Faculty of Business and Administrative Sciences

The era we live in is marked by profound transformations across all dimensions of domestic politics, public administration, and the global system. As the interaction between domestic and international politics increasingly shapes these changes, the need for individuals who can analyze and interpret the dynamics of this transformation is more critical than ever. The Department of Political Science and International Relations at Istanbul Okan University offers an interdisciplinary education designed for students who wish to understand and engage with these evolving dynamics.

Our department’s comprehensive curriculum fosters analytical thinking and problem-solving skills across a wide range of fields, including political science, political philosophy and theory, international relations, comparative politics, world political history, foreign policy analysis, Turkish politics, public policy, local governance and history of Turkey, international organizations, and diplomacy. Students gain both a solid theoretical foundation in political science and a practical understanding of global affairs.

Graduates of Political Science and International Relations find career opportunities in a variety of fields, including:

• Public institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Trade;
• Local administrations, including municipalities, governorships, and development agencies;
• International organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, and NATO;
• Think tanks, non-governmental organizations, media outlets, and consultancy firms;
• Private sector departments such as human resources, foreign trade, and international marketing.

With its vision of being the university closest to the business world, Istanbul Okan University equips students not only with academic knowledge but also with real-world experience. In addition to education in strategic languages such as Russian, Chinese, and German alongside English, the department offers opportunities for double majors, minors, and international exchange programs. Through internships and COOP programs developed in collaboration with key sectors, our students are well-prepared for life after graduation.

In today’s rapidly changing world, we welcome all students who aspire to make an impact both in Turkey and globally - those who aim to contribute to social transformation, participate in decision-making processes, and most importantly, who are curious, thoughtful, and eager to question, research, and create together.