The Alliance of Civilizations Institute at Ibn Haldun University brings together a multifaceted environment for advanced research and learning in Civilization Studies. Located in Istanbul, a city that has served for centuries as a bridge between East and West, the Institute immerses students in a setting where diverse cultures, languages, and histories overlap. This unique backdrop reinforces the Institute’s commitment to exploring civilizations in their global interconnectedness.
ACI’s home at the historical Süleymaniye Campus adds another dimension to its academic ambiance. The campus is surrounded by iconic architecture that speaks to Istanbul’s rich heritage, creating a vibrant setting for both scholarly pursuits and everyday life. Studying in this historic environment encourages a deeper appreciation of the complexities of civilization and inspires intellectual curiosity.
By blending elements of history, literature, art, sociology, and political science, the Institute fosters a holistic view of past and present civilizations. The bilingual and trilingual instruction—primarily English, along with Turkish and Arabic—ensures that students engage critically with primary sources and communicate research across language barriers. This approach encourages students to investigate contemporary global issues through multiple disciplinary perspectives and lay the groundwork for meaningful, real-world contributions.
With over forty nationalities represented, ACI’s student body benefits from a wide range of cultural and academic backgrounds. This diversity fosters a dynamic community where each member’s experiences inform collective understanding. Collaborative projects, roundtable discussions, and conferences thrive in an atmosphere that values different perspectives as a path to innovative ideas and solutions.
ACI offers robust financial aid packages and maintains high standards in its selection process. Successful applicants often receive scholarships that cover tuition and, in most cases, an additional stipend. This support enables students to focus on pursuing academic goals and taking full advantage of the Institute’s research opportunities without financial constraints.
Faculty and peers at ACI form a supportive network dedicated to promoting academic excellence, ethical research, and personal growth. Through mentorship, workshops, and team-based projects, students learn to navigate complex questions in Civilization Studies with rigor and creativity. This interconnected and encouraging environment helps them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and work collectively toward shared objectives.
Many describe their time at ACI as transformative, shaped by the interplay between a multicultural student body, a historic campus, and an intellectually stimulating curriculum. Through immersive language training, interdisciplinary seminars, and hands-on research, students develop the tools necessary to contribute to scholarship and society at large.
The Alliance of Civilizations Institute at Ibn Haldun University invites prospective scholars to experience a thriving academic community set against Istanbul’s historical tapestry. Explore the depths of history, culture, and civilization in an environment that champions interdisciplinary research, multilingual education, and a global outlook. Visit our website to learn more about our programs and application details, and begin a journey that can shape your future in far-reaching ways.
ACI offers two graduate programs in Civilization Studies:
Both programs emphasize multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to the study of civilizations through fields such as religion, art, literature, history, sociology, and political science.
If students do not meet the required Turkish (C-1) or Arabic (A-2 for international students, B-2 for Turkish citizens) proficiency levels, they must attend language classes at the School of Languages located at IHU’s Main Campus in Başakşehir.
No. English proficiency must be proven at the time of registration. Applicants should secure a minimum score of 84 in TOEFL-iBT or an equivalent score in CAE, CPE, PTE Academic or YDS. MA applicants may also take the University’s English Proficiency Test to certify proficiency.
Yes. The Institute welcomes professors, researchers, and graduate students from other institutions who have independent funding to conduct research. Prospective visitors should contact the relevant faculty member at ACI whose research aligns with their interests. ACI can provide library access, workspace, and opportunities to interact with faculty and students. Please see the relevant page under the “Research” tab.
The Diploma Supplement is an official document issued alongside your degree to ensure international transparency and recognition of qualifications. It explains the content and level of the degree you have earned, making it easier for employers and educational institutions abroad to understand your academic background. IHU provides a Diploma Supplement free of charge to all graduates.
ACI encourage interdisciplinary projects. One example is the Munazara and Argumentation Ethics Center (ArguMunazara), dedicated to promoting debate, argumentation theory, and critical thinking. Students can participate in or initiate research projects, attend conferences, and collaborate with experts in various fields of Civilization Studies.
Ibn Haldun University is distinctively positioned as the sole research-oriented foundation university in Turkey dedicated exclusively to the social sciences. This pioneering model provides graduate students with an enriching academic environment focused entirely on research, innovation, and scholarly inquiry. At IHU, students benefit from close collaboration with internationally recognized faculty, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and innovative research.
Ibn Haldun University offers graduate students a rare opportunity through its "Teaching Assistantship" program. This program enables Master's and PhD students to actively engage in teaching undergraduate courses, gaining invaluable experience and preparing them for future academic careers. Such opportunities are available at only a few select universities in Turkey, making IHU a standout institution for prospective academics looking to build both teaching experience and scholarly expertise.
Committed to ensuring students can concentrate fully on their academic and personal growth, Ibn Haldun University provides significant financial support through generous scholarships and tuition exemptions. Many admitted graduate students receive a full (100%) tuition waiver, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic work without financial pressure. Additionally, competitive monthly stipends are available for highly qualified candidates.
IHU’s graduate programs emphasize a multidisciplinary approach to social sciences, embracing diverse methodologies and fostering multilingual competencies. The university supports language development in English, Turkish, and Arabic, reinforcing the connection between civilizations and languages and preparing students for global academic and professional environments.
Understanding the importance of a supportive living and learning environment, Ibn Haldun University provides comfortable on-campus housing options for both male and female students. Accommodation includes dedicated dormitories conveniently located both on the main Başakşehir campus and other locations, ensuring students can focus fully on their academic pursuits and campus life.
If you have further questions about the application process or requirements that are not covered here, please consult the official application portal Application FAQ page, which addresses many common concerns. For detailed inquiries or unique situations, we strongly recommend reviewing our admissions webpage or reaching out via email (below).
Email:
medit@ihu.edu.tr
meditbasvuru@ihu.edu.tr (inquiries about applications)
Phone: +90 212 692 02 12 / 4311
Address:
Alliance of Civilizations Institute (Medeniyetler İttifakı Enstitüsü)
IHU Süleymaniye Campus, Salis Medrese, Süleymaniye Mahallesi,
Mimar Sinan Caddesi, No: 38 Fatih / İstanbul 34116
For more details and to begin your application, visit our online application portal.