Major: Public Policy (Kamu Politikası)
Program Overview
An interdisciplinary program that explores how governments design, implement, and evaluate policies to address societal challenges. Combines economics, political science, law, and data analysis to prepare graduates for careers in government, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations in Turkey and globally.
Key Learning Objectives
- Understand policy-making processes (agenda-setting, formulation, implementation).
- Analyze economic, social, and political impacts of public policies.
- Master quantitative and qualitative research methods (statistics, surveys, case studies).
- Develop skills in policy analysis, writing, and communication.
- Explore ethics, governance, and public administration.
- Examine Turkish and global policy challenges (e.g., healthcare, education, environment).
- Apply data-driven decision-making to real-world problems.
Core Courses
- Introduction to Public Policy
- Theories, actors, and stages of the policy cycle.
- Economics for Public Policy
- Microeconomics, macroeconomics, and cost-benefit analysis.
- Political Science and Governance
- Political systems, institutions, and public administration.
- Policy Analysis and Evaluation
- Frameworks, tools, and impact assessment.
- Quantitative Methods for Policy
- Statistics, econometrics, and data visualization (R, Python, Stata).
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Interviews, focus groups, and content analysis.
- Public Finance and Budgeting
- Taxation, spending, and fiscal policy.
- Social Policy
- Healthcare, education, welfare, and inequality.
- Environmental and Urban Policy
- Sustainability, climate change, and city planning.
- Turkish Public Policy
- Historical context, current debates, and EU alignment.
- Global Public Policy
- International organizations (UN, IMF, WHO) and comparative policy.
- Capstone Project
- Develop a policy proposal, research paper, or case study on a pressing issue.
Assessment Methods
- Policy briefs and memos
- Research papers and literature reviews
- Data analysis projects (e.g., using R or Python)
- Case study presentations
- Capstone project defense
Tools & Resources
- Software: R, Python, Stata, SPSS, Tableau
- Databases: World Bank, OECD, TÜİK (Turkish Statistical Institute)
- Books:
- Policy Analysis: Concepts and Practice by David Weimer
- The Politics of Public Policy by B. Guy Peters
- Evidence-Based Policy Making by Nancy Cartwright
Prerequisites
- Interest in politics, economics, or social issues.
- Strong analytical and writing skills required.
Program Duration
- 4 years (bachelor’s) or 1–2 years (master’s).
Certifications (Optional)
- Certificates in Public Administration (e.g., from Turkish Public Administration Institute)
- Data Analysis Certifications (e.g., Google Data Analytics)
Career Paths
- Policy Analyst (government agencies, think tanks)
- Public Administrator (ministries, municipalities)
- Researcher (universities, research institutes)
- NGO Program Manager (international organizations, non-profits)
- Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- Consultant (private sector, public sector)
- Legislative Assistant (parliament, political parties)
- Journalist (Policy Reporter) (media outlets)
- Advocacy Specialist (NGOs, advocacy groups)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s complex policy landscape (e.g., economic reforms, EU accession, social welfare) and global challenges (e.g., migration, climate change) create high demand for public policy experts. This program provides analytical and practical training to design and evaluate policies that shape societies. Ideal for those passionate about solving public problems, influencing governance, and creating social impact.
