Political Science and Political Communication

The Department of Political Science and Political Communication at Tel Aviv University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary program dedicated to the study of political systems, government institutions, political behavior, and communication processes. This program is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of the political landscape both locally and globally, combining theoretical frameworks with practical skills needed for careers in policy analysis, journalism, international organizations, and civic engagement. Throughout the program, students explore diverse topics such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration, and the impact of media on politics. The curriculum includes courses that analyze electoral processes, political ideologies, government structures, and the role of communication in shaping public opinion and policy-making. Emphasizing research skills and critical thinking, the program encourages students to engage in empirical research, data analysis, and effective communication strategies. The academic environment fosters active participation, debates, and internships, providing students with real-world insights and opportunities to develop expertise in political analysis and communication strategies. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in political consultancy, journalism, international affairs, public policy, or further academic research. The program benefits from Tel Aviv University’s strong connections with governmental, non-governmental organizations, and media outlets, enhancing students' professional opportunities and enabling a practical understanding of political processes and media influence. Whether students aim to influence policy, work in media, or deepen their understanding of political dynamics, this program provides a robust foundation to succeed in the fast-changing world of politics and communication.

Core Courses

• Introduction to Leaders and Citizens: Balancing Expectations in Democracies
• Introduction to Political Communication
• Introduction to Politics
• Elections, Voters and Leaders
• Research Methods
• Theories of Political Leadership & Communication
• Political Economy in the Global Age
• Democratization, Leadership, Electoral Campaigns and Global Challenges
• Sites of Conflict and Political Horizons - Study tours

Elective Courses and Seminars

• The students will choose 3 elective courses from the following list (not all courses will be offered each year). Each course 3 hours per semester, altogether 9 hours per semester.
• Public Diplomacy and Propaganda
• Populist leadership in Fascist, Marxist and Democratic regimes
• Media, War and Peace
• Campaigns, Politics and Elections
• Cyber Warfare

Optional Thesis Track

Students who wish and are qualified to write a thesis are invited to do so. This in an independent research work of approximately 15,000-20,000 words exploring a subject / research question. In order to qualify for acceptance, a student is required to finish the first semester with an average of at least 86 in the core courses. In addition, the student needs to make contact with one of the faculty members listed in the program’s web site and get his/her acceptance to guide the writing of the thesis on an approved topic. The student will be required to enroll for a fourth semester (extra tuition of 5,000$). An extension of two additional semesters beyond that semester (500$ each semester) will be granted if necessary.

Requirements

• Copy of bachelor’s degree diploma
• Official transcripts from all higher education institutions you have attended.General GPA requirement of 80 on a scale of 100, 3.0 on a scale of 4.0, or C on the ECTS scale. These are approximate and candidates with other strengths are also encouraged to apply.o    If your transcripts are not written in English, you will need to acquire a translated copy which will need to be notarized for authenticity.
• Two letters of recommendation, from academic and/or professional sources
• Personal essay
• Resume/CV
• Your TOEFL or IELTS exam scores, if your native language is not English or your previous academic degree was not taught in English.Minimum TOEFL requirements: 573 on the paper based test; 230 on the computer based test; and 89 on the internet based test. The University's Code is 7704.Minimum IELTS requirements: Overall Band Score of 7.0.
• $100 USD application fee, payable by credit card or bank transfer.
• One passport sized photo
• A Health Declaration (to be filled out by the applicant) and a Medical Form (to be filled out by a licensed doctor). Medical form is not mandatory while an applicant's file is marked as 'Under Review,' but is highly suggested to be sent in as soon as possible.

tuition_fees: The tuition fees for the Political Science and Political Communication undergraduate program at Tel Aviv University vary depending on the student's residency status. For Israeli residents, the annual tuition fee is approximately ₪15,000 (Israeli New Shekels), while for international students, the fee is approximately ₪55,000 per year. These fees are subject to change and should be verified on the university's official website for the most current information.

Scholarships and financial aid: Tel Aviv University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options for both undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Political Science and Political Communication programs. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. Additionally, need-based grants are available for students demonstrating financial need, which can significantly reduce the cost of tuition. The university encourages eligible students to apply for these scholarships, which are competitive and require submission of supporting documents, such as academic transcripts and financial statements.

Research grants and assistantships: Students pursuing research components within their degrees may have access to research grants and assistantship positions. These positions typically involve assisting faculty members with ongoing research projects, which provides students with practical experience and a small stipend to support their studies. Application for such positions usually requires good academic standing and relevant interests aligned with the research areas of faculty members.

Government support and loans: The government of Israel provides various support mechanisms for higher education students, including student loans and grants. Israeli students can access government-sponsored student loan programs that offer favorable repayment terms and low-interest rates. International students may have limited access to such support, but some government or institutional grants may be available through bilateral agreements or special arrangements.

Part-time work opportunities: Tel Aviv University offers various part-time work opportunities within its campus, including positions in libraries, administrative offices, and research centers. Students are permitted to work part-time during their studies, subject to visa and work regulations, to help offset living expenses and tuition costs. These jobs also provide valuable professional experience relevant to their academic interests and future careers.

Cost-of-living considerations: In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses in Tel Aviv. The cost of living in Tel Aviv is relatively high; therefore, students often seek part-time work or scholarships to assist with expenses. Some students opt for university dormitories, which are more affordable and provide a supportive community environment.

Financial planning advice: Students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office early in their studies to explore all available funding options. Planning a detailed budget that includes tuition, accommodation, and personal expenses is essential for managing the financial aspects of studying in Tel Aviv. The university regularly updates its financial support programs, and prospective students are encouraged to review the latest information on the official university website or contact the admissions office directly for guidance on securing funding for their Political Science and Political Communication studies.

The Political Science and Political Communication programmes at Tel Aviv University offer students a comprehensive understanding of the political processes, theories, and communication strategies that shape contemporary societies. The Political Science track focuses on the analysis of political systems, institutions, ideologies, and governance, providing students with essential skills for careers in public service, research, and international organizations. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of political behavior and policy development. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public administration, preparing them for both academic and practical applications in political environments.

The Political Communication programme explores the interaction between media and politics, examining how information dissemination influences public opinion, electoral processes, and policy debates. Students learn about media strategies, digital communication, public relations, and the role of social media in modern political campaigns. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical skills in journalism, media production, and strategic communication, equipping students for careers in political journalism, media consultancy, and communication management. Both programmes benefit from faculty expertise, research centers, and partnerships with political institutions, enabling students to engage in internships and applied projects that enhance their professional readiness.

The faculty at Tel Aviv University fosters an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, psychology, economics, and law. Students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of political dynamics within Israeli society and globally. The programmes also emphasize the ethical dimensions of political communication and the importance of promoting democratic values and civic engagement. Graduates from these programmes have gone on to work in governmental agencies, international organizations, media outlets, NGOs, and academia, contributing to the development of informed and active citizens and policymakers. Overall, the programmes at Tel Aviv University aim to cultivate critical engagement, strategic communication skills, and a deep understanding of political systems, making graduates adaptable to the rapidly changing political landscape worldwide.