Are there ways I can participate in CVPA without majoring?
Every student at George Mason University has a Core Arts requirement. The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) has many courses that are open to all students and a large number of classes that fulfill the Core Arts requirement, including Arts, Global Contexts, ENCORE: Well-being, and more. Other courses may be taken as electives.
There are more than 65 different courses in the visual and performing arts to choose from in the catalog or Patriot Web, including:
- AVT 253 – Digital Photography
- DANC 118 – Global Dance
- FAVS 260 – Video Editing for Film
- GAME 101 – Introduction to Computer Game Design
- MUSI 280 – Athletic and Ceremonial Ensemble (Green Machine)*
- THR 210 – Acting I
- AMGT 405 - Introduction to Arts Management
* one credit hour
See full list of classes for the core arts requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate in a music ensemble without majoring in Music?
- YES. Vocal and instrumental ensembles are open to all George Mason students regardless of major. Plan to participate in seating placement auditions during the first week of each semester.
- You can also consider a minor in Music
Can I audition for a play?
YES. All Theater performances are open for audition to all George Mason University students regardless of major. Plan to participate in unified auditions during the first week of each semester.
I'm not a dancer, can I take a dance class?
YES. If you've always wanted to try dance but have been too intimidated, now is your chance! From Ballet and Dance Appreciation classes to Beginning Jazz Technique and Dance in Popular Culture, there is something for everyone to appreciate at the School of Dance.
Can I act in a movie or be on a production team?
YES. As a non-film major, you can participate in a film production and/or act in a film.
I can't draw a straight line, can I take an art class?
YES, and School of Art classes are not limited to drawing or painting but encompass so much more. You can take a class in calligraphy, woodworking, digital printmaking, 3D Design, photography, or even EcoArt.
I love gaming in my spare time, but can I learn more about its origins?
YES. Take a class in Introduction to Computer Game Design or History of Computer Game Design to deepen your knowledge of a part-time passion.
I like the arts but have more of an administrator's mind. What else is there for me at CVPA?
Complement your non-arts major and widen your horizons by taking a class from the Arts Management program such as Grant Writing or Technology in the Arts.
I think I want to be a CVPA major, but I’m interested in more than one creative area.
Students are welcome to email or schedule a Navigate appointment with any of the CVPA advisors to discuss what the programs entail.
Find out how CVPA majors gain real-world experience while studying at George Mason.
Events and Tickets
Remember you are welcome at any performances at the Center for the Arts (CFA) and the HyltonPerforming Arts Center (Sci-Tech campus) – Tickets are free for students.
- See the College of Visual and Performing Arts event calendar
- Find out how to get free student tickets. (Reserve through Mason 360)
Header image: George Mason School of Theater students in The Originals!, September 2024. Photo by D.J. Corey Photography, © 2024