Overview

The Middle East and Islamic Studies programme at George Mason University provides an advanced interdisciplinary framework for understanding the historical and contemporary dynamics of the region. Students engage with diverse perspectives to build a nuanced foundation in both cultural heritage and modern political landscapes.

Why Middle East and Islamic Studies at George Mason University?

This curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking regarding the social, religious, and geopolitical factors that shape the Middle East. By integrating various academic disciplines, the course prepares scholars to navigate complex international environments with sensitivity and profound historical awareness.

The academic environment encourages rigorous research and intellectual growth, ensuring that graduates possess the tools necessary for high-level analysis.

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 core thematic areas and regional specialisations. Modules may include:

Middle East History
Islamic Studies
Regional Politics
Cultural Anthropology
Geopolitics of the Middle East
Religious Philosophy
Sociology of Islam
Contemporary Middle Eastern Societies

Careers with Middle East and Islamic Studies

Graduates from George Mason University often pursue influential roles within international organisations, governmental agencies, and non-profit sectors. The expertise gained allows for successful careers in diplomacy, policy analysis, and regional consultancy where deep cultural knowledge is essential.

The programme also serves as a robust foundation for those looking to enter the fields of international journalism or academic research. Many alumni find opportunities in global security firms and educational institutions, applying their specialised understanding of Islamic traditions and Middle Eastern affairs.

Professional pathways frequently include positions as cultural advisors, intelligence analysts, and human rights advocates. The versatile skill set developed during the course ensures that graduates are highly competitive in any sector requiring sophisticated cross-cultural communication and regional proficiency.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Critical Issues and Debates in Middle East and Islamic Studies

Approaches to Middle East and Islamic History

Islamic Texts and Contexts

Politics and Societies of the Middle East

Methods in Anthropology

Interdisciplinary Research Methods

The Scientific Method and Research Design

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 2027-02-15 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

Islamic Studies Middle Eastern studies View 34 other Masters in Middle Eastern studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

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 be between 750-1000 words and should include career goals and the role of graduate study in Middle East and Islamic studies.
An analytical writing sample (uploaded online; max 2000 words) is optional but recommended.

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 Middle East and Islamic Studies.

Available Scholarships

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

Middle East and Islamic Studies

About

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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