Studying Political Science and Public Administration in Turkey is a great opportunity to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
If you are interested in politics, public administration or international relations, now is the perfect time to study these subjects in Turkey! But which universities are really good at it?
Also, universities in Turkey prepare students for the real world with both theoretical courses and field studies. You will learn not only from books but also from Turkey’s current political atmosphere.
Well, which universities stand out in this regard?
Best Political Science and Public Administration Universities
1. Boğaziçi University – Political Science and International Relations
Boğaziçi University is known for its academic staff and the opportunity to study in English. Students gain comprehensive knowledge on global policy analysis and Turkey’s political structure.
- Why Choose
The international publications of the academic staff, the activity of student societies and exchange programs. - Application Tips:
High TOEFL or IELTS score is important. Emphasize a global perspective in your motivational letter. - For More Information: Boğaziçi University
2. Ankara University – Faculty of Political Sciences (SBF)
One of the oldest political science faculties in Turkey, SBF is known as “Mülkiye”. Its graduates have a strong network in the public sector.
- Why to choose it?
Excellent balance of theoretical knowledge and field work. Strong links with public institutions. - Application Tips:
Academic achievement and interest in social issues are important. - For More Information: Ankara University
3. Istanbul University – Faculty of Political Sciences
Istanbul University, one of the oldest universities in Turkey, has a strong infrastructure both historically and academically.
- Why to Choose?”
Extensive academic resources, active student clubs and community research projects. - Application Tips:
Promote research-oriented work. - For More Information: Istanbul University
4. Middle East Technical University (METU) – Political Science and Public Administration
ODTÜ is known for its innovative education approach and strong academic staff. The opportunity to study in English is a great advantage for international students.
- Why to choose it?
English courses, Erasmus exchange programs and active student communities. - Application Tips:
High English proficiency and a strong motivation letter are important. - For More Information: Orth East Technical University
5. Marmara University – Faculty of Political Sciences
Marmara University offers theoretical and practical experience to political science students with the dynamic structure of Istanbul.
- Why to Choose?
Course contents focused on both public administration and international relations. - Application Tips:
Highlight your participation in community projects in your application. - For More Information: Marmara University
What do political science and public administration students do?
After studying Political Science and Public Administration in Turkey, there is a wide range of career opportunities for international students. International students can evaluate career opportunities both in Turkey and in their home countries.
Graduates of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration have a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors thanks to their extensive knowledge.
Job Opportunities in the Public Sector
The most common and well-known career path for graduates of this department is working for the government. For most positions, it is necessary to take the Public Personnel Selection Examination (KPSS) and the institutions’ own special exams.
- Regency and Administrative Judgeships: Highly prestigious and challenging career options, especially for those aiming for public administration. Special exams organized by the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Justice can be used to enter these positions.
- Specialists and Inspectors: They can work as assistant specialists, assistant inspectors or auditors in various ministries (Finance, Interior, Foreign Affairs, etc.), institutions such as Court of Accounts, Council of State. For these positions, it is necessary to take the KPSS “Group A” exams.
- Civil Service: With central appointments through KPSS “Group B” exams, they can work in positions such as civil servants, data preparation and control operators in many public institutions and municipalities.
Private Sector and Other Areas
Not only civil service, graduates can also find a place for themselves in the private sector.
- Banking and Finance: They can work as inspectors, specialists or managers in banks.
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and International Organizations: They can work as project coordinators, researchers or managers in international organizations such as the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU) or local CSOs.
- Consulting and Strategy Firms: They can specialize in areas such as political analysis, policy formulation and strategy consulting.
- Academic Career: They can continue as academicians in universities by doing master’s and doctorate.
In summary, the career paths of Political Science and Public Administration graduates are very diverse. The important thing is to decide which field to focus on and develop yourself in that field. In particular, a good knowledge of foreign languages and the ability to think analytically make graduates stand out from their competitors.
For more information on work permits in Turkey, visit T.C. Ministry of Labor and Social Security Official Website
Scholarship and Internship Tips
1. Turkey Scholarships
One of the most comprehensive scholarship programs for international students. It provides educational expenses, dormitory accommodation and monthly scholarship support.
- Who Can Apply?
International students with a successful academic record and active in social activities. - How to Apply?
YTB makes online application through its official website.
For detailed information and application Turkey Scholarships Official Website
2. YTB Scholarships (Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities)
Offers full scholarship support especially for students from Turkish and related communities.
- What’s Covered?
Education, accommodation and health insurance. - Application Period:
Applications are usually received in January and February.
For detailed information about YTB scholarship programs, visit YTB Official Website
3. Erasmus and Mevlana Programs
Opportunity to exchange in European or Asian countries while studying in Turkey.
- Erasmus:
Exchange with universities in Europe. Scholarships are provided for tuition and living expenses. - Mevlana:
Exchange program with universities in Asia and the Middle East.
For information on Erasmus and Mevlana applications, visit the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) Official Website
4. Where does political science and public administration do internship?
For foreign students, internships in Turkey are a great way to put theoretical knowledge into practice.
- Municipalities and Ministries:
Internships on social policies and local government practices. - NGOs and Research Centers:
You can gain experience in social project management and field work. - University Career Centers:
Guides students about internship and job opportunities.
For information about internship opportunities in Turkey, visit Kariyer Kapısı
Is it difficult to study Political Science and Public Administration?
It is definitely a labor-intensive department. Political theories, public policy and social research make for an intensive curriculum. However, thanks to practical projects and internship opportunities, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice.
It is important to keep yourself up to date and closely follow the agenda of Turkey and the world. As your political analysis skills improve, you will enjoy the lessons more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Public Administration Difficult?
The multidisciplinary nature requires knowledge from different fields such as law, economics and political science. In addition to theoretical knowledge, it is also important to learn how this knowledge is applied in public institutions.
This field can be challenging for some, requiring analytical thinking skills, disciplined work and the ability to find solutions to complex problems. However, these challenges also offer rich career opportunities for those motivated to serve the public.
Can someone studying Political Science and Public Administration become a prosecutor?
Yes, they can. Graduates of Political Science and Public Administration can apply for the exams required to become a prosecutor, provided that they have graduated from the Faculty of Law.
How much does Political Science and Public Administration earn?
The average monthly salary of a Public Relations Specialist is set at 48,200 TL (1,205 USD). In 2025, the lowest salary is 40,000 TL (1,000 USD) and the highest is 65,600 TL (1,640 USD).