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Students pursuing this certificate will explore the transformative potential of AI to design inclusive learning experiences, streamline professional workflows, and lead the ethical integration of emerging technologies across the educational landscape.
The 15-credit AITL graduate certificate prepares educators to become effective leaders in AI integration and to critically navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in education. Participants develop the expertise to evaluate how AI impacts student learning, academic integrity, and educational equity while assuming leadership roles in the safe and ethical implementation of these tools.
The graduate certificate focuses on pedagogical theory, generative technologies, and inclusive design to influence instructional practices that promote students’ AI literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Courses emphasize the design of AI-supported instructional materials that address diverse student needs and model the legal, ethical, and secure use of emerging technologies.
The courses in this graduate certificate are offered in a fully online format.
Students interested in a fall 2026 start should apply as a non-degree student. Please email astl@gmu.edu with questions.
What Will Educators Be Prepared To Do?
In the AITL graduate certificate, educators from across disciplines and contexts will be prepared to critically evaluate and integrate artificial intelligence into their practice. You will develop the skills to design AI-supported learning experiences that are accessible and equitable while navigating complex issues related to academic integrity and data privacy.
Beyond the classroom, you will be equipped to serve as a strategic leader and advocate, guiding schools and districts through the ethical implementation of generative tools. By the end of the program, you will be ready to model the safe, legal, and innovative use of AI to enhance student learning and foster future-ready literacy.
How Do I Know if this Certificate is Right for Me?
This program is designed for forward-thinking educators and professionals who are ready to move beyond the headlines and explore the real-world potential of AI. You’ll thrive in this certificate if:
- You are an educator at any level and want to integrate AI intentionally into your practice.
- You want to lead, not just follow. You are looking to become the "go-to" expert in your organization for the ethical, safe, and innovative use of generative tools.
- You care about equity. You want to ensure that as technology evolves, it’s used to make learning more accessible and inclusive for all students.
- You’re looking for practical, "day-one" strategies. You want to streamline your own work, so you can focus more on the human side of teaching.
- You value flexibility. You need a fully online program that fits into your professional life while connecting you with a community of innovative peers.
Fall Semester
(classes starting in August) |
Spring Semester
(classes starting in January) |
Summer Semester
(classes starting in May, June, or July) |
Priority*: April 1
Space Available: August 17 |
Priority*: November 1
Space Available: January 9 |
Priority*: February 1
Space Available: May 1 |
For more information and to apply, visit the admissions website.
* Priority deadline ensures consideration for the intended semester as well as financial aid options for students. Programs will continue to review applications until at capacity. Some programs do not review applications past the priority deadline.
All application materials must be submitted through George Mason’s online graduate application. In addition to meeting general university admissions requirements, applicants will need to provide the requirements below.
To be considered for graduate studies, the following items are evaluated during the admission review process:
- Graduate application and fee
- 750- to 1,000-word written statement of your goals and interest in the program
- Current resume
- Two letters of recommendation: Applicants should follow the instructions included in the online application to submit the recommendation forms directly to their recommenders. Mason does not accept paper recommendations. Recommendations should be professional or academic in nature.
- Transcripts from all previous institutions attended in the United States. Please refer to the Office of Graduate Admissions information page for specific requirements regarding uploading unofficial transcripts.
- Applicants with transcripts from institutions outside of the United States could have additional requirements. Please refer to the How To Apply page for specific requirements about submitting international transcripts, evaluations, and English language proficiency.
Admission to graduate programs at George Mason University is competitive. Applicants are evaluated on the strength of their academic backgrounds, results of standardized exams (if required by the program), work experience, and any additional evidence of potential success in the program. Faculty admissions review is a holistic review of requirements as well as the applicant’s potential academic and professional success upon completion of the program.
At a minimum all admitted students must have:
- An earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, or international equivalent, verified from official transcripts. Expectation of an earned baccalaureate prior to the first day of classes for the term for which the student is applying will also meet this requirement. See the graduate admissions policy for more information.
- A minimum 3.00 GPA on a 4.00 scale in baccalaureate study. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA are encouraged to apply, addressing previous academic challenges and highlighting evidence for future success in their goal statement.
- International students should reference Admission of International Students for additional requirements.
| TUITION CLASSIFICATION |
COST PER CREDIT |
| Virginia Resident |
$752.50
(includes MSF*) |
| Non-Virginia Resident |
$952.50
(includes MSF*; discounted from $1,641.50) |
| VA Resident and PK-12 VA Educator enrolled in a CEHD graduate program** |
$640.00
(includes MSF*) |
| CEHD Course Fee |
$25 - $84 |
| Total Cost for Virginia Residents per Credit |
$777.50 - $836.50 |
| Total Cost for Non-Virginia Residents per Credit |
$977.50 - $1036.50 |
| Total cost for VA Resident and PK-12 VA Educator enrolled in a CEHD graduate program** |
$665.00 - $724.00 |
Graduate New Student Fee
(non-refundable, one-time fee) |
$60 |
Please Note: Refer to the Students Accounts Office website for more information on tuition and fees. Internship courses will incur a higher course fee to fund on-site assistance involving intensive clinical training/supervision.
*Mandatory Student Fee (MSF): $163.50
**VA state residents who are eligible must apply for the 15% PreK-16 VA Educators Discount in order to take advantage of the lower tuition. Eligible students receive 15% off the total tuition and mandatory student fee.
For information on loans and scholarships, visit the Office of Student Financial Aid. For information regarding grants, tuition waivers, and other merit aid, please inquire with your graduate department. Also, many school districts offer tuition reimbursement options. Speak to your employer for more information.
Academic Advisor: Dr. Jered Borup
ASTL Academic Advisors guide students through their program of study. After admission, reach out to your advisor, Dr. Jered Borup, to plan your program of study and for your first course! Stay in touch with your advisor each semester to consult on your course selection and program progress.
Coordinator of Student Services: Marie Champagne
Our Coordinator of Student Services provides administrative support for all ASTL students. Reach out to Marie Champagne for guidance on university policies or to ensure you are on track to complete your program.
Nancy Holincheck
Academic Program Coordinator
Jered Borup
Stephanie Dodman