The MA Program in Political Science aims to equip students with the knowledge and research skills necessary for research careers at academic institutions as well as research-intensive careers in the public sector, private sector, and civil society organizations. Bilkent POLS MA has a stellar reputation among leading universities worldwide and offers students a launch pad for advancing their research careers. Graduates placed in Ph.D. programs find the MA Program to be an excellent preparation for further studies. Many others who take up research-intensive positions in international organizations, government agencies, and private sector companies report that the research skills they acquired in the Program are unmatched.
The standard MA curriculum commences with a full year of coursework. These courses aim to equip students with substantive knowledge in the discipline of Political Science as anchored in the Social Sciences and diverse methodological skills. Upon successfully completing, students begin to work on their theses. All candidates for the MA in Political Science must complete their degree in three years.
The Department strives to support all MA students with full tuition waivers and research assistantships. Some students may receive additional funding through research assistantships funded by external institutions such as TÜBİTAK.
When writing their theses, students receive individual attention from their supervisors. Some students also receive training-through-research as they collaborate with faculty members in research projects funded by external institutions such as TÜBİTAK. This intensive research experience prepares MA candidates for Ph.D. programs where they further their academic training or for careers in the public sector, private sector, international organizations, or civil society institutions where they carry out research-oriented tasks. Ideal candidates who would benefit most from the MA program are successful students who are highly motivated to advance their professional, technical, and methodological skills in Political Science. We evaluate applicants based on their research interests and curiosities, communication skills, and academic preparation, as evident in ALES/GRE scores, writing samples, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. We give careful attention to the motivation and preparation of each applicant and aim at a holistic assessment of skills and competencies.
The Curriculum
| Course Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GE 500 | Research Methods and Academic Publication Ethics |
| GE 590 | Academic Practices |
| GE 551 | Pre-Thesis Seminar I |
| POLS 599 | Master’s Thesis |
| Research Methods Elective | |
| Restricted Electives (3) | |
| Specialization Elective | |
| Unrestricted Electives (3) |
Apply to the M.A. Program
Program Information: For more detailed information, please follow the link.
Online Application: Please submit an online application here.
Requirements: These are the minimum necessary scores for applying to the Political Science Master of Arts (M.A.) program.
CGPA: 2.75/4.00
GRE: 302 (verbal and quantitative total + minimum 4.0 analytical)
ALES: 65 (equally-weighted)
Important Note: International candidates and those who are citizens of the Republic of Turkiye and studied their undergraduate abroad may apply with GRE results instead of ALES.
English Proficiency: At least one of the requirements below
- TOEFL IBT (at least 87)
- IELTS (at least 6.5 average and 5.5 from each section)
- Bilkent PAE (at least C)
Please note that the validity period for all exams is 2 years.
Proof of Degree: Undergraduate degree
Transcripts: Undergraduate transcripts
Statement of Purpose: 500 words max. (reasons for applying to M.A., research and career interests)
Letter of Recommendation: 3 Letters of recommendation to be submitted online by the referees
Other: A writing sample
Application Deadline: 15 May 2024
Date of Interview: 06-07 June 2024
IMPORTANT NOTE: Incomplete applications will not be considered (At the time of application, the applicant should upload ALES or GRE scores or relevant exam application documents).
Contact:
Ms. Yasemin Şahbudak
POLS Admin. Assistant
E-mail: polsgrad@bilkent.edu.tr
Phone: +90 312 290 1339
Fax: +90 312 290 2742