Become the future of business with an MBA from the Costello College of Business at George Mason University.
A Costello Flex MBA equips you with diverse skills and a global perspective, preparing you to lead in the new era of business.
The Flex MBA program at the Costello College of Business at George Mason University offers an innovative curriculum that transcends traditional learning and delivers a dynamic educational experience crafted by the real-world insights of seasoned faculty and experienced peers. Located just outside Washington, D.C., the epicenter of business and policy, the Costello College of Business offers working professionals a competitive edge through a customizable MBA curriculum, in-person and online options, and a global immersive experience. The Costello Flex MBA program's unique approach to student outcomes supports industry transitions, network growth, and entrepreneurship. Equip yourself with essential data-driven decision-making and leadership skills for personal and career development, while investing in your future.
"Without my MBA, I wouldn’t have this job...the concepts that I was learning in project management are ones that I have been able to apply directly into my current role."
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See Lauren's full journey.
Request More Information
To learn more about the Flex MBA program, submit the form below. To learn about the 100% online MBA program, click here.
Curriculum and the Student Experience
The Costello Flex MBA program requires 48 credits: 30 credits of core courses, 15 credits of elective courses and a three-credit global selective. Courses are delivered over eight-week sessions, with two sessions each semester. Each in-person course meets one evening, from 7:20-10:00 pm, per week.
Flexible scheduling allows students to pursue the full MBA experience while working full-time, with options to finish in 16 months or extend to four years.
The Costello MBA empowers students to align their education with their professional goals through a comprehensive selection of rotating electives and special-topic courses in emerging business and leadership issues.
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on program requirements and courses. Requirements may be different for previous catalog years.
The Costello MBA student experience is built on three pillars: experiential learning, stackable credentials, and opportunities for personal and professional growth that extend beyond the classroom.
To enrich learning beyond textbooks and lectures, our faculty, comprising esteemed researchers, business leaders, and industry experts, integrate case studies, simulations, group projects, role-playing, and guest speakers to connect theory with practice. This experiential approach prepares students to apply their skills and knowledge with agility and confidence throughout their careers.
Through MBA electives, students can enhance their degree by earning stackable credentials such as a specialized graduate certificate or a Credly-verified Digital Badge.
The graduate certificates available to our MBA students reflect the evolving needs of business and the strengths of our faculty. These optional credentials allow students to deepen their expertise in high-demand disciplines while earning their MBA, providing a competitive edge in today’s dynamic marketplace. Our current Graduate Certificates include:
The Costello MBA and Centers of Excellence have partnered to offer Credly-verified Digital Badges in Government Contracting and Sustainable Entrepreneurship. A digital badge is an online credential that verifies the completion of specific professional skills or knowledge. It is easily shareable on résumés or LinkedIn and trusted by employers.
Beyond The Classroom
Leadership Coaching
Beyond the classroom, Costello MBA students can gain access to personalized leadership coaching, at no additional cost, through the George Mason University Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. In this transformative experience, MBA students receive one-on-one coaching over several months; through a supportive, strengths-based approach they refine their leadership style, learn how to navigate challenges, and accelerate both their personal and professional growth. This coaching opportunity empowers students to step into their next chapter with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
Executive Mentoring Program
The Executive Mentoring Program connects exceptional MBA students with accomplished C-suite business professionals, all of whom are Costello or George Mason University alumni. Mentors and mentees are matched at the start of each calendar year and meet regularly throughout the spring semester. These one-on-one relationships provide students with invaluable insights, access to professional networks, and personalized guidance to support their leadership development and career growth.
Global Residency Selective
The Global Residency Selective offers students the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a dynamic international setting. Guided by faculty, students work on cross-cultural, applied business projects in collaboration with global companies and partner universities, meet with international leaders, and gain first-hand exposure to global markets and business practices. Past residencies have travelled to Chile, China, Japan, Singapore, Greece, Dubai, and South Africa. Tuition includes in-country accommodations, ground transportation, and most meals.
The Costello College of Business Centers of Excellence
The Costello College of Business Centers of Excellence provide students the opportunity to connect academic study with practice through industry engagement, applied research, and experiential learning. The Centers include the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting, the first of its kind in the nation, along with the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Center for Real Estate Entrepreneurship, and the Center for Retail Transformation.
Alumni Networking
Costello MBA students become part of a thriving network of nearly 40,000 alumni who are making a significant impact on both the local and national economy. Costello alumni are more than just successful professionals – they are valuable resources for current students, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into various industries. Costello MBA students can engage with this dynamic alumni network through the Costello Alumni Chapter, which organizes events including the Annual Business Celebration and the Alumni in the Industry Networking Series. These interactions often open doors to future career advancements. Our alumni are committed to celebrating and supporting the next generation of business leaders, and Costello MBA students have the opportunity to benefit from their experience, knowledge, and connections.
Career Services
The Office of Career Services within the Costello College of Business is dedicated to advancing the career development of our MBA students. Costello Career Advisors utilize cutting-edge technology and career counseling best practices to offer personalized career advising, job search support, and coaching specifically tailored to experienced, graduate-level professionals. From preparing for interviews to negotiating salaries and everything in between, the team provides expert guidance and support to help Costello MBA students achieve their career goals.
Meet Your Instructors
Our faculty members bring both theoretical and applied expertise to the classroom, and have an international reputation for their thought leadership in interdisciplinary focus areas such as ensuring global futures, the digital transformation of work, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Their work finds applications in industries such as government contracting, information technology, retail, real estate, consulting, and more, and they are often quoted both in the popular and business press.
See all MBA Faculty
What Our Alumni are Saying
"The [MBA] program has proven to be transformative, not only academically but also in fostering crucial connections. My Global Residency . . . led to a series of events where I secured a consultancy opportunity and created my own LLC in Washington, D.C. My success story underscores the program's commitment to networking, showcasing the practical impact and real opportunities it provides."
Guillermo Palencia, MBA ‘23
"I took what I learned from George Mason, both the soft and hard skills, and I’m able to apply it in my day-to-day interactions and my work. One of the best parts for me was the size of the classes. I was able to bond with my peers, and the professors were available for interaction."
Sree Kancherla, global director of sustainability at Kearney, MBA ‘22
"The Mason faculty is invested in your success . . . each of my instructors made themselves available to me, and they try to get to know you better as a person. In this environment, you are going to grow as a business leader."
Doug Chapman, vice president of operations at CoreSys Consulting Services, LLC, MBA ‘22 and 2022 MBA Outstanding Student of the Year
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have additional questions, call us at (703) 993-8006.
How much work experience do I need before I can apply?
Costello Flex MBA program applicants are required to have a minimum of two years of post-undergraduate work experience.
What does GMAT/GRE/EA test-optional mean?
Under our test-optional policy, applicants are not required to submit their GMAT/GRE/EA test scores or request a waiver. This means that our admissions committee will base their decision on an applicant's previous academic performance, personal statement, recommendations, and resume.
If you would like to submit a GMAT/GRE/EA test score with your application, we invite you to do so. Applicants are not penalized in the application review process for electing not to submit a test score. To learn more about the test options, please visit Standardized Testing.
If you elect to not submit your test scores:
In your graduate application, you will be asked “Would you like to submit your official GRE/GMAT/EA test scores to be considered as part of your admissions decision?”. Select “No”. The question will be under the “GRE/GMAT/EA Waiver Request” section.
Are there any situations in which it might be beneficial to submit a GMAT/GRE/EA test score?
Yes, while not required, a GMAT/GRE/EA test score may enhance your application package and provide evidence of your quantitative aptitude.
If you elect to submit your test scores:
In your graduate application, you will be asked “Would you like to submit your official GRE/GMAT/EA test scores to be considered as part of your admissions decision?”. Select “Yes”. The question will be under the “GRE/GMAT/EA Waiver Request” section. Your application portal will be updated to include the GMAT/GRE/EA test as a requirement.
To learn more about the test options, please visit Standardized Testing.
Is the Costello Flex MBA program STEM-designated?
No, the Costello Flex MBA is not a STEM-designated program. Graduating Costello Flex MBA students on an F-1 visa can be eligible for up to 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, students can make their MBA into a STEM-designated program by pursuing a dual master’s degree in one of our STEM-designated programs. With this STEM designation, F-1 students can extend their OPT period by up to 24 months or the equivalent amount of CPT. For information regarding individualized dual master’s degree programs of study, please contact the Graduate Admission Team.
Do I need an undergraduate business degree to be admitted?
No. Applicants come from a variety of backgrounds, but all applicants are required to hold a degree from an institution of higher education accredited by a George Mason-recognized U.S. institutional accrediting agency or international equivalent.
If you don't have a business undergraduate degree or background, this will not hurt your chances in the admissions process or your success in the program.
What's the difference between Mason's on-campus and online MBA programs?
The Costello College of Business offers both on-campus and online options for its MBA program.
While the delivery format is different, the course content, instructors, objectives, evaluation methods, and outcomes for both programs are identical.
Which program is right for you? Explore the differences:
| On-Campus Costello Flex MBA | Online MBA | |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited for: | Students who live or work in the Washington, D.C. metro area and want face-to-face interaction with faculty and classmates | Students who live outside the Washington, D.C. Metro area and do not want to relocate and/or students who require the flexibility of a fully online program |
| Location: | Arlington or Fairfax Campuses | Fully online |
| Class time: | Evenings | Asynchronous |
| Program start term: | Fall, Spring | Fall, Spring, or Summer |
| Program length: | As few as 20 months or as long as five years | 33 months (possible to complete in two years with accelerated option) |
Learn more about the MBA program's application requirements and tuition and financial aid.
When are classes offered?
On-campus Costello Flex MBA classes are in the evenings. Core classes are generally offered from 7:20 to 10 p.m.
Online MBA classes are offered in an online asynchronous format.
Can students work while attending classes?
Yes. The Costello Flex MBA program is designed to fit your career, educational aspirations, and lifestyle. It’s a perfect program for working professionals.
Where are Costello Flex MBA graduates employed?
Our graduates have found professional success at top companies such as:
- Capital One
- World Bank Group
- Hilton
- Marriot International
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Deloitte
- Northrop Grumman
- CACI International Inc
- Freddie Mac
- Fannie Mae
- The Motley Fool
- General Dynamics Information Technology
- Leidos
- Wells Fargo
- Inova Health Systems
- Boeing
- Nestle
- Navy Federal Credit Union
Can I connect with current Costello Flex MBA students?
Upon admission, you will have the opportunity to connect with our student ambassadors to learn more about the Costello MBA student experience and schedule a class tour.
Is the Costello College of Business accredited?
Yes. The Costello College of Business is fully accredited by AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) International, and is one of only 189 schools in the world with business and accounting programs fully accredited by AACSB International.
In addition, the Costello College of Business is both a signatory and a champion of the PRME (Principles of Responsible Management Education), the United Nations’ initiative aimed at promoting responsibility and sustainability through business and management curricula.
What will I learn?
After earning your MBA from the Costello College of Business, you’ll understand:
- Collaborative Communication and Leadership
- Demonstrate teamwork skills to form and lead effective organizational teams
- Develop interpersonal and leadership skills to form, lead and work effectively within diverse organizations.
- Effectively utilize both written and verbal communication skills.
- Knowledge of Functional Business Disciplines:
- Identify and represent knowledge of all core functional areas of business and an ability to integrate them into a meaningful firm level perspective.
- Analytical Decision Making:
- Demonstrate the ability to analyze uncertain complex management situations using appropriate tools, techniques and information systems for decision-making.
- Contemporary Issues in Business:
- Exhibit knowledge of ethical decision making considerations, corporate social responsibility and sustainability practices.
- Identify relevant economic, political, and social factors that impact business conducted both within and across national boundaries.
News from the Costello MBA Program
- January 28, 2026
- January 21, 2026
- January 9, 2026
- December 15, 2025
- December 12, 2025