M.Ed. in Counseling and Development

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 Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Development program at George Mason University is a comprehensive and specialized pathway designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundations required for a successful career in counseling and related fields. This program offers a diverse range of career opportunities in areas such as school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and community counseling.

1. School Counselor: Graduates of the M.Ed. in Counseling and Development program can pursue careers as school counselors in K-12 educational settings. School counselors play a pivotal role in supporting students' academic, social, and emotional development. They provide counseling, guidance, and resources to help students navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and achieve academic success.

2. Clinical Mental Health Counselor: This program prepares individuals for careers as clinical mental health counselors. Graduates can work in private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. They provide therapeutic interventions to individuals dealing with mental health issues, substance abuse, trauma, and various emotional challenges.

3. Career Counselor: Career counselors help individuals explore and navigate their career paths. They assist clients in making informed career decisions, identifying strengths and interests, and developing strategies for achieving their professional goals. This role can be pursued in educational institutions, workforce development agencies, and private consulting.

4. Marriage and Family Therapist: Graduates with a focus on marriage and family therapy can work with couples and families to address relationship dynamics, communication issues, and familial challenges. Marriage and family therapists often operate in private practices, mental health clinics, and counseling centers.

5. Rehabilitation Counselor: Rehabilitation counselors assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their personal, vocational, and social goals. They provide support to clients as they navigate the challenges of living with disabilities and work toward maximizing their independence and quality of life.

6. Substance Abuse Counselor: As substance abuse continues to be a prevalent issue, there is a growing demand for professionals who can provide counseling and support to individuals struggling with addiction. Graduates can work in addiction treatment centers, correctional facilities, and community organizations.

7. Community Counselor: Community counselors work in various settings, including non-profit organizations, community centers, and government agencies. They provide counseling services to individuals facing social challenges, such as poverty, homelessness, and domestic violence.