M.A. in Sociology
George Mason University, a prestigious institution located in Fairfax, Virginia, offers...
M.A. in Anthropology
Fairfax, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Anthropology program at George Mason University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors through the lens of anthropology. This interdisciplinary program equips students with theoretical knowledge, research skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for exploring the complexities of human diversity and addressing contemporary societal challenges. Through theoretical exploration, research methodologies, and a focus on cultural diversity, students graduate prepared to contribute meaningfully to the field of anthropology and address global challenges. The program's emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and ethical engagement equips graduates for a wide range of careers and opportunities in academia, research, advocacy, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Curriculum
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Interdisciplinary Approach: The M.A. in Anthropology program at George Mason University takes an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from various fields such as archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistics. This broad perspective allows students to gain a holistic understanding of human societies and cultures.
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Theoretical Foundations: Students delve into anthropological theories that underpin the study of human behavior, cultural dynamics, and social structures. They critically engage with concepts such as cultural relativism, symbolic anthropology, and postcolonialism to develop a well-rounded perspective.
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Research Methodologies: The program emphasizes research methodologies, equipping students with qualitative and quantitative research skills. They learn how to conduct fieldwork, ethnographic research, and data analysis, essential for conducting original research and contributing to the field.
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Cultural Diversity: Courses explore cultural diversity across the globe, focusing on indigenous communities, ethnic groups, and marginalized populations. Students gain insights into the challenges and opportunities posed by globalization, migration, and cultural exchange.
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Public Engagement: The program encourages students to engage with the public and communities, fostering a sense of ethical responsibility. They learn how to communicate anthropological insights effectively and engage in culturally sensitive practices.
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Elective Specializations: Students have the flexibility to choose elective courses that align with their interests and career goals. Specializations may include medical anthropology, environmental anthropology, applied anthropology, or museum studies.
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Capstone Project: The program culminates in a capstone project, where students apply their research skills to investigate a topic of their choice. This project allows them to showcase their ability to conduct in-depth research and contribute to anthropological scholarship.
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Faculty Expertise: Students learn from experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and fieldwork. Faculty expertise covers a wide range of anthropological subfields, offering students diverse perspectives and mentorship.
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Collaborative Learning: The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students engage in discussions, debates, and projects that encourage the exchange of ideas and viewpoints.
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Career Preparation: Alongside academic learning, the program emphasizes skills that are valuable in various careers. Graduates are equipped for roles in academia, research, public policy, cultural preservation, international development, and more.
Location
Fairfax, Virginia
Score
IELTS:7
Tuition Fee
USD 34210
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 Anthropology program at George Mason University offers students a unique opportunity to delve into the study of human societies, cultures, and behaviors from a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective. This program equips graduates with a solid foundation in anthropological theories, research methodologies, and critical thinking skills, opening doors to diverse and fulfilling career pathways in academia, research, public service, and beyond.
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Academic Research and Teaching: Graduates of the M.A. in Anthropology program can pursue doctoral studies and academic careers. With a strong theoretical and methodological background, they are well-equipped to contribute to the field through original research, publications, and teaching at colleges and universities.
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Cultural Resource Management: Anthropologists play a crucial role in cultural resource management, working for government agencies, consulting firms, and nonprofit organizations. They assess the cultural significance of sites, artifacts, and landscapes, ensuring their preservation during development projects.
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Museum and Curatorial Work: Graduates may find employment in museums, cultural centers, and heritage organizations. They curate exhibits, conduct research, and contribute to educational programs that promote cultural understanding and appreciation.
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International Development and NGOs: The program's focus on cross-cultural understanding and community engagement prepares graduates for roles in international development organizations and NGOs. They contribute to projects aimed at addressing social, economic, and health issues in diverse global contexts.
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Market Research and User Experience (UX) Design: Anthropologists' skills in qualitative research and understanding human behavior are valuable in market research and UX design. They help organizations understand consumer preferences, behaviors, and needs, improving product and service design.
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Public Policy and Advocacy: Graduates may work with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy groups to address social issues. Their expertise in cultural diversity and social dynamics can inform policy decisions and community development initiatives.
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Health and Medical Anthropology: The program's interdisciplinary approach equips graduates to contribute to health-related research, healthcare policy development, and community health initiatives. They analyze cultural factors influencing health beliefs and practices.
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Environmental and Sustainable Development: Anthropologists with a focus on environmental anthropology can work on projects related to sustainable development, resource management, and climate change adaptation. They collaborate with communities to address environmental challenges.
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Cultural Consultancy: Anthropologists provide cultural sensitivity training and consultation to businesses, government agencies, and organizations working in culturally diverse environments, facilitating effective communication and collaboration.
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Nontraditional Pathways: The critical thinking, research, and communication skills acquired in the program are applicable to a wide range of industries, from journalism and publishing to public relations and marketing.
