Political Science and Public Administration

The undergraduate program of the Faculty of Political Sciences, Department of Political Science and Public Administration at the American University of Cyprus is dedicated to the scientific study of political and administrative phenomena in both theoretical and practical dimensions. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in the core areas of political science, including authority, legitimacy, social structures, class dynamics, gender, nationalism, political parties, political participation, political ideologies, and systems of governance.

A key strength of the department lies in its interdisciplinary approach, which integrates the field of public administration with disciplines such as law, urban studies, environmental policy, public policy analysis, and local governance. This multifaceted framework enables students to develop a deep and nuanced understanding of the complex mechanisms through which political and administrative systems operate at both national and global levels.

In addition to a robust academic curriculum, the department places strong emphasis on cultivating individuals who are capable of critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and independent intellectual inquiry. Our goal is to educate well-rounded graduates with a modern academic foundation and an intellectual identity that meets the standards of the information age and the demands of a globally connected society.

The program is further enriched by a diverse range of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their personal interests and career aspirations. These electives, along with access to up-to-date research and current developments in the field, ensure that students receive an education that is both versatile and aligned with contemporary global challenges.

Mission

The mission of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration is to educate professionals who are equipped to perform effectively in both national and international arenas, across public and private sectors. We aim to nurture individuals who can engage in interdisciplinary work, conduct scientific research, embrace innovation, and commit to continuous self-improvement.
Our graduates are envisioned as open-minded, enterprising, and solution-oriented leaders who possess the capacity to work effectively both independently and within teams. They are expected to play active roles in the evolving global order, demonstrating leadership, professional ethics, and a strong command of analytical and critical thinking. Ultimately, the department is committed to producing public administrators and political scientists who are innovative, ethically grounded, and prepared to meet the demands of a complex and dynamic world.

Vision

The Department of Political Science and Public Administration aspires to be a leading academic unit recognized for its alignment with international standards in education, and for fostering graduates who are both theoretically competent and practically skilled. Our vision is to cultivate creative, up-to-date, and intellectually equipped individuals with strong written and oral communication abilities. Committed to ethical values in commerce, politics, and public management, the department seeks to enrich its educational offerings through interdisciplinary collaboration and to advance a model of education centered on critical thinking and scientific interpretation of contemporary issues.

General Information

The primary goal of the Political Science and Public Administration undergraduate program is to provide comprehensive knowledge of the various subfields of political science and public administration while instilling the fundamental principles of the discipline. Additionally, students have the opportunity to take elective courses from other faculties. Assessment for each semester is typically based on homework, quizzes, mid-term exams, and final exams. In the third and final years, students engage in projects that focus on both theoretical and practical aspects, further developing their analytical and problem-solving skills.

Education

All courses and exams in the program are conducted in English, providing students with the opportunity to enhance their foreign language skills and actively engage in academic and social activities. A key feature of the program is its small class sizes, fostering personalized interaction and close supervision between students, instructors, and academic advisors. This environment helps students build self-confidence, adopt a participatory mindset, and cultivate critical thinking. The academic team is diverse and committed to supporting students in achieving their goals.

Facilities

Students in the program have access to two computer labs, all equipped with free Internet connections. The integration of video, projectors, computers, and the Internet in multimedia classes creates an engaging learning environment that fosters creativity. Regularly updated textbooks and lesson plans ensure students stay informed about the latest developments in relevant fields.

Career Opportunities

Our successful graduates will be well-prepared to pursue postgraduate studies in various MA programs. They will also be strong candidates for expert roles across a range of positions in scientific research, public service, and political organizations. Furthermore, the program enhances students’ abilities in reading, writing, analysis, and critical thinking. Graduates will also gain the skills to effectively present scientific topics, engage in discussions, and utilize the internet for both social and academic purposes—skills that will significantly enhance their employability in the private sector.