Overview

The Environmental Science and Policy master's programme at George Mason University provides students with the advanced scientific and analytical tools required to address urgent global ecological challenges. This interdisciplinary curriculum bridges the gap between scientific discovery and practical policy application to foster sustainable solutions for the planet. Students engage with complex issues ranging from biodiversity loss to urbanisation and global climate warming.

Why Environmental Science and Policy at George Mason University?

This programme is distinguished by its "Green Leaf" designation, reflecting a deep institutional commitment to sustainability and environmental literacy. George Mason University offers a unique partnership with the Smithsonian Mason School of Conservation, providing students with access to world-class conservation scientists and intensive, hands-on residential learning experiences. The curriculum is specifically designed to break down traditional academic silos, encouraging creative, problem-focused action in real-world settings.

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 offers diverse concentrations including Aquatic Ecology, Conservation Science, and Environmental Management. Modules may include:

Aquatic Ecology
Conservation Science and Policy
Environmental Biocomplexity
Sustainability Science
Environmental Policy and Management
Molecular Ecology
Communication for Environmental Science
Energy and Sustainability Policy
Conservation Medicine and Planetary Health

Careers with Environmental Science and Policy

Graduates are prepared for high-impact roles as trained environmental professionals in both the public and private sectors. The programme equips students for careers in land and water management, bioremediation, and ecosystem preservation. Many alumni pursue mid-level energy and sustainability positions or work as environmental managers within government agencies and private industry. The focus on quantitative and qualitative research methods ensures graduates can effectively contribute to the resolution of global problems such as food security, public health, and atmospheric protection.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Conservation Biology

Ecology

Population Ecology

Qualitative Research Methods for Environmental Scientists

Multivariate Data Analysis for Ecology and Environmental Science

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 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

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Credits

33 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Environmental Economics & Policy Environmental Sciences View 133 other Masters in Environmental Economics & Policy in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed George Mason University George Mason University Admissions Application.
Three letters of recommendation, including at least one from a former professor or, if not available, from someone with a PhD.
The GRE is required.
Statement of interest indicating: Desired concentration, potential areas of environmental focus/research interest, interactions with potential faculty advisors, and career goals.
Contact a potential George Mason faculty advisor (appropriate for research interests). An endorsement letter from the potential advisor must be sent to the Department of Environmental Science and Policy's graduate office; the availability of an advisor in the student's area of interest is a prerequisite for admission.

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 Environmental Science and Policy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

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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