Overview

The Political Science and International Relations programme offered by Koc University provides doctoral training in political science and international relations, focusing on the analysis of global political dynamics, governance, and policy-making processes. It emphasizes the development of theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to examine how power, institutions, and societies interact in an increasingly interconnected world.

Key Facts

Students engage with core areas such as international relations theory, comparative politics, political theory, and international political economy. The programme integrates both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, enabling students to analyze complex political phenomena, evaluate policy issues, and develop evidence-based research in diverse regional and global contexts.

The programme supports academic and professional development through research collaboration, teaching experience, and international engagement. Students participate in research activities, contribute to scholarly work, and develop the ability to communicate findings effectively, culminating in independent research and a doctoral thesis.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

International Relations Theory
Comparative Politics
International Political Economy
Security and Conflict Studies
European Union and Globalization
Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-10-05 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Istanbul, Turkey

Disciplines

Political Science View 8 other PhDs in Political Science in Turkey

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Academic requirements

GPA

3

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Official transcripts required with minimum 3.00 GPA, including certified translations for international institutions
English proficiency required (TOEFL iBT, YDS, e-YDS, YÖKDİL, or e-YÖKDİL) with minimum score 80
GRE (for international applicants) or ALES (for Turkish applicants) required (BA: ALES 80 or GRE 156; MA: ALES 70 or GRE 153)
Statement of Purpose required (maximum 2,000 words)
3 letters of recommendation required, submitted online
Interview required as part of the admissions process
GRE/ALES and English scores can be submitted later but must be provided once available‌

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Koc University and/or in Turkey, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

Free

Additional Details

Fully-funded

Living costs

Istanbul

Turkey

2000 - 3240 TRY / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Political Science and International Relations.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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