy. Hear it from fans! “If you thrive on discussion, policy‑focused analysis, and personalized feedback during office hours, she’s a strong choice.”— Rate My Professor
GOVT 332 – Politics of the Middle East and North Africa
Online | Instructor: Bassam Haddad
This course explores the complex political and socio-economic dynamics of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Students will examine the historical foundations, political systems, and governance structures of key countries, while analyzing contemporary issues such as authoritarianism, economic development, social movements, and international involvement in the region.
Ideal for students interested in international relations, comparative politics, development, or regional studies, this course offers essential context for understanding one of the world’s most strategically significant regions. “If you're genuinely interested in the Middle East, this class is amazing!”—Rate My Professor
GOVT 339 : Demography and Population
Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 1:10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: John May
Demography and population issues are fundamental dimensions of the world, regions, countries, societies, as well as communities in which we live. Demographic patterns and trends exert their influence at different levels, namely global, regional, national, and subnational, including the urban-rural divide. Professor May recently won a Lifetime Achievement Award from Who’s Who!
GOVT 356: Public Budgeting and Finance
Wednesdays 4:30 to 7:10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: Leonard Wales
Gain a “nuts and bolts” understanding of public budgeting: history of budgeting, reforms, processes, revenues, expenditures, debt management, and other political/economic/management factors with an emphasis on local government issues. Dry? Nope: “The professor’s professional background in county government brings the topic to life.”— Coursicle
GOVT 452 – Administrative Law and Procedures
Thursdays | 7:20 to 10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: William Froehlich
This course examines the foundations, powers, and procedures of the U.S. administrative state. Students will explore how federal agencies create and enforce regulations, the legal frameworks governing agency actions, and the role of administrative law in shaping public policy.
Taught by Administrative Judge William Froehlich of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the course brings real-world insights into administrative hearings, regulatory processes, and legal decision-making in high-stakes federal cases.
Ideal for students interested in law, public administration, regulatory affairs, or careers in government. Did you know? Judge Froehlich has been teaching at George Mason since 1978.
GOVT 490 – Infrastructure: Past, Present, Future
Fridays | 10:30 a.m. to 1:10 p.m. | Fairfax Campus
Instructor: Jonathan Gifford
Explore the evolution of infrastructure systems and their critical role in shaping society, the economy, and public policy. This course examines how infrastructure is planned, financed, and governed—both in the United States and internationally—through a blend of historical context, current challenges, and future innovations.
Led by Jonathan Gifford, an expert in infrastructure policy, students will engage with real-world examples from sectors like transportation, energy, and water systems.
Ideal for students interested in public policy, urban planning, engineering, or economic development. Did you know? Professor Gifford is director of the Schar School’s Center for Transportation Public‑Private Partnership Policy.