International Relations
The International Relations undergraduate program at METU offers a comprehensive education in global politics, international diplomacy, political economy, and international law. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with analytical tools to understand global issues, state relations, international institutions, global economics, and foreign policy. Students learn to evaluate international conflicts, global governance, security, environmental and human rights issues within a multidisciplinary framework. The program develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, preparing graduates for roles in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, or advanced studies.
Situated in Ankara, this program provides English-medium instruction and a curriculum enriched with global perspectives and regional studies, enabling students to navigate complex international dynamics. With access to social science courses, economics, law and political theory, students build a well-rounded foundation in international affairs — equipping them to engage in academic, governmental or international careers.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International Relations
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara (METU campus)
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-medium)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: International Relations, Global Politics, Diplomacy, International Law & Institutions, Political Economy, Global Governance, Security Studies
- Admission modus: Regular undergraduate admissions
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of International Relations & Social Sciences
- Introduction to International Relations
- Political Theory / Introduction to Political Science
- International History I / Global Historical Contexts
- Introduction to Economics / Basic Economic Principles
- Academic English / Foundation Courses
Semester 2 – Core Global Affairs & Methodological Tools
- Comparative Politics / Comparative Governmental Systems
- International History II / Modern Global Events
- Introduction to International Law & Institutions
- Microeconomics / Basics of Economic Analysis
- Elective or Supporting Courses
Semester 3 – Political Economy & International Systems I
- International Political Economy I
- Security Studies / International Security Basics
- Quantitative or Qualitative Research Methods in Social Sciences
- Global Governance & International Organizations I
- Elective / Supporting Courses
Semester 4 – Political Economy & International Systems II
- International Political Economy II
- International Law II / Human Rights & International Law
- Global Governance & International Organizations II
- Macroeconomics / Economic Policy or Development Economics
- Elective / Supporting Courses
Semester 5 – Regional Studies & Global Issues I
- Regional Studies (e.g. Middle East, Europe, Asia, etc.) or Contemporary Regional Politics
- International Security & Conflict Resolution
- Global Economy & Trade / International Trade & Economics
- Elective Courses (international relations, global policy, environment/ development)
Semester 6 – International Relations Practice & Modern Challenges
- Diplomacy and Foreign Policy Analysis
- Global Environmental Politics / International Development Studies
- Elective Courses (security studies, global governance, human rights, migration)
- Research Methods / Social Research & Data Analysis
Semester 7 – Specialization, Research & Electives
- Specialized electives in chosen focus area (e.g. security, global development, international law, regional politics)
- Research Project or Independent Study / Seminar
- Internship or Fieldwork (if available)
- Elective Courses
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Senior Thesis or Capstone Project in International Relations
- Advanced electives according to specialization
- Preparation for graduation, professional readiness or further academic study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are equipped for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, global policy analysis, foreign service, international consultancy, journalism, research, and education. They may also pursue graduate studies (M.A. / Ph.D.) in international relations, political science, global studies or related fields. The program’s broad international scope and analytical training make graduates suitable for global and regional roles requiring strong understanding of international affairs.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the International Relations B.A. program at METU offers a thorough grounding in global politics, international law, economics, and diplomacy within an English-medium academic environment. The program’s multidisciplinary curriculum combines theoretical insight, analytical skills, and global awareness — ideal for those interested in international affairs, global challenges, and policy-oriented careers.
With diverse course offerings covering political theory, economics, history, law, global governance and regional studies, the program cultivates versatile, globally-oriented graduates ready for complex international roles or advanced academic pathways.
Contact Information
Middle East Technical University – Department of International Relations
Dumlupınar Boulevard No:1, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 2000
Email: ir@metu.edu.tr
Student Affairs Office – International Relations Department
Faculty of Social Sciences, METU
06800 Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 2001
Email: ir-undergrad@metu.edu.tr
International Office – Middle East Technical University
METU Campus, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1060
Email: ico@metu.edu.tr
