Political Science and International Relations
Welcome to the Department of Political Science and International Relations!
For students who seek to understand the global world, our department offers a solid academic foundation, a broad intellectual vision, and practical skills.
Our Mission
The mission of our department is to equip students with a perspective on the professional practices and ethics of Political Science and International Relations, enabling them to analyze national and international political developments through an interdisciplinary, analytical, and critical approach, and to contribute both scientifically and socially.
Our Vision
The vision of our department is to cultivate an egalitarian academic environment that supports education and research aimed at contributing to the public good.
Curriculum
Our curriculum focuses on four core subfields of Political Science and International Relations:
- International Relations
- Comparative Politics
- Political Theory
- Turkish Politics
In addition, our program offers students the flexibility to take elective courses from other departments in related disciplines.
Click here for detailed course descriptions and ECTS information.
Academic Staff
Our academic staff is composed of faculty members with extensive research backgrounds and field experience in their respective areas of expertise.
Click here to learn more about research and publications of our faculty.
In our podcast interviews with the faculty members of our department, we discuss a wide range of topics, from academic research areas to current developments. You can listen to our podcasts via the link below:
"Being an International Student" with Prof. Dr. Burak Küntay
"The Role of Women in Academia" with Assoc. Prof. Pınar Sayan
“Political Science and International Relations” with Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kasım Han
Prof. Dr. Burak Küntay on "October 29, the 102nd Anniversary of the Republic"
"Living Together in Istanbul: Socio-Spatial Encounters" with Assist. Prof. Özlem Cihan
"On Migration: People, Society, and Borders" with Assist. Prof. Edanur Erözer
Programme Learning Outcomes
Upon graduation, our students are able to:
- Define the basic theories and concepts in the field of Political Science and International Relations,
- Identify the main actors, dynamics and power relations in national and international politics,
- Analyze current political events and issues in national and international politics,
- Relay the information to different groups through using quantitative and qualitative data; and written, verbal and visual communication tools,
- Interpret the field of Political Science and International Relations through its relations with other social sciences,
- Analyze problems and take initiative to solve them,
- Act in line with public good and citizenship awareness,
- Develop an analytical, comparative and critical perspective,
- Apply the knowledge in professional life,
- Communicate effectively in written and spoken English on topics related to their field, with English language proficiency at a minimum A2 level in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR),
- Use information and communication technologies,
- Apply expert knowledge with ethical awareness and social responsibility,
- Evaluate national and international political developments within the framework of social justice and human rights.
Programme Educational Objectives
Our graduates are able to:
- Contribute to global and local policymaking processes and governance mechanisms by working in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, international organizations, public institutions, political parties, and non-governmental organizations,
- Work as consultants, analysts, strategists, or researchers in think tanks, consultancy firms, research companies, or media organizations,
- Pursue an academic career by continuing to maste's and doctoral programs, and contribute to scientific research and publications at universities or research centers,
- Work in various departments of international and national companies.
Our Alumni
Our university supports students in planning their careers through the Career Planning course offered in the first year, Career Days that bring together students with representatives from various sectors and our alumni, and the activities of the Career Center.
Click here for more information about the Career Center.
Applied Education Process
Our students have the opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge into practice through the Workplace Training offered in the final year of the program.
International Exchange Programs
Through partnerships established with universities abroad, our students can benefit from international exchange programs and scholarships.
The department currently has Erasmus+ agreements with the following institutions:
- University of Szeged
- Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
- Università degli Studi di Sassari
- Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski Jana Pawła II
- International University of Sarajevo
- South-West University "Neofit Rilski"
- Universitatea din Craiova
Click here for more information about the Erasmus+ program.
Double Major and Minor Opportunities
Within the framework of bilateral protocols, our students are offered the opportunity to pursue double major and minor programs with other departments across the university.
Click here for the Double Major and Minor Program Regulation.
Research Opportunities
Students interested in academic research can take part—either voluntarily or on a paid basis—in research projects led by faculty members, or they may apply for TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye) grants under the supervision of their academic advisors.
Student Clubs
Among tens of student clubs at our university, established by our students in 2021, the Political Science Club provides a platform for social interaction, initiative-taking, and creative expression.
Events
Our department provides students with opportunities to follow current political developments and academic advancements through conferences, seminars, and panel discussions featuring expert guest speakers, as well as through field trips that offer on-site learning experiences.
Click here for information on our past events.
Graduate Education Opportunities
Under the umbrella of our university’s Institute of Graduate Programs, the department offers four Master's and a PhD program:
- Global Politics and International Relations Master's Program (English / With-Non/Thesis)
- Political Science and International Relations Master's Program (With-Non/Thesis)
- Doctoral Program in Political Science and International Relations
Click here for detailed information on our graduate programs.
This content was updated on 10/07/2026.