George Mason University

Innovate. Lead. Thrive.

📍 Fairfax, United States 🇺🇸

🏆 #105 in United States · QS World #951 · THE World #401 · ARWU #201

Quick Facts about George Mason University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 39,763
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Language: English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
  • Intakes: August, January

About George Mason University

George Mason University (GMU) is a public research university located in Fairfax, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. It is the largest public university in Virginia by student enrollment and is recognized for its commitment to diversity and innovation. GMU offers a wide array of academic programs designed to prepare students for future careers and personal growth.

Academics

George Mason University provides a comprehensive educational experience with over 200 degree and certificate programs, including 78 undergraduate majors and 132 graduate and professional degrees. Notable programs include Economics, Computer Science, Information Technology, Public Policy and Government, Engineering, and Health Sciences. The university emphasizes a practical, hands-on approach to learning, with strong connections to industry and government, especially given its proximity to Washington, D.C. The student-faculty ratio is 17:1, with a significant portion of undergraduate classes having fewer than 30 students, fostering a more personalized learning environment.

International Students

George Mason University is dedicated to supporting its large international student population, welcoming students from over 130 countries. The Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) offers crucial advising and compliance services, helping international students navigate F-1 visa regulations and providing resources for cultural integration. INTO Mason, a partnership program, offers English language and academic preparation for students who need to meet admission requirements. International students can also find support through various student organizations and events designed to promote cross-cultural understanding.

Campus & Location

The main campus of George Mason University is situated on 677 acres in Fairfax, Virginia, offering a suburban environment with easy access to the vibrant city life of Washington, D.C., located just 20 miles away. The university also has additional campuses in Arlington and Prince William, as well as an international campus in Songdo, South Korea. The Fairfax campus features numerous residence halls, and the university provides various transportation options. The surrounding area offers a wealth of attractions and opportunities for cultural and recreational activities.

Career Outcomes

George Mason University graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with an 85% employment rate within six months of graduation, which includes employment, graduate school, military service, or volunteer work. The average salary for GMU graduates is USD 74,000. The university maintains robust industry connections, particularly in education, government, military, technology, and healthcare sectors. University Career Services provides tailored advice and resources for international students, including assistance with U.S.-style resumes, cover letters, and information on employment options like CPT and OPT. Top employers of GMU graduates include Amazon, Deloitte, KPMG, and various U.S. government agencies.

Information for International Students at George Mason University

George Mason University in Fairfax, United States welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for George Mason University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to George Mason University:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 80
  • Duolingo minimum: 110
  • GPA minimum: 3
  • Application fee: $75
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)
  • Application deadline: February 1

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Programs at George Mason University (21 programs)

George Mason University offers 21 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (5)

  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
    This program explores human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Research Assistant, Social Worker
  • Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, providing comprehensive education in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention across diverse healthcare settings.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator
  • Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program provides a strong foundation in computing principles, software development, algorithms, and data structures, preparing students for careers in various technology sectors.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Engineer
  • Business Administration (BS) — 48 months · English
    Students gain a comprehensive understanding of business functions, including management, marketing, finance, and operations, preparing them for leadership roles in diverse industries.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor, Operations Manager
  • Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings, with a focus on sustainability and safety.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner

Master Programs (11)

  • Data Analytics Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on the application of data science techniques and engineering principles to extract insights from large datasets, enabling data-driven decision-making.
    Field: Data Science
    Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer
  • Public Policy (MPP) — 24 months · English
    This program prepares students for careers in policy analysis, development, and implementation in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.
    Field: Public Policy
    Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Relations Specialist, Program Manager, Advocacy Director
  • Cyber Security (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students develop advanced skills in protecting information systems from cyber threats, covering topics such as network security, cryptography, and digital forensics.
    Field: Cybersecurity
    Career outcomes: Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Engineer, Information Security Manager, Penetration Tester
  • Education Leadership (MEd) — 24 months · English
    This program prepares educators for leadership roles in schools and educational organizations, focusing on curriculum development, instructional leadership, and organizational management.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: School Principal, Assistant Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, District Administrator
  • Applied Information Technology (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on the practical application of information technology to solve real-world problems, with specializations in areas like software engineering, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
    Field: Information Technology
    Career outcomes: IT Manager, Systems Analyst, Software Engineer, Network Administrator
  • Systems Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students learn to design, integrate, and manage complex systems across various industries, focusing on interdisciplinary problem-solving and lifecycle management.
    Field: Systems Engineering
    Career outcomes: Systems Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant, Technical Lead
  • Biodefense (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This interdisciplinary program addresses the scientific, technological, and policy challenges of defending against biological threats, including bioterrorism and infectious diseases.
    Field: Biodefense
    Career outcomes: Biodefense Analyst, Public Health Specialist, Intelligence Analyst, Emergency Management Specialist
  • Business Analytics (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students learn to use data, statistical methods, and quantitative analysis to drive business decisions and improve organizational performance.
    Field: Business Analytics
    Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Data Analyst, Management Consultant, Operations Research Analyst
  • Health Administration (MHA) — 24 months · English
    This program prepares professionals for leadership and management roles in healthcare organizations, focusing on healthcare policy, finance, and operations.
    Field: Health Administration
    Career outcomes: Hospital Administrator, Healthcare Consultant, Clinic Manager, Public Health Manager
  • Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English
    This program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, health promotion, environmental health, and health policy.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Biostatistician
  • Global Affairs (MA) — 24 months · English
    This program provides an interdisciplinary understanding of global issues, including international relations, development, and security, preparing students for careers in international organizations and diplomacy.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: Foreign Service Officer, International Development Specialist, Policy Advisor, NGO Program Manager

PhD Programs (5)

  • Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
    This doctoral program provides rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for research and academic careers.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Research Scientist, Policy Advisor
  • Computational Sciences and Informatics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
    This interdisciplinary program focuses on advanced computational methods and informatics to solve complex problems in science, engineering, and other fields.
    Field: Computational Science
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Computational Scientist, Data Architect, University Professor
  • Criminology, Law and Society (PhD) — 60 months · English
    This program offers advanced study of crime, criminal justice, and the intersection of law and society, preparing students for research and academic roles.
    Field: Criminology
    Career outcomes: Criminologist, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Research Director
  • Bioengineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
    This doctoral program integrates engineering principles with biological sciences to address challenges in medicine and biotechnology, focusing on research and innovation.
    Field: Bioengineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Innovator
  • Conflict Analysis and Resolution (PhD) — 60 months · English
    This program offers advanced theoretical and practical training in understanding, analyzing, and resolving conflicts at interpersonal, intergroup, and international levels.
    Field: Conflict Resolution
    Career outcomes: Conflict Resolution Specialist, Mediator, University Professor, Policy Advisor

Scholarships & Tuition at George Mason University

✅ George Mason University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of George Mason University

  • National Ranking: #105 in United States
  • QS World University Ranking: #951
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #401
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at George Mason University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

  • Largest public university in Virginia
  • Proximity to Washington, D.C.
  • Diverse international student body
  • Strong programs: Economics, Computer Science
  • Practical, hands-on learning
  • Comprehensive academic offerings

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

Frequently Asked Questions about George Mason University

What is George Mason University?

George Mason University is a public university located in Fairfax, United States. It has approximately 39,763 students.

What are the admission requirements for George Mason University?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $75. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: February 1.

What language are courses taught in at George Mason University?

Courses at George Mason University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does George Mason University offer?

George Mason University offers 21 programs: 5 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is George Mason University ranked?

#105 in United States · QS World #951 · THE World #401 · ARWU #201.

Does George Mason University offer scholarships?

Yes, George Mason University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does George Mason University provide visa support?

Yes, George Mason University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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