M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
B.S. in Geology
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
George Mason University (GMU) offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geology program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Earth's processes, history, and resources. The program integrates classroom instruction with fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and research experiences to prepare students for careers in geoscience, environmental consulting, natural resource exploration, and related fields.
STEM Designated: The B.S. in Geology program at GMU is STEM designated, emphasizing its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This designation underscores the program's commitment to providing students with a rigorous education in STEM fields, preparing them for careers in geology, earth sciences, and related disciplines.
Curriculum: The curriculum of GMU's B.S. in Geology program covers a wide range of topics, including mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, sedimentology, hydrogeology, and environmental geology. Courses emphasize hands-on learning experiences, fieldwork, and laboratory analysis to provide students with practical skills in geological mapping, rock and mineral identification, geophysical techniques, and geographic information systems (GIS). Students may also have opportunities to pursue electives in specialized areas such as volcanology, paleontology, geochemistry, and planetary geology.
Research Focus: Research is a central component of the B.S. in Geology program at GMU, with faculty and students engaged in interdisciplinary research projects addressing geological processes, environmental issues, and resource exploration. Research areas may include but are not limited to, climate change impacts, groundwater contamination, geological hazards, mineral exploration, and energy resources. Students have opportunities to participate in research initiatives, field studies, and laboratory projects, working alongside faculty mentors to contribute to scientific knowledge and geological understanding.
Industry Engagement: GMU's B.S. in Geology program emphasizes industry engagement to ensure that students gain practical skills and real-world experience relevant to geology-related careers. The program collaborates with government agencies, environmental consulting firms, mining companies, and geological surveys to provide students with internships, fieldwork opportunities, and industry-sponsored projects. Through industry engagement, students gain insights into geological exploration, resource management, environmental remediation, and regulatory compliance, as well as opportunities to network with professionals in the field.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected world, GMU's B.S. in Geology program encourages students to develop a global perspective on geological processes, environmental challenges, and natural resource management. Students explore the geological history and diversity of Earth's landscapes, as well as the impact of human activities on geological systems and the environment. They may have opportunities to study abroad, participate in international field expeditions, or engage in coursework focusing on global geology issues, gaining a broader understanding of geological phenomena and their implications for society and the planet. By embracing a global perspective, students learn to analyze geological problems from a holistic viewpoint and contribute to global efforts to address environmental sustainability, natural resource conservation, and hazard mitigation on a global scale.
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 (B.S.) in Geology program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them in various sectors, given their strong foundation in earth sciences, practical field experience, and analytical skills.
Geologist: Geologists work in fields such as mineral exploration, environmental consulting, petroleum and natural gas exploration, and geological surveying. They conduct field studies, analyze geological data, and interpret geological formations to identify mineral deposits, assess geological hazards, and evaluate the potential for resource extraction.
Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants assess environmental risks, conduct site investigations, and develop remediation plans for contaminated sites. They work for consulting firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, helping clients comply with environmental regulations, mitigate pollution, and restore ecosystems.
Geological Engineer: Geological engineers specialize in analyzing geological conditions and designing engineering solutions for infrastructure projects such as tunnels, dams, and foundations. They work for engineering firms, construction companies, and government agencies, ensuring that projects are built safely and sustainably in accordance with geological constraints.
Petroleum Geologist: Petroleum geologists explore and evaluate subsurface formations to locate oil and natural gas reserves. They work for energy companies, conducting geological surveys, interpreting seismic data, and assessing reservoir potential to optimize drilling operations and maximize hydrocarbon production.
Hydrogeologist: Hydrogeologists study the distribution and movement of groundwater in aquifers, assessing water resources, conducting groundwater modeling, and designing strategies for water supply and management. They work for government agencies, consulting firms, and water utilities, addressing issues such as groundwater contamination, water quality monitoring, and sustainable water resource management.
Geoscience Educator: Geoscience educators teach earth science courses at schools, colleges, and universities, educating students about geological processes, earth history, and environmental issues. They may also develop educational materials, conduct research, and mentor students interested in pursuing careers in the geosciences.
Geospatial Analyst: Geospatial analysts use geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial analysis techniques to analyze geographic data and solve spatial problems in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and natural resource conservation. They work for government agencies, research institutions, and private-sector companies, providing insights into spatial patterns and trends to support decision-making and planning.
Geological Surveyor: Geological surveyors conduct field surveys, map geological formations, and collect data on geological features such as topography, mineral resources, and geological hazards. They work for geological survey organizations, government agencies, and exploration companies, providing essential information for geological mapping, resource exploration, and land-use planning.
