Study leaves provide paid temporary leave to advance scholarly research, teaching, and/or creative activity, including the development of innovative teaching approaches and methods. At Mason Korea, the Faculty Study Leave allows faculty to be relieved of their teaching responsibilities and focus on professional development and scholarly activities that enhance their contributions to the university’s academic mission.


At the time of application, applicants must be on a multi-year contract, with six (6) or more years of completed service at George Mason University, including time spent at Mason Korea.

A faculty member who receives a study leave must agree to remain a full-time employee of Mason Korea for at least one academic year after the conclusion of the leave.

Leave may be taken during the Spring or Fall semester of each year. Leave may be taken for one semester at full pay. Alternatively, faculty are welcome to take two semesters leave at half pay. The leave schedule must be approved by the Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs and Campus Dean.

The study leave’s benefits include only relief of teaching and service responsibilities during the semester(s) for which the leave is approved. There are no additional benefits that accompany leaves (e.g., no travel funds), although contractual benefits are expected to remain intact.

All faculty members are strongly urged to consult with Human Resources regarding possible contractual employment benefit implications of the study leave (e.g., taxation, insurance) before accepting the leave.