Political Science and International Relations
The Political Science and International Relations (English) programme at Marmara University is a four-year undergraduate degree taught fully in English. This programme is for students who want to study politics, global affairs and world history — and understand how countries interact, how international organisations work, and how global issues like security, economy, and environment connect. Students learn core courses in political science, international relations, history, law, sociology and economics. They also examine critical topics like international organisations, global conflicts, regional politics, security, human rights and diplomacy. Through theory and debates, students build analytical skills and learn to think about global issues from different perspectives.
Located in Istanbul — a global city bridging continents — this programme offers a unique chance to see real-world politics and many cultural, economic and social interactions. With experienced academic staff, up-to-date courses, and English-medium instruction, students are prepared to study, work or conduct research internationally. The programme helps students become thoughtful, informed, and globally aware citizens, ready to understand and shape world politics.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor degree (B.A. / B.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters (4 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, international, English)
- Admission semester: Fall semester (first year start)
- Area of study: Political Science & International Relations
- Admission modus: Regular national admission (EA score type)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Political Science & Global Studies
- Introduction to Political Science
- Introduction to International Relations
- History of World Civilizations I
- Academic English / Preparatory English (if needed)
Semester 2 – Core Concepts and Social Sciences Foundations
- Comparative Politics
- International Politics
- Basics of Sociology or Economics for Social Sciences
- Foreign Language or Academic Skills
Semester 3 – Political Systems, Law & Institutions
- Political Theory / Political Philosophy
- Public International Law / International Law Basics
- Political Sociology or Social Research Methods
- History of Modern World Politics
Semester 4 – Global Issues, Security and Diplomacy
- Security Studies / Conflict & Crisis Management
- International Organizations
- Regional Politics (Middle East / Europe / Asia / etc.)
- Elective (e.g. environmental politics, human rights, foreign policy)
Semester 5 – Comparative & Regional Politics
- Balkan / Middle East / Asia / Global Region Politics (rotating topics)
- Globalization Dynamics & Global Governance
- Research Methods in Social Sciences
- Elective / Language / Skill course
Semester 6 – Contemporary Global Challenges & Policy Analysis
- Global Economy & International Political Economy
- International Security & Peace Studies
- Diplomatic History / Foreign Policy Analysis
- Elective or Social Science Elective
Semester 7 – Advanced Topics & Project Work
- Conflict Resolution & Crisis Management (advanced)
- Environmental Politics / Human Rights / International Law (elective)
- Research Project / Term Paper / Seminar
- Elective / Language Skills
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Career Preparation
- Senior Project / Thesis / Capstone Project
- Professional Ethics & International Relations Practice
- Seminar / Internship / Career Planning
- Elective / Language or Skill Course
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme can work as political analysts, diplomats, foreign service officers, international organisation staff, policy advisors, or researchers in think tanks. They may find roles in government ministries, embassies, NGOs, media, international companies, or consultancy firms dealing with global affairs, diplomacy, human rights, security, or development. Other possible fields include journalism, international law, global trade, public policy, and academia. Because the programme is taught in English, graduates are well-prepared for international jobs or cooperation with global institutions. They may also continue with postgraduate studies (master’s or PhD) in international relations, political science, public policy, global governance or related areas.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Political Science and International Relations (English) programme at Marmara University means joining a vibrant academic environment that helps you understand world politics, society and global change. You will learn how nations interact, how global policies are formed, and how political, economic, legal, and social factors shape our world. With English instruction, you have a global outlook — ready for international studies or careers. The program develops your critical thinking, research and communication skills, and helps you see different perspectives on global issues.
Moreover, studying in Istanbul — a city with international connections, cultural diversity, and global awareness — gives you many opportunities to engage with real-world political and social dynamics. The mix of theory, practice and global approach makes the programme ideal for students interested in international affairs, diplomacy, human rights, or global governance. If you are curious about the world, want to follow global events, and want to shape positive change — this programme offers the foundation and tools for you.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Faculty of Political Sciences
Department of Political Science and International Relations
Sultanahmet Campus
34110 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 514 04 10
Fax: +90 212 526 41 93
Email: psir@marmara.edu.tr
Faculty of Political Sciences – Student Affairs Office
Marmara University
Sultanahmet Campus
34110 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 514 04 10 (ext.)
Fax: +90 212 514 04 11
Email: sbfogrenciisleri@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
