Overview

The Global Affairs programme at George Mason University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interconnectedness of our modern world. Students engage with diverse perspectives to analyse the political, social, and economic forces shaping international relations. This curriculum prepares graduates to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape.

By focusing on rigorous research and practical application, the course ensures that learners develop the analytical tools necessary for high-level decision-making. The academic environment encourages critical thinking regarding transnational issues, ranging from security and governance to cultural exchange and global markets.

Why Global Affairs at George Mason University?

George Mason University provides a strategic location that offers students unparalleled access to international organisations, governmental agencies, and influential non-profits. This proximity allows for a learning experience that bridges the gap between theoretical classroom study and real-world policy implementation.

The faculty consists of renowned scholars and practitioners who bring current industry insights into the classroom. Students benefit from a diverse peer group, fostering a multicultural learning environment that reflects the global nature of the subject matter. The institution is recognised for its commitment to innovation and impactful research.

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 is structured to provide a broad foundation in international themes while allowing for specialised focus. Modules may include:

Global Governance
International Economics
Research Methods
Global Conflict and Security
International Development
Global Culture and Society
Human Rights and Justice
Global Policy Analysis

Careers with Global Affairs

Graduates of the Global Affairs programme often secure influential roles within international NGOs, diplomatic services, and intergovernmental bodies. The versatile skill set acquired during the course is highly valued by private sector firms operating in global markets, particularly in areas of risk analysis and strategic planning.

Common career paths include roles as policy analysts, international programme coordinators, and consultants for global development projects. Many alumni also find success in intelligence agencies, foreign trade departments, and humanitarian organisations, where they apply their expertise to solve complex cross-border challenges.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Global Competencies

Interdisciplinary Research Methods

Economic Globalization and Development

Case Studies in Globalization

Ethics and International Security

Intelligence: Theory and Practice

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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IELTS

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

International Relations Political Science View 288 other Masters in Political Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

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

The goals statement should address the following:

Purpose for graduate study and why the applicant has selected Global Affairs (and planned area of specialization) and George Mason University
The applicant's career goals and plans for the future
The applicant's preparation for the field of Global Affairs, in relation to academic background, extracurricular activities, professional experience, etc.
Any other details that are not revealed elsewhere in the application that give the admissions committee an idea of who the applicant is as a person and master's candidate

Note: Applicants are welcome to include an explanation for any problems or inconsistencies in other application materials (low GPA, etc.) in their Goals Statement.

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 Global Affairs.

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

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

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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