The Rich Reservoir Of Political Science Masters In Afghanistan

Afghanistan has a rich history of political science, with the subject being taught at several universities across the country. There are 5 universities offering master's programs in political science in Afghanistan, with a further 35 universities offering bachelor's programs. The American University of Afghanistan (AUAF) is the only private, liberal arts, not-for-profit, co-education university in the nation. It was founded in 2006 and has continued to educate hundreds of students in Afghanistan and among the diaspora, both online and in person.

Kabul University is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in Afghanistan. Faizullah Jalal, a law and political science professor at the university, has been an activist for human rights, peace, equality, and democracy in Afghanistan for almost four decades. He has authored several books, including 'Political Power and Nation-Building in Afghanistan' and 'An Inquiry into Violence Against Women in Afghanistan'.

The study of political science in Afghanistan covers a diverse curriculum, including international relations, comparative politics, and government and politics. The major also covers subfields such as anthropology, sociology, history, economics, and legal studies.

The number of master's programs in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has a rich history and culture, dating back to the Middle Paleolithic era. The country has been a crossroads of civilisations and has witnessed various military campaigns and empires throughout its history. Today, it is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordering several nations and home to a diverse population.

In terms of higher education, Afghanistan offers a range of academic programmes, including master's degrees. While the number of master's programmes in Afghanistan is not explicitly stated, we can look at the availability of master's programmes in Political Science as an example to gain some insight.

There are approximately five universities in Afghanistan that offer master's programmes in Political Science. These universities include Dunya University of Afghanistan, Nangarhar University, Kardan University, Dawat University, and Kardan Institute of Higher Education. These institutions provide students with the opportunity to pursue advanced studies and specialisations in Political Science.

It is worth noting that Afghanistan has faced significant challenges in recent decades due to warfare, poverty, and political instability. These factors may have impacted the number and availability of master's programmes across the country. Additionally, the recent return of the Taliban rule in 2021 has led to uncertainties regarding female education, with restrictions imposed on female students and teachers in secondary schools.

Despite these challenges, Afghanistan continues to have a strong educational presence, with notable universities such as the American University of Afghanistan (AUAF) and Kabul University offering a range of programmes, including at the master's level. AUAF, in particular, has a unique status as the only private, liberal arts, not-for-profit, co-educational university in the nation.

Overall, while the exact number of master's programmes in Afghanistan may vary depending on the field of study and the institution, the country does offer advanced educational opportunities for students seeking to further their knowledge and skills.

Universities offering master's programs in political science

Afghanistan has a rich history of higher education institutions, with many universities offering master's programs in political science. Here is a detailed list of some of the prominent universities:

Dunya Institute for Higher Education

The Dunya University of Afghanistan is an independent institution established in partnership with the Swiss UMEF University, a private Swiss university based in Geneva. This university is one of the five universities offering master's programs in political science in Afghanistan.

Nangarhar University

Nangarhar University, located in Jalalabad, is the second-largest educational institution in Afghanistan after Kabul University. Recognized by UNESCO, it offers a range of programs, including a master's in political science.

Kardan University

Kardan University was founded in 2002 by Roeen Rahmani and his friends, who started with an overhead projector and a rented room to teach business management to young Afghans. The university has since expanded and now offers a variety of programs, including a master's in political science.

Dawat Institute of Higher Education

Dawat University is a private university registered with the Afghan government. Founded by Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf, it offers a range of programs, including a master's in political science.

Kabul University

Kabul University, located in the heart of Kabul, is one of the oldest and most prominent institutions of higher education in Afghanistan. It offers a diverse range of programs, including a master's in political science. The university has a long history of academic excellence and is known for its research and contributions to various fields.

The American University of Afghanistan

The American University of Afghanistan is a private, liberal arts, not-for-profit, co-educational university. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a master's in political science and public administration. The university has a strong focus on academic freedom and equal opportunities for women.

Afghanistan Institute of Higher Education

The Afghanistan Institute of Higher Education offers a master's program in international relations, which falls under the umbrella of political science. The university aims to produce valuable scientific services and has established a scientific research center in collaboration with professors and researchers in political and international studies.

These universities offer a diverse range of master's programs in political science, contributing to the academic landscape of Afghanistan. Each institution has its unique history, reputation, and areas of expertise, providing students with a variety of educational opportunities.

Admissions criteria for master's programs in political science

Admissions criteria for masters programs in political science

Overview

A master's degree in political science is a postgraduate program that typically lasts two years. It provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in political theory, international relations, comparative politics, and public administration. The program prepares graduates for careers in government, politics, public policy, international relations, and academia.

Admissions Criteria

• A bachelor's degree: Most programs require a bachelor's degree in political science or a related field such as arts, humanities, or social sciences. Some universities may also accept applicants with a bachelor's degree in any discipline.
• Minimum GPA or percentage: Universities typically require a minimum GPA or percentage in the bachelor's degree, ranging from 45% to 55%.
• Entrance exams: Some universities require applicants to take entrance exams, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
• Letters of recommendation: Many programs require two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
• Statement of purpose: Applicants are usually asked to submit a statement of purpose or personal statement explaining their interest in the program and their career goals.
• English language proficiency: For programs taught in English, international students may be required to submit English language test scores, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Additional Requirements

In addition to the above criteria, some universities may have additional requirements, such as:

• Research proposal: Some programs, especially those with a research focus, may require applicants to submit a research proposal outlining their intended research topic and methodology.
• Work experience: Some programs may prefer or require applicants to have relevant work experience, especially for professional master's programs.
• Interviews: Some universities may conduct interviews, either in person or online, as part of the admissions process.

Application Process

The application process for master's programs in political science can vary depending on the university. Here are the general steps in the application process:

• Research and select universities: Applicants should research different universities and programs to find the best fit for their interests and career goals.
• Check admissions deadlines: Universities typically have specific deadlines for submitting applications, which can vary depending on the university and program.
• Prepare and submit the required documents: Applicants need to gather and submit the required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and English language test scores.
• Await admissions decision: After submitting the application, applicants will need to wait for the university to review their application and make a decision.
• Accept offer and enroll: If admitted, applicants will need to accept the offer and complete any necessary enrollment procedures, such as paying the enrollment fee and registering for courses.

Master's programs in political science offer a range of career opportunities and can be a great way to develop advanced knowledge and skills in the field. It is important for applicants to carefully review the admissions criteria and requirements for their chosen universities and programs to ensure they meet all the necessary qualifications and submit a strong application.

Funding for master's programs in political science

University Funding:

• Stanford University: Offers a fully funded financial package for doctoral students for up to five years, covering tuition and living expenses.
• University of Chicago: Provides full funding to all admitted doctoral students, including tuition, an annual stipend, and health insurance.
• George Washington University: Guarantees five years of funding for its Ph.D. in Political Science program.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Aims to provide merit-based funding for five consecutive years, covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.
• University of Minnesota: Offers full funding to all incoming doctoral students through fellowships, research and teaching assistantships, or graduate instructorships.
• New York University (NYU): Provides full funding to all incoming students through MacCracken fellowships, which include tuition and a stipend.
• University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill: Offers fellowships and assistantships to most students to fund their academic studies and living expenses.
• University of Notre Dame: Provides guaranteed financial support to admitted students for five years, including tuition and a stipend.
• Vanderbilt University: Provides full funding to all doctoral students for five years, covering tuition and living expenses.
• Washington University in St. Louis: Offers full funding to all incoming students, including tuition and a stipend for living expenses.

Private Organization Funding:

• American Political Science Association (APSA): Offers grants, fellowships, and other programs to support individual research. Examples include the Warren E. Miller Fellowship in Electoral Politics and the Paul A. Volcker Endowment for Public Service Research and Education.
• National Science Foundation (NSF): Supports work that promotes the understanding of government, citizenship, and politics. Offers Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants and other grant opportunities.
• Dirksen Congressional Center: Funds projects that enhance the public's understanding of the federal legislature. Offers the Robert H. Michel Special Project Grants, with awards ranging from $2,500 to $5,000.
• Harry S. Truman Library Institute for National and International Affairs: Provides grants twice a year for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars to use the library's collections for research projects on public policy or foreign policy. Grants can be up to $2,500.
• Amnesty International USA: Offers the Ladis Kristof Memorial Fellowship for Organizing and Activism, which includes an eight-week residency with an AIUSA Regional Field Organizer.
• International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES): Awards two $5,000 Democracy Studies Fellowships annually to graduate students researching democracy development, election administration, or civic participation.

Government Funding:

• National Institute of Justice Graduate Research Fellowship: Provides dissertation research support to doctoral students focusing on issues related to crime and justice.
• US Department of Education: Offers the Jacob K. Javits Fellowship Program, which provides financial assistance to students demonstrating superior academic ability, exceptional promise, and financial need in graduate studies.

The impact of the Taliban on master's programs in Afghanistan

Since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, the country's education system has undergone significant changes, with severe consequences for students and academics. The Taliban's interpretation of Sharia law has guided their decisions regarding education, particularly for women. The group has banned female students from attending universities, reversing two decades of progress in girls' and women's education. This ban has affected an estimated 90,000 women and has led many to turn to online alternatives, although internet connectivity issues and a lack of job prospects remain challenges.

The Taliban's policies have also impacted master's programs in Afghanistan. The Taliban's restrictions on women's education have resulted in the departure of female academics from the country, with those who had international connections or were part of international Ph.D. programs being among the first to leave. This brain drain has deprived Afghan universities of some of their best faculty members. Additionally, the Taliban's strict dress codes, censorship, and erratic enforcement of restrictions have created an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship among those who remain.

The Taliban's changes to the curriculum have also affected master's programs. They have removed subjects such as art, culture, and civic education, replacing them with additional hours of Islamic studies. This shift towards religious education has raised concerns about the radicalisation of the education system and the potential indoctrination of students.

The economic collapse that followed the Taliban's takeover has further impacted master's programs. Many students have had to drop out of their programs to provide for their families, and international partnerships that supported higher education have been frozen. However, some international programs are attempting to help scholars and students, such as the American University of Afghanistan, which continues to recruit students online. Additionally, the Yunus Center at the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand is working to set up a Master's program for Afghan students.

Despite these efforts, the future of master's programs in Afghanistan remains uncertain. The Taliban's control over the country is uneven, and their policies towards education continue to be a source of concern. The long-term impact of their decisions on master's programs and the broader education system in Afghanistan remains to be seen.

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