Middle East Political History and International Relations
The Middle East Political History and International Relations (English) master’s program at Marmara University is a two-year graduate degree taught fully in English. This program offers advanced study of Middle East history, politics, international relations, regional dynamics, and global connections. Students explore historical and contemporary issues: state formation, conflicts, diplomacy, geopolitics, social change and regional integration. Through courses, seminars and research work, students develop deep knowledge about Middle Eastern societies, political systems, international relations theories, and research skills to analyse regional and global developments.
Located in Istanbul — a city bridging Europe, Asia and the Middle East — the program provides a unique perspective on regional issues in a globally connected environment. Students benefit from experienced faculty, a diverse academic atmosphere and English-medium instruction, enabling them to study global literature and engage in international discourse. This program is ideal for those who are passionate about political history, international relations, Middle East affairs, diplomacy or global studies, and want to contribute to academic research, policy-making, or international cooperation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts / Master of Science (M.A. / M.Sc.) — Thesis (Graduate Programme)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international, English)
- Admission semester: Fall semester (academic year start)
- Area of study: Middle East Political History & International Relations / Regional Studies & International Relations
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction / Eligible for international students
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Middle East Politics & History
- Introduction to Middle East Political History
- Theories of International Relations & Regional Dynamics
- Ottoman & Modern History of Middle East
- Academic English & Research Writing
Semester 2 – Regional Politics, Diplomacy & Conflict Studies
- Middle East Contemporary Politics & Governance
- Diplomacy and International Relations in Middle East Context
- Conflict, Peace and Security in the Middle East
- Elective Course I (e.g. Comparative Regional Studies, Migration, Human Rights)
Semester 3 – Societies, Culture & International Affairs
- Society, Politics & Culture in Middle Eastern States
- International Relations and Globalization Effects on Middle East
- Research Methods for Regional Studies & Qualitative/Quantitative Analysis
- Thesis Project Planning & Literature Review
Semester 4 – Thesis & Advanced Regional Research
- Master’s Thesis / Research Project on Middle East Political History or IR
- Thesis Defense & Presentation
- Seminar on Ethics & Contemporary Issues in Middle East Studies
- Graduation & Academic / Career Planning
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work as regional analysts, political consultants, policy advisors, researchers, diplomats, foreign service officers, journalists, NGO staff, think-tank experts, or academics focusing on Middle East studies, international relations or global affairs. They may join governmental institutions, international organisations, NGOs, media outlets, research centres, universities, or diplomatic services. With their deep understanding of Middle Eastern history, politics and global dynamics, they may contribute to policy-making, diplomacy, international cooperation, conflict resolution, human rights advocacy or academic research.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Middle East Political History and International Relations (English) master’s program at Marmara University means gaining deep insight into one of the world’s most dynamic and geopolitically important regions. You will learn historical roots, political systems and contemporary issues of Middle Eastern countries — and how international relations and global trends affect them. The English instruction and international environment give you a global perspective and prepare you for work with international organisations, diplomacy or research institutions.
Moreover, studying in Istanbul — a city that reflects cultural, geographic and historical intersections — gives you a unique vantage point to observe, research, and understand regional dynamics up close. The program combines academic rigour with real-world relevance — ideal for students who want to influence policy, contribute to international understanding, or build global careers in Middle East and international relations studies.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Institute for Middle East & Islamic Countries Studies
Middle East Political History & International Relations (M.A./M.Sc.) Program
Göztepe Campus, 34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 348 02 92
Fax: +90 216 348 02 91
Email: me_mideast@marmara.edu.tr
Institute for Middle East & Islamic Countries Studies – Student Affairs Office
Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 30 00
Fax: +90 216 777 30 01
Email: me_studentaffairs@marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 11 00
Fax: +90 216 777 11 01
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
