BA in Political Science & IR FAQs

1. Why should I study Political Science & International Relations at Anatolia American University?

The BA in Political Science & International Relations at Anatolia American University is designed for students who want to understand how political systems, international institutions, societies, and global challenges interact. Students explore both theory and current affairs, gaining a strong foundation in political science and international relations while developing the ability to analyze complex local, regional, and global issues.

The program is a strong choice for students interested in diplomacy, international organizations, public policy, human rights, European affairs, NGOs, security, public administration, research, journalism, or civic engagement.

2. What makes this Political Science & International Relations program at Anatolia University different?

The program is shaped by Anatolia American University’s international, intercultural, and cosmopolitan academic environment. Students study political and international issues in Thessaloniki, a city with strong historical, cultural, and geopolitical connections to Southeast Europe, the Mediterranean, and the wider world.

The presence of the Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center also adds a distinctive dimension to the student experience, connecting classroom learning with public dialogue, civic engagement, policy discussion, and interaction with professionals and public figures.

3. What will I study in the Political Science & International Relations program?

Students take courses in areas such as political science theory, international relations theory, international law, European integration, security, foreign policy, globalization, democracy, equality, rights and justice, citizenship, culture, gender, and the social sciences.

The curriculum helps students understand both the ideas and the institutions that shape political life. It also encourages them to examine contemporary challenges from multiple perspectives, including local, regional, European, and global viewpoints.

4. What is the role of the Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center?

The Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center supports the program’s academic mission by creating opportunities for public engagement, dialogue, events, internships, and activities connected to public service, civic life, diplomacy, and international affairs.

Through the Center, students may have opportunities to interact with scholars, diplomats, policymakers, public figures, journalists, researchers, and professionals working in fields related to politics and international affairs.

5. Can I gain hands-on experience during the program?

Yes. The program encourages applied learning through opportunities that may include internships, the Practicum module, research projects, public discussions, events, and activities connected to the Michael and Kitty Dukakis Center.

These experiences help students connect academic study with professional and civic practice, explore possible career directions, and better understand how political science and international relations operate beyond the classroom.

6. Is this degree a good choice if I want to work in diplomacy or international organizations?

Yes. Political Science & International Relations is a strong foundation for students interested in diplomacy, international organizations, European affairs, public policy, NGOs, advocacy, global governance, and international cooperation.

Students develop knowledge of political systems, international institutions, law, security, policy, and global issues, while also building the analytical, writing, communication, and research skills that these fields require.

7. What career paths can graduates pursue with a degree in Political Science & International Relations?

Graduates may pursue careers in fields connected to politics, public affairs, international relations, and civic life. Possible pathways include:

• International organizations
• Non-governmental organizations
• Public administration
• Diplomacy and public service
• Policy analysis
• Think tanks and research institutions
• Advocacy and human rights organizations
• Security-related organizations
• Journalism and political communication
• Education and academic research

The degree also develops transferable skills in critical thinking, research, writing, argumentation, intercultural understanding, and communication, which are valuable in many professional environments.

8. What skills will I develop through this degree?

Students develop the ability to analyze political systems, interpret international developments, understand policy debates, evaluate evidence, and communicate complex ideas clearly. They also strengthen their research, writing, presentation, negotiation, and argumentation skills.

These skills are useful not only in politics and international affairs, but also in communication, education, research, public service, business, NGOs, and other fields that require strong analytical and intercultural abilities.

9. What graduate studies can this program lead to?

The degree can serve as a foundation for master’s or doctoral studies in Greece or abroad. Possible postgraduate pathways include international relations, political science, public policy, human rights, international law, European studies, diplomacy, security studies, criminology, development studies, public administration, and related fields.