M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.S. in Business - Financial Planning
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
George Mason University (GMU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Business - Financial Planning program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the financial services industry. This program provides students with a solid foundation in financial principles, investment strategies, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, hands-on learning experiences, and industry-relevant certifications, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to become competent and ethical financial planners.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S. in Business - Financial Planning program at GMU is carefully crafted to cover all aspects of financial planning, including personal financial management, risk management, investment planning, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning. Core courses provide students with a strong understanding of financial theory and practice, while elective courses allow students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Additionally, the program emphasizes practical application through case studies, simulations, and internships, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of real-world financial planning.
Research Focus: GMU's Financial Planning program is supported by a faculty of experienced professionals who are actively engaged in research and scholarship in the field of financial planning. Faculty members conduct research on topics such as retirement savings behavior, investment decision-making, tax policy, and behavioral finance, contributing to the body of knowledge in financial planning and informing best practices in the industry. Students have the opportunity to participate in faculty-led research projects, gaining valuable insights and research experience that enhances their academic and professional development.
Industry Engagement: GMU fosters strong ties with the financial services industry, providing students in the Financial Planning program with numerous opportunities for industry engagement and networking. The university collaborates with leading financial planning firms, wealth management firms, insurance companies, and financial advisory firms to offer internships, mentorship programs, and guest lectures featuring industry professionals. Additionally, GMU's location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area provides students with access to a vibrant financial services ecosystem, including regulatory agencies, trade associations, and professional organizations.
Global Perspective: As a globally-minded institution, GMU emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in the practice of financial planning. The curriculum includes coursework on international finance, cross-border taxation, and global wealth management to prepare students for careers in an increasingly interconnected world. GMU also offers study abroad programs, international internships, and research collaborations with institutions around the world, providing students with opportunities to gain global experience and cultural competence that enriches their understanding of financial planning in diverse contexts.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 39170
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: Waiver
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 59 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
George Mason University recognizes the importance of making higher education accessible to a diverse range of students, including international students. As such, the university offers a variety of scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and support the academic pursuits of international students.
Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based award available to incoming international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic achievement, leadership skills, and contributions to the community. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Many of George Mason University's colleges and academic departments offer scholarships to international students who excel in specific fields of study. These scholarships may require students to meet certain academic criteria and demonstrate a strong their chosen area of study.
Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students at George Mason University have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide funding for tuition and stipends for work as research or teaching assistants. These assistantships offer valuable hands-on experience while helping to offset educational costs.
International Baccalaureate Scholarships: International students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program may be eligible for scholarships based on their IB scores and academic achievements. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Private Scholarships: George Mason University encourages international students to explore private scholarship opportunities from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students find and apply for these scholarships.
Fullbright Scholarships: International students seeking advanced degrees may be eligible to apply for the prestigious Fullbright scholarship program, which provides funding for graduate study, research, and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.
Graduates of George Mason University's Bachelor of Science in Business - Financial Planning program are well-equipped to pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in the financial services industry. With a strong foundation in financial planning principles, investment strategies, and ethical practices, students are prepared to assist individuals and families in achieving their financial goals.
Financial Planner: Financial planners work closely with individuals and families to develop personalized financial plans tailored to their unique needs and objectives. They assess clients' financial situations, analyze their goals and risk tolerance, and recommend strategies for wealth accumulation, retirement planning, education funding, tax optimization, and estate planning.
Wealth Manager: Wealth managers provide comprehensive financial services to high-net-worth individuals, families, and businesses. They offer investment management, financial planning, estate planning, tax planning, and risk management services, helping clients grow and preserve their wealth over the long term while navigating complex financial landscapes.
Investment Advisor: Investment advisors offer advice and guidance on investment strategies, asset allocation, and portfolio management to individual and institutional clients. They assess clients' investment objectives and risk profiles, recommend suitable investment products, and monitor portfolio performance to help clients achieve their financial goals.
Retirement Planner: Retirement planners specialize in helping clients plan for a financially secure retirement. They assist clients in setting retirement goals, estimating retirement income needs, optimizing retirement savings strategies, and navigating retirement plan options such as 401(k) plans, IRAs, and pension plans.
Estate Planner: Estate planners focus on helping clients protect and transfer their assets to future generations while minimizing taxes and ensuring their wishes are carried out. They develop estate plans, draft wills and trusts, facilitate estate administration, and provide guidance on legacy planning and charitable giving.
Insurance Advisor: Insurance advisors assist clients in assessing their insurance needs and selecting appropriate insurance products to manage risk and protect their financial well-being. They offer advice on life insurance, health insurance, disability insurance, long-term care insurance, and other insurance products tailored to clients' needs and circumstances.
Financial Educator: Financial educators work in academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and government agencies to provide financial literacy education and resources to individuals and communities. They develop and deliver workshops, seminars, and educational materials on topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and financial planning.
