International Experience

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JS Mill Fellows Program

George Mason's John Stuart Mill Fellows spend a semester at the Free University of Amsterdam (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam or VU). GMU's PPE program has partnered with the John Stuart Mill College for an annual student exchange program. 

Program Details

During their semester in Amsterdam, JSM Fellows study within the JS Mill College's PPE program at the VU. Students pay their ordinary Mason tuition and their coursework is pre-approved to transfer back for credit at Mason. JS Mill Fellows should expect to spend the same, or less, than they spend in a typical semester at Mason (the cost of living in Amsterdam is typically less than that in Fairfax). 

The PPE program at VU has been awarded the “Distinctive feature of small-scale and intensive education” by the the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Council (NVAO). This designation certifies that: it is a small-scale, intensive program with emphases on extra-curricular activities that enhance its academic and professional community; its curriculum is current and socially relevant; it is designed for highly motivated and talented students, and it has stringent entrance requirements. PPE at VU is an international program, and all courses are taught in English.

The PPE model was developed at Oxford and is being implemented at George Mason and the VU. PPE programs combine the traditional fields of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. They have an impressive track record in training students for leadership positions in business, politics, law, academia, journalism, and beyond.  PPE is premised on the idea that today's complex social problems require researchers, policy makers and professionals who can tackle issues from several angles, combine different perspectives in a constructive way, and understand the broader social and historical context of problems.

Travel Grant

Students with financial need (as determined by the Office of Financial Aid) will automatically be considered for a travel grant up to $750. Students will be contacted by their program officer after the application deadline to let them know if they have been selected.

Details and Contact