Debate teaches you to think. It teaches research, organization, critical analysis of information and presence of mind while speaking in public. It prepares students for success by emphasizing skills that no other activity offers, skills that are essential for career development and personal attainment. Debaters frequently rise to the top of their selected field, because of their experience in grasping contemporary issues, organizing complex material, and defending their ideas in competitive situations.

Why debate at GMU?

GMU is pleased to offer its students the opportunity to debate in one of the highest quality programs in the nation. Mason Debate provides GMU students–regardless of previous experience, the opportunity to travel and compete at appropriate levels of competition. Academic credit is available for participation on the debate team. Debaters who make a commitment to being on the team will doubtless find that they will get out of debate what they put into it.

How much work is involved?

Students with minimal experience should expect to spend about eight-to-ten hours per week working on debate. This includes squad meetings, practice debates, and research. Travel time is additional, and usually involves three-to-five weekends per semester. Debaters are students first and debaters second; the coaching staff works to maintain this policy. Debate has proven to provide significant benefits both personally and financially to those students who spend the time to learn to debate.

How do I join?

Any full-time undergraduate student willing to research, travel, and compete can be on the team. (Graduate students are eligible if they have never debated previously.) Mason Debate prides itself in taking inexperienced debaters and creating winners. Of course, if you are an experienced debater, we would love for you to join the team as well! To join, simply contact us (please see our contact list) to make an appointment with Dr. Decker. He will be able to answer your questions in detail, as well as ensure that you are placed in the correct category of competition.