M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.A. in Geography
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Geography program. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's physical and human landscapes, spatial analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS). It explores various topics such as environmental geography, urban planning, cultural geography, and remote sensing. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, cartography, geographic information science, and international development.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Geography at George Mason University is designed to cover a broad range of topics relevant to the field of geography. Core courses include subjects such as physical geography, human geography, GIS fundamentals, and geographic research methods. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests and career goals, such as climatology, transportation geography, urban geography, or conservation geography. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, fieldwork, and GIS applications, preparing students to analyze spatial patterns, interpret geographic data, and address real-world challenges.
Research Focus: George Mason University has a strong research focus in the field of geography, with faculty members actively engaged in research projects exploring various aspects of environmental sustainability, urbanization, social justice, and global change. Research areas include land use and land cover change, geographic information science, remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and sustainability planning. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, working alongside faculty mentors to conduct field studies, analyze data, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Through involvement in research projects, students develop research skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of geographic concepts and methodologies.
Industry Engagement: The university fosters strong ties with industry partners in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, GIS consulting, and international development, providing students with numerous opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Through partnerships with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private companies, students gain access to internships, fieldwork opportunities, networking events, and guest lectures. These industry connections enable students to gain practical experience, build professional relationships, and gain insights into career pathways in the field of geography. Additionally, the university's career services center offers support in career exploration, resume building, job search strategies, and interview preparation, helping students secure internships and entry-level positions in their chosen field.
Global Perspective: George Mason University values diversity and promotes a global perspective in its academic programs, including the B.A. in Geography program. The university offers a variety of opportunities for students to study global issues and engage with diverse cultures. Students have the option to take courses in international geography, geopolitics, or global environmental issues, allowing them to explore geographic phenomena from a global perspective. Moreover, the curriculum integrates global issues and case studies, ensuring that students graduate with the cross-cultural competence and global awareness required to address the complex challenges facing our interconnected world.
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.
George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Geography program, providing graduates with a diverse array of career opportunities in various sectors, including environmental management, urban planning, cartography, geographic information science, and international development.
Environmental Manager: One of the most common career paths for graduates with a B.A. in Geography is becoming an Environmental Manager. Environmental Managers work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private companies, overseeing environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives. They develop and implement environmental policies, conduct environmental impact assessments, and coordinate conservation projects to protect natural resources and mitigate environmental degradation.
Urban Planner: Graduates may also pursue careers as Urban Planners. Urban Planners work for local governments, planning agencies, or consulting firms, developing land use plans and zoning regulations to guide urban development. They assess community needs, analyze demographic trends, and collaborate with stakeholders to create sustainable and resilient cities. Urban Planners address issues such as affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, and environmental quality to promote livable and inclusive communities.
GIS Specialist: Another career option for graduates is becoming a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist. GIS Specialists work for government agencies, engineering firms, or research institutions, using GIS technology to analyze spatial data and create maps for various applications. They collect and manage geographic data, perform spatial analysis, and develop GIS databases and applications. GIS Specialists play a crucial role in decision-making processes in fields such as urban planning, natural resource management, and emergency response.
Cartographer: Graduates may also pursue careers as Cartographers. Cartographers work for mapmaking companies, government agencies, or educational institutions, creating maps and visual representations of geographic information. They use cartographic principles and GIS technology to design maps that communicate spatial relationships, geographic features, and thematic information. Cartographers may specialize in areas such as topographic mapping, thematic mapping, or digital cartography.
International Development Specialist: Another career option is in the field of international development. Graduates can work for international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies, addressing global challenges such as poverty alleviation, food security, and sustainable development. They may work on projects related to disaster relief, community development, or capacity building in developing countries. International Development Specialists collaborate with local communities, governments, and stakeholders to implement programs that promote social, economic, and environmental well-being.
