Overview

The Astronomy programme at George Mason University provides students with a rigorous foundation in the physical sciences to explore the complexities of the universe. This degree is designed to equip learners with the technical expertise required for advanced graduate study or professional careers in research, education, and the private sector. By investigating what lies beyond the atmosphere, students gain a deep understanding of how cosmic components interact.

Why Astronomy at George Mason University?

Students benefit from a learning environment led by faculty members who are recognised experts and highly productive in their respective research fields. The department emphasises a student-oriented approach, ensuring that learners receive guidance from active contributors to the scientific community. A significant highlight of the curriculum is the opportunity to engage in practical research, internships, or independent study projects.

The university provides specialised facilities for observational astronomy, where students complete a mandatory capstone project. This experience allows majors to refine their professional writing and presentation skills while conducting hands-on investigations. Furthermore, the programme offers flexible scheduling options tailored to different mathematical starting points, including pathways for transfer students and those beginning with various levels of calculus.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 39312 per year
National fee: USD 39312 per year
Local fee: USD 14316 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build strong quantitative skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Modules may include:

Observational Astronomy
Physics
Calculus
PreCalculus
Computational & Data Sciences
Atmospheric Science
Scientific Leadership and Practice
Design Thinking

Careers with Astronomy

Graduates are well-prepared for a diverse range of professional paths following their studies. Many progress into graduate school to pursue specialised research or academic careers in astrophysics and space sciences. The analytical rigour of the programme also makes graduates highly attractive to employers in industry and business sectors where scientific backgrounds are valued.

Potential career destinations include roles in scientific research institutions, educational organisations, and technology firms. The skills acquired in data analysis and observational techniques are applicable to various technical fields, providing a versatile foundation for employment in both the public and private sectors. Graduates often find success in roles that require complex problem-solving and a high degree of scientific literacy.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Computer Simulation in Astronomy

Methods of Observational Astronomy

Analytical Methods of Physics

Classical Mechanics

Electromagnetic Theory

Modern Physics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

Freshman Priority Application Deadline (for Spring Semester) October 1
Regular Decision Deadline(for Fall Semester) February 1

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Astronomy & Space Sciences View 250 other Bachelors in Astronomy & Space Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

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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.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed online application and application fee. Mason accepts the Common Application and George Mason University’s Undergraduate Application for Admission.

Certified official, original transcripts from all secondary schools as well as official results from any leaving certificates or university entrance exams taken. A certified English translation must be submitted for any documents not already in English.

Official scores from SAT or ACT. International students have the option to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application or apply Score Optional.

Secondary School Report (PDF) and counselor recommendations. We suggest sending two (2) letters of recommendation, one from a high school counselor and one from a teacher.

An optional, but strongly encouraged Personal Statement or Essay of approximately 250 words explaining to the Office of Admissions why YOU want to attend university study.

Resume for any applicant with gaps in enrollment.

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

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Out-of-State

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14316 USD / year

≈ 14316 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.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Astronomy.

Available Scholarships

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

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

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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