M.A. in Political Science and International Relations

The degree program in Political Science and International relations offers a flexible and applied degree that is designed to train the next generation of political scientists as well as provide a solid generalist degree to prepare students in a variety of professions. It also provides excellent training for future graduate study.

Our small classes and student-centered approach mean that all of our students have the opportunity to develop close relationships with their instructors who can guide them into academic paths uniquely suited to them. Students have opportunities to get hands-on experience in laboratories and to participate in research projects independently or with their professors.

• The first English-language graduate-level political science and international relations program in Kazakhstan.
• 2-year funded all-English MA program with the possibility for study abroad.
• Taught by internationally-recognized faculty drawn from North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, with PhDs from North American or European universities.
• Advised and actively supported by the Political Science Department of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (USA).
• Advanced academic training for careers in government, international organizations, academia, or other fields related to governance and policy.
• Campus with modern facilities, labs, library, sports center, housing based on need, and a monthly stipend for selected students.
• Merit-based scholarships and discounts for international students.

General information

• Campus: Astana, Kazakhstan
• Language: English
• Delivery mode: Full-time, on-campus
• Duration: 2 years
• Total ECTS credits: 120

School of Sciences and Humanities

The academic staff at Nazarbayev University’s School of Sciences and Humanities comprises scholars with doctoral degrees from leading universities around the world. We also have researchers involved in various studies, and our scientists in the natural sciences conduct research in about 90 laboratories. Some of our faculty members even specialize in Eurasian studies. Admitted students of NU SSH can rest assured of tapping from our faculty’s wealth of knowledge and experience, both inside and outside the classroom.

We keep our classes small so students can readily receive one-on-one attention from their instructors. Moreover, instructors can tailor classes to the need of each student for the best learning experience owing to our student-centered learning. Our professors can work with the weaknesses of every student and improve their strengths. Laboratory experience and research involvement are not spared from this approach: our students get practical laboratory experience and collaborate with their colleagues or their professors in research.

Strategic partner

University of Wisconsin-Madison (USA)

Other strategic partners of Nazarbayev University

• Duke University, Fuqua School of Business (USA)
• The National University of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (Singapore)
• The University of Pennsylvania (USA)
• The University of Cambridge (UK)
• Colorado School of Mines (USA)
• The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (USA)
• The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (USA)
• The Oak Ridge Associated Universities (USA)