M.A. in Transportation Policy, Operations and Logistics

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The degree should be relevant to the chosen field of study for the postgraduate program.

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): The minimum GPA requirement for admission to most postgraduate programs at George Mason University is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.  

3. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS: Overall score of 7, with no individual band score below 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 88 , with no band less than 20.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120

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.

1. 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.

2. INTO Mason Scholarships: INTO Mason, a partnership program that helps international students transition to university life in the United States, offers scholarships to students who enroll in Pathway programs. These scholarships can help cover tuition costs and are awarded based on academic merit.

3. 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 commitment to their chosen area of study.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Transportation Policy, Operations, and Logistics program at George Mason University equips graduates with a versatile skill set and specialized knowledge that opens doors to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the transportation industry and related sectors.  

1. Transportation Planning and Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as transportation planners, analyzing data and trends to develop effective transportation policies and strategies. They contribute to creating more efficient and sustainable transportation systems, making informed decisions to address issues such as traffic congestion, public transit, and environmental impact.

2. Logistics and Supply Chain Manager: Professionals with expertise in logistics and supply chain management are highly sought after. Graduates can lead the coordination of goods and services throughout the supply chain, optimizing efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring timely delivery.

3. Operations Manager: Operations managers oversee the day-to-day functioning of transportation systems. They ensure smooth operations, manage resources, and utilize data-driven insights to enhance the performance of transportation networks.

4. Transportation Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants, providing expert advice to government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations. They may assist in designing efficient transportation solutions, conducting feasibility studies, and recommending strategies for improving transportation infrastructure.

5. Urban and Regional Planner: Urban and regional planners focus on land use and transportation development. Graduates can contribute to creating well-designed communities that integrate transportation options, minimize traffic congestion, and promote sustainability.

6. Policy Analyst in Government Agencies: Government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels often require policy analysts to evaluate and formulate transportation policies. Graduates can play a crucial role in shaping regulations and programs that influence transportation systems.

7. Environmental and Sustainability Specialist: Given the emphasis on sustainable transportation, graduates can work as specialists in environmental and sustainability roles. They assess the environmental impact of transportation projects and propose measures to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices.

8. Transportation Technology Specialist: The transportation industry is embracing technology to enhance efficiency and safety. Graduates can work on implementing innovative technologies such as intelligent transportation systems, electric vehicles, and autonomous vehicles.

9. Researcher and Data Analyst: With strong research and data analysis skills, graduates can pursue roles focused on gathering, interpreting, and utilizing transportation data to inform decision-making and policy formulation.

10. Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations: Graduates can work with nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups focused on transportation issues. They may contribute to efforts aimed at improving public transit, advocating for sustainable transportation policies, and promoting equitable access to transportation services.

11. Academic and Educational Roles: Some graduates choose to enter academia as educators or researchers in transportation studies. They can teach the next generation of transportation professionals and contribute to advancements in the field through research.

12. International Opportunities: The skills gained from this program can be applied globally. Graduates can explore opportunities with international organizations, multinational corporations, and institutions focused on global transportation challenges.

13. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: With a solid understanding of transportation systems and policies, graduates may venture into entrepreneurial endeavors, such as launching startups that offer innovative transportation solutions or services.