George Mason University has launched Mason Career Academy, a new online learning resource that is free for current students, faculty, and staff to develop new skills, and is available to displaced workers, including federal workers and contractors in the region, for a small registration fee. Mason Career Academy offers access to more than 90 online micro-credential courses and industry-recognized certifications in fields, such as data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, and information technology (IT) support.
Designed with flexibility and powered by Coursera, the on-demand self-paced courses allow students to complement their college degrees with additional credentials sought by employers in order to stay ahead of the curve.
“Lifelong learning is a goal we all share at George Mason, not just for our students, but for ourselves and our teams,” said George Mason President Gregory Washington. “As students enter a dynamic and evolving workforce that values adaptability, digital fluency, and industry-specific expertise, Mason Career Academy is one of many resources we offer to help them remain competitive—not just for their first job after graduation, but throughout their careers. We hope this resource also supports our alumni and those in the region who may need extra support right now.”
According to recent survey conducted by the online learning platform Coursera, 92% of employers say graduates with these credentials bring job-ready skills from day one.
Along with technical training, the platform also includes professional development tools that help sharpen skills in resume writing, interviewing, and job readiness. Courses are taught by instructors from top companies and institutions, and completed credentials can be added directly to resumes or LinkedIn profiles.
George Mason is also supporting more than 120,000 recently displaced workers, including federal employees and contractors, through a range of resources featured in the Displaced Workers Support page. Among these is Mason Career Academy, offered through Mason's Continuing and Professional Education program. For a one-time $20 registration fee, users gain affordable access to flexible courses designed to help them reskill, continue their education, or explore new career paths. In addition, the university is waiving application fees for select degree programs and offering complimentary tickets to arts performances and athletics events.