M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.S. in Public Administration
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Public Administration program. This program prepares students for careers in the public sector, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage public organizations, develop public policy, and address societal challenges. The program covers various aspects of public administration, including public management, budgeting, policy analysis, and intergovernmental relations. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and international institutions.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Public Administration at George Mason University is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in public administration theory and practice. Core courses cover subjects such as public management, organizational behavior, public budgeting, and policy analysis. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose elective courses based on their interests and career goals, such as public policy, urban affairs, nonprofit management, or international development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical decision-making, preparing students to navigate complex challenges in the public sector.
Research Focus: George Mason University has a strong research focus in the field of public administration, with faculty members actively engaged in research projects exploring various aspects of public policy and governance. Research areas include public management, policy implementation, public finance, and organizational theory. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, working alongside faculty mentors to conduct empirical research, analyze data, and contribute to scholarly debates in the field. Through involvement in research projects, students develop research skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of public administration challenges and solutions.
Industry Engagement: The university fosters strong ties with industry partners in the public sector, nonprofit organizations, and international institutions, providing students with numerous opportunities for industry engagement and professional development. Through partnerships with government agencies, internships, and field placements, students gain practical experience working in public organizations, addressing real-world issues, and developing valuable professional skills. Additionally, the university collaborates with nonprofit organizations and international institutions on research projects, policy initiatives, and capacity-building programs, enabling students to engage with diverse stakeholders and gain insights into global public administration practices.
Global Perspective: George Mason University values diversity and promotes a global perspective in its academic programs, including the B.S. in Public Administration program. The university offers a variety of opportunities for students to study public administration from a global perspective. Students have the option to take courses in international public administration, global governance, or comparative public policy, allowing them to explore public administration issues in different cultural, political, and economic contexts. Moreover, the curriculum integrates global perspectives and case studies, ensuring that students graduate with the cross-cultural competence and global awareness required to address the complex challenges facing public administrators in an 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.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Public Administration program at George Mason University are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue diverse career opportunities in the public sector, nonprofit organizations, and international institutions.
Public Administrator: A common career path for graduates is becoming a Public Administrator. Public administrators work for government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, managing public programs, overseeing budgets, and implementing policies. They may work in areas such as healthcare administration, public safety, urban planning, or environmental management, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of public services to citizens.
Policy Analyst: Graduates may also pursue careers as Policy Analysts. Policy analysts work for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions, analyzing public policy issues, evaluating potential solutions, and making recommendations to policymakers. They conduct research, collect data, and assess the impact of policies on society, economy, and environment, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and policy formulation.
Nonprofit Manager: Another career option is in the nonprofit sector. Graduates can work as Nonprofit Managers, overseeing the operations of nonprofit organizations that address social, environmental, or community needs. Nonprofit managers handle fundraising, budgeting, program development, and stakeholder relations, ensuring that the organization achieves its mission and serves its target population effectively.
International Development Specialist: Graduates may also pursue careers in international development. International development specialists work for international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or government agencies, designing and implementing development projects in areas such as poverty reduction, education, healthcare, or humanitarian aid. They collaborate with local communities, governments, and donors to promote sustainable development and improve living conditions in developing countries.
Community Outreach Coordinator: Another career option is becoming a Community Outreach Coordinator. Community outreach coordinators work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or advocacy groups, developing outreach programs, engaging with community members, and addressing community needs. They organize events, facilitate communication, and build partnerships with stakeholders to promote civic engagement, social justice, and community development.
Public Relations Specialist: Graduates may also pursue careers in public relations. Public relations specialists work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or consulting firms, managing communication strategies, building public awareness, and shaping public opinion on issues of public interest. They create press releases, organize media events, and engage with journalists, policymakers, and the public to convey key messages and promote organizational objectives.
