M.A. in Communication

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 Communication program at George Mason University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of communication theory, research, and practice. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of exciting and rewarding careers in various sectors. 

1. Diverse Career Paths: Graduates of the M.A. in Communication program have a multitude of career paths available to them due to the versatile nature of communication skills. They can find opportunities in industries such as public relations, marketing, advertising, media production, corporate communication, journalism, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and more.

2. Strategic Communication: Many graduates excel in strategic communication roles. They craft compelling messages, develop communication strategies, and manage campaigns for organizations to effectively reach their target audiences. This may involve creating press releases, managing social media, organizing events, and maintaining a positive public image.

3. Media and Journalism: For those interested in media and journalism, graduates can work as reporters, editors, content creators, and media producers. They can contribute to newspapers, magazines, online platforms, television networks, and radio stations, delivering timely and accurate information to the public.

4. Digital Marketing and Social Media: With the rise of digital platforms, graduates can specialize in digital marketing and social media management. They strategize, create content, and engage with online audiences, helping businesses build their brand presence and connect with customers in the digital landscape.

5. Corporate Communication: In the corporate world, communication professionals play a crucial role in maintaining internal and external communication for businesses. They create employee communication strategies, handle crisis communication, and ensure consistent messaging across all levels of the organization.

6. Nonprofit and Government Organizations: Graduates can work in the nonprofit sector, assisting organizations with communication efforts to raise awareness, secure funding, and engage supporters. Additionally, government agencies require communication experts to inform the public about policies, programs, and services.

7. Research and Academia: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in academia or research. They can work as communication researchers, professors, or consultants, contributing to the advancement of communication theory and practice.

8. Media Production and Entertainment: For those with a passion for media production, graduates can work in roles such as producers, directors, scriptwriters, and editors for television, film, streaming services, and online content platforms.

9. Public Relations and Reputation Management: Communication professionals in public relations are responsible for shaping and maintaining a positive image for individuals, organizations, or brands. They manage media relations, crisis communication, and stakeholder engagement.

10. Consulting and Training: Experienced communication professionals may transition into consulting or training roles. They provide guidance to organizations on effective communication strategies and offer workshops to enhance the communication skills of employees.

11. Networking Opportunities: George Mason University's strong connections with local and national industries provide students with networking opportunities and internships. The university's location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area also offers access to government agencies, media outlets, nonprofit organizations, and corporate headquarters.