BA

Environmental and Sustainability Studies

Learn more about studying Environmental and Sustainability Studies as an international student.

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Key facts

  • Degree type
    Bachelor's
  • Duration
    4 years
  • Delivery method
    On campus
  • Pace
    Full-time
  • Annual tuition fee
    39,803USD
  • Start date
    Sep
  • QS Ranking
    1001-1200

Program overview

What George Mason University says about their program:

Environmental and Sustainability Studies is a BA undergraduate programme at George Mason University. It introduces students to the central concepts and current questions that shape environmental and sustainability studies, with learning supported by the university's broad academic community.

Students explore key ideas and methods in the field while developing the research, communication and critical-thinking skills needed for further study and a wide range of careers. The curriculum encourages students to connect classroom learning with independent enquiry, collaboration and practical applications.

Students graduate with a recognised bachelor's qualification and a versatile set of subject knowledge and transferable skills that can support employment, professional training or further study.

Illustration featuring a variety of academic and scientific symbols, including a graduation cap on top of a profile of Einstein's head, a book, a ruler, a lightbulb, a microscope, a DNA helix, and molecular structure, against a backdrop of a university building with trees and clouds.

Admission requirements

Undergraduate academic requirements

  • Completion of high school/ secondary education

English proficiency

  • English proficiency is required; accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

English proficiency waivers

  • U.S. Secondary School Education

    Undergraduate applicants who have graduated or will graduate from a George Mason-recognized, accredited U.S. secondary school and have attended all four years (Grades 9–12 or equivalent).

  • IB or UK Curriculum (Starting for Fall 2026 applicants)

    Undergraduate applicants who have graduated or will graduate from a school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British (UK) curriculum.

  • Waiver-Eligible Country Education

    Undergraduate applicants who have graduated or will graduate from a secondary school in a waiver-eligible country and have attended all four years (Grades 9–12 or equivalent) at a school where English is the primary language of instruction.

  • College-Level English Coursework

    Undergraduate applicants who have completed at least six (6) college-level English Composition credits from a George Mason-recognized accredited institution within the United States with a grade of C or better in each course.

  • Degree from the United States or a Waiver-Eligible Country

    Graduate or Undergraduate applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher degree from a George Mason-recognized institution in the United States or a waiver-eligible country.

To access the list of waiver-eligible countries and additional information on the waivers click here.

Documents required

  • Passport
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Degree certificate or diploma
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Statement of purpose or personal statement
  • Recommendation letters
  • Finance proof
  • Translations
  • Credential evaluations
Illustration of academic elements  representing admission requirements, including a graduation cap, clock, documents, resumes, ID card, a calendar, and a clipboard.

Required grades

to see how attainable this program is.

  • Grade Point Average (GPA)

    3.42

    Holistic

All grade information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official program page for the latest information on required grades.

Additional requirements

Documents

  • Certified official transcripts from all secondary schools and official results from leaving certificates or university entrance examinations. Documents not in English must include a certified English translation.

Essays and statements

  • Personal statement or essay of approximately 250 words explaining why you want to attend university (optional, but strongly encouraged).

Recommendations

  • Secondary School Report and counselor recommendations

    two letters are suggested, one from a high school counselor and one from a teacher.

Tests and examinations

  • English language proficiency is required for non-native English-speaking applicants.
  • SAT or ACT scores may be submitted, or applicants may apply under Mason's Score Optional consideration.

Experience

  • Resume required for applicants with gaps in enrollment.

How to apply

2 routes available:

Scholarships at George Mason University

  • Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students

    Official page

    George Mason University offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships to highly qualified international freshmen and transfer students who are non-immigrant, non-resident, and degree-seeking. Admitted applicants are automatically considered, with no separate scholarship application, and awards are renewable based on good academic standing.

All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the university's official scholarship page for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.

Fees

For 2026–27, George Mason estimates undergraduate out-of-state tuition at approximately $39,803 per year for full-time study. Students should also budget for housing, meals, books, transportation, health insurance and personal expenses. Actual costs vary according to the programme, course load and lifestyle.

Illustration of education and financial elements including a graduation cap, trophy, diploma, books, a piggy bank, stacks of cash notes, and coins, representing fees and funding.

What is the cost of living near George Mason University?

Category Cost  (in United States Dollar)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre$1,981
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$1,659
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$95
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$60
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110· USA average
Monthly public transport pass$70
Monthly grocery basket$257
Coffee shop drink$6
Cinema or cultural event ticket$18
Gym membership$74

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from livingcost.org (Crowdsourced) and numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).

Visa requirements for George Mason University

Navigating the visa process is a crucial step in your study abroad journey. Make sure to seek guidance and support to ensure you meet all necessary requirements for your time at George Mason University.