Overview

The Political Science M.A. at George Mason University provides students with a sophisticated understanding of global political processes and rigorous research methodologies. This programme is specifically designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical political application within the Schar School of Policy and Government. Students engage with complex issues in comparative politics and international relations while developing high-level analytical skills.

Why Political Science at George Mason University?

Studying at the Schar School of Policy and Government places students near the heart of American political power, offering unparalleled access to the nation's capital. The faculty includes world-renowned scholars and practitioners who have served at the highest levels of the federal government. These experts frequently provide analysis for national media and publish in top-tier academic journals, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to current global affairs. Students also benefit from the university's world-renowned research centres and institutes, which foster a rich environment for intellectual growth and professional mentorship.

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 consists of 36 credits across 12 courses, focusing on both theoretical foundations and quantitative analysis. Modules may include:

American Government and Politics
Political Theory
Comparative Politics
International Relations
Scientific Method & Research Design
Data Analysis for Policy and Government
Political Science Research Project

Careers with Political Science

Graduates from this programme are highly successful in securing roles across various sectors, with half of recent alumni entering the federal government. The diverse skill set acquired during the course prepares students for analytical and leadership positions in both public and private organisations. Recent graduates have secured employment with the following employers:

U.S. Department of State
NATO
BAE Systems
Booz Allen Hamilton
Federal Election Commission
IBM
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory
Chemonics International

Career paths typically include roles in consulting, policy analysis, and international affairs, with 25% of graduates entering the private consulting sector and another 25% joining general private-sector firms.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

American Government and Politics

Political Theory

Comparative Politics

International Relations

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 2026-12-01 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

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States
Arlington, United States

Disciplines

Political Science View 287 other Masters in Political Science 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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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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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.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed applications for fall and spring semesters are reviewed on a rolling basis, with late applications considered on a space-available basis. Students may be admitted for non-degree study and apply a limited number of credits toward the master's degree should they choose to apply to the degree program later, in accordance with university policy.

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 Political Science.

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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