Overview

The Earth Systems Science programme at George Mason University provides a comprehensive exploration of the planet through a global systems lens. This curriculum is designed to meet the increasing professional demand for experts capable of analysing the intricate relationships between the Earth's physical and biological spheres.

This interdisciplinary degree is delivered through a collaboration between the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Sciences and the Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science. By combining expertise from multiple fields, the programme ensures students receive a well-rounded education in modern geosciences.

Why Earth Systems Science at George Mason University?

The programme stands out for its rigorous research-oriented approach, focusing on the measurement and analysis of global systems. Students benefit from the combined resources of two distinct departments, providing access to a broad range of faculty expertise and specialised research facilities.

Flexibility is a core component of the academic experience, as students can choose between completing a master's thesis or a dedicated research project. Those opting for the project route further demonstrate their proficiency by passing a comprehensive examination, ensuring high standards of academic excellence.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 41124 per year
National fee: USD 41124 per year
Local fee: USD 18060 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the observation and measurement of the Earth's various layers and their interactions. Modules may include:

Atmospheric Science
Hydrosphere Studies
Lithosphere Dynamics
Biosphere Interactions
Earth Systems Observation
Data Analysis in Geosciences
Global Systems Research

Careers with Earth Systems Science

Graduates are prepared for professional roles that require a deep understanding of Earth science principles and the technical tools used to investigate environmental changes. The programme equips students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in research, environmental consultancy, and governmental agencies.

By specialising in specific areas of Earth science, students can tailor their career paths to match their research interests. The focus on global systems and analytical techniques ensures that alumni are competitive in industries focused on sustainability, resource management, and climate analysis.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Land-Climate Interactions

Paleoclimatology

The Hydrosphere

Atmospheric Physics

Hydrosphere

Physical Oceanography

Physical and Dynamical Oceanography

Hydrogeology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences Environmental Sciences View 157 other Masters in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants should have earned a BS degree in atmospheric, Earth, environmental, geological, geographical, ocean, or physical science. Previous coursework should include two semesters each of calculus, chemistry, and physics, and one semester of statistics. Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.00 in their undergraduate degree.
Official transcripts from each college and graduate institution attended, a current résumé, and a goals statement are required. Applicants also need three letters of recommendation and an official report of scores obtained on the GRE-GEN. The GRE requirement for admission may be waived if the student holds a master's degree from an institution of higher education accredited by a Mason-recognized U.S. institutional accrediting agency or international equivalent. TOEFL scores are required of all international applicants.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

41124 USD / year

≈ 41124 USD / year
Out-of-State

41124 USD / year

≈ 41124 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

18060 USD / year

≈ 18060 USD / year

Living costs

Fairfax

United States

1330 - 2300 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Earth Systems Science.

Available Scholarships

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Earth Systems Science

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

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Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Fairfax

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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