Department Chair
Dear Students,
The field of international relations is not just a subject of study, but a living, breathing entity that is increasingly shaping our globalized world. The evolving dynamics between states and the latest global developments have a direct or indirect impact on the lives of individuals, making the study of international relations more relevant than ever.
At the Department of International Relations at Istanbul Kent University, we don't just focus on international relations. Our curriculum, designed with an interdisciplinary approach, delves into academic fields such as political science, sociology, international economics, Turkish foreign policy, international law, European Union, European Union law, human rights law, international security and political history. This diverse range of subjects ensures that our students are intellectually stimulated and well-rounded in their understanding of global issues.
International relations: It also includes relations between actors such as interstate relations, non-governmental organizations, international global and regional organizations, multinational companies and individuals. Therefore, the Department of International Relations graduates must know and evaluate states' foreign policies and the needs and behaviour patterns of international organizations and non-state actors.
On the other hand, many elective courses have been added to the department curriculum so that students can take classes according to their wishes. In addition to field courses, the curriculum includes regional issues such as the USA, the European Union, NATO, the Council of Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, Central Asia, Russia and the Caucasus, and international security problems such as environment, energy, global and regional security, and illegal migration.
In our increasingly globalized world, proficiency in just one foreign language is not enough. That's why we offer second foreign language courses to our students at the Department of International Relations. We also encourage our students to participate in the Erasmus+ Program, providing them with the opportunity to immerse themselves in other cultures and gain international experience. By studying abroad, our students not only enhance their language skills but also broaden their academic horizons and increase their global awareness.
In the Department of International Relations, students can perform scientific analyses and synthesise to write and speak effectively. This achievement aims to help students become confident leaders and guides in their public or private sector working environments. In this context, students are offered modern education and training opportunities in the education process, and lesson plans and contents are constantly updated.
We welcome you to the Department of International Relations at Istanbul Kent University in order to bring a unique perspective to Turkey and the world.
Dear Students,
The Department of International Relations (English) aims to provide graduate students with the necessary knowledge in international relations and global politics. We strive to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a solution-oriented mindset. Throughout the four-year multidisciplinary program, students will gain an understanding of the complexities of national and international political life and explore the diversity of actors, identities, cultures, issues, and political interactions at home and abroad.
The department's syllabus includes field courses such as International Relations Theories, International Law, foreign policy analysis, and Turkish foreign policy. Additionally, students can take regional studies courses on the Balkans, the Caucasus, Central Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. Courses on peace and conflict, security, environment, migration, strategy, gender, and more are also available.
Our program is not just about theoretical knowledge. We encourage our students to apply their learning in real-world situations. They are given opportunities to conduct research and development, take innovative initiatives in politics and international relations, and participate in social responsibility and social development support projects. This practical experience prepares them for the challenges they will face in their future careers.
As a department, we aim to ensure that all our students are prepared for the future by taking on tasks such as administrator, presenter, moderator, panellist/speaker and editor in courses and related scientific/academic activities. In this context, the department students organize panels, workshops, and conferences, and an English-Turkish magazine called Kent Politics Monthly, which deals with developments in international politics, has been published.
Our department's students improve their foreign language skills by taking all their courses in English. They also have opportunities to learn about other cultures, explore different academic perspectives, and gain international experience through programs like Erasmus+ and internships.
The final graduation projects, which represent four years of education and training, are original works created by the students with the guidance and support of academic advisors. During the preparation of these projects and presentations, students develop their creativity, analytical skills, visual design, communication, and software/program competencies. The projects are presented to an audience of classmates and before a jury of professors.
Our graduates can pursue further academic studies and find job opportunities in universities and various educational institutions, both domestically and internationally. Those interested in an academic career are encouraged to continue their education in master's and doctoral programs. Our department maintains a connection with our students even after they graduate.
As the Department of International Relations (English), we are committed to providing excellent education. We strive to not only equip our students with the necessary knowledge and skills but also to instill in them a sense of social and ethical responsibility. Our goal is to nurture creative leaders who will contribute positively to the future.
We are excited to welcome you as a member of our community.
Best regards