Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Political Science and International Relations at Istanbul Aydın University is a full-time, English-medium doctoral program designed to provide students with advanced theoretical and conceptual knowledge in the fields of political science and international relations. The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive range of subjects, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations theory, foreign policy, research methods, Turkish politics, and Turkish foreign policy. The program is structured to enable students to engage in rigorous academic research, culminating in the preparation and defense of a doctoral dissertation under the supervision of expert faculty members. The program spans four academic years, with the first year focusing on coursework and seminars, the second year dedicated to the doctoral qualifying exam, and the third and fourth years centered on thesis research and writing. Applicants are typically required to hold a relevant master’s degree and demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL IBT (minimum score of 84), YDS/YÖKDİL (minimum score of 70), or PTE (minimum score of 65) .
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Political Science and International Relations are well-equipped for careers in academia, research institutions, and various sectors of public and private organizations. They can pursue roles as university professors, policy analysts, political consultants, diplomats, or researchers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international corporations, and think tanks. The program’s emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills prepares graduates to contribute significantly to the analysis and development of political strategies and international policies .