Founded in 1972 as the International School of Law, the law school became a part of George Mason University in 1979. It is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS). During the past decade, the law school has been in the forefront of curricular innovation. Recognizing the rapid changes that are occurring in legal practice and profession, George Mason has pioneered three core competencies–often neglected at more traditional institutions–for its students: (1) specialized substantive preparation for practice; (2) intensive development of legal writing and research skills; and (3) the legal application of economic tools and methods. Our demanding curriculum offers students unique advantages in today's competitive employment market.