Peace Studies at George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
46 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
46
Optimistic
46
Base Case
49
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,929/yr (-0% vs median)
AI Risk High (34% exposed)
Job Market Medium (17,000 openings/yr)
ROI 11.1x earnings multiple (3.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #2 of 5 Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

George Mason University's Peace Studies program thrives on its unique location in Fairfax, placing you at the heart of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. This proximity provides unparalleled access to federal agencies like the State Department or USAID, numerous international NGOs, and a vast ecosystem of think tanks and advocacy groups dedicated to global development and conflict resolution. Your career path will likely lead you into roles involving policy analysis, program management, or community and international mediation, often within these public and non-profit sectors. The noted AI risk often applies to the more data-driven or administrative aspects of policy work, underscoring the importance of cultivating advanced human-centric skills. To succeed, actively seek out internships and networking opportunities within the D.C. area, building practical experience that showcases your nuanced problem-solving abilities.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Peace Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $626K $615K $571K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.3x 11.1x 10.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.0x 3.9x 3.6x
Probability of Field Employment 62% 57% 47%
DegreeOutlook Score 46 46 49

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$55,260
Out-of-state: $157,588 (3.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$73,148
-32% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
7.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$63,777
56% growth from Year 1

About George Mason University

George Mason University has a 89% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, one of the larger campuses at 27,083 students in Fairfax, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at George Mason University →

Top Career Paths

Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators $67,710/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Peace Studies at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 46/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Peace Studies at George Mason University?
At 46/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Peace Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Peace Studies at George Mason University?
The 34% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →