The TELEM-Glazer-Mudie Program in Graduate Studies in Political Science is designed for outstanding students with a passion for research and the analysis of political processes. We are looking for candidates with strong academic abilities, sharp analytical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a drive to lead in the field of political science.

Ideal candidates are those who are eager to engage with complex political questions, willing to commit to an intensive academic program, and aspire to pursue a career in academia, research institutions, policy organizations, or international bodies. If you seek a program that places you at the forefront of research, provides top-tier training, and equips you with the tools to integrate into the academic and professional community, we encourage you to apply.

Why Us?

The TELEM-Glazer-Mudie Program is the leading choice for students who want to specialize in advanced research in political science. It is a prestigious program (the first of its kind in political science in Israel), intensive and challenging, that gives students the most advanced tools for understanding complex political phenomena. The program combines top-level courses with close, personal mentoring from leading researchers in their fields, enabling students to develop exceptional research skills and join the forefront of academic research.

One of the main advantages of the program is its unique structure, which enables students to complete both a master’s degree and a PhD while receiving a full scholarship and funding for five years. This allows students to dedicate all their time to studying and research without the need to worry about personal financing or external employment. Additionally, the learning environment is competitive yet supportive, bringing together outstanding students with shared interests, leading to fruitful collaborations and personal and professional advancement.

Graduates of the program enter the job market with a significant advantage. They benefit from world-class academic training, equivalent to that of leading research institutions abroad, opening doors to academic careers at universities, research institutes, and international organizations. Moreover, the program equips its graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to join key positions in policy analysis and public and private research bodies.

Fees and Funding

The TELEM Program offers financial support to ensure that talented, dedicated students can focus on their studies and research without financial pressure.

• All enrolled students receive full scholarships covering all tuition costs for the first five years.
• The program also includes an appointment as a teaching assistant for two, and often three, of the first years of the fellowship.
• TELEM students receive a living stipend of $1,250–$1,750 per month to help cover living expenses. (This amount varies according to economic conditions and the student’s stage in the program.)
• There are many additional opportunities for scholarships and for working as research assistants on projects throughout the program.

We are committed to supporting our students financially and making sure they have the resources they need to succeed.

The Program

During the first two years, students undertake intensive coursework, including advanced foundational courses in political science, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and academic writing. Additionally, each student during their first year in the program is required to submit a seminar paper.

Students select from a wide range of advanced courses tailored to their research interests. These include comparative political systems, international relations, public policy, political thought, and more. Students also participate in advanced research seminars and writing workshops, engaging with cutting-edge study and developing independent research projects. 

Another opportunity, directed reading courses, are designed to allow students to expand and deepen their knowledge in specific or interdisciplinary topics of particular interest that are not covered in the department’s regular curriculum. Students may participate in one directed reading course during their studies, provided they find a faculty member from the Department of Political Science who agrees to supervise them. These courses typically include a one-hour meeting at least once every two weeks.

By the end of the second year, students must submit a master’s thesis based on independent research. Upon approval of the thesis and transition to the doctoral stage, the remaining three years focus on writing the PhD dissertation.

Students benefit from a full scholarship, a living stipend, personal research mentorship, and career guidance for academic and research development. Throughout their studies, students are exposed to many opportunities to become involved in academic research by faculty members in the department.

Application

Click here for directions to access the TELEM application.

Testimonials

“TELEM has had a huge impact on my professional life. It gave me the opportunity to study high-level courses and be surrounded by a group of intelligent and supportive individuals, many of whom continue to be a part of my journey. The program also provided me with inspiration and ambition from past cohorts, whose achievements motivated me to push forward in my own path. Additionally, TELEM gave me a clearer understanding of the path toward an academic career, helping me navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

– Dr. Nir Kosti

“Being part of the TELEM program at Hebrew University has enriched my academic and professional life significantly. The program’s group dynamic allowed me to engage with a diverse range of theories and practices in political science, exposing me to the works of various scholars across different disciplines. This exposure was invaluable, as it broadened my understanding and appreciation of the field’s complexity. Additionally, the opportunity to teach and collaborate with other scholars on research projects not only enhanced my expertise but also solidified my sense of belonging to the Hebrew University family. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my career and expanding my academic network.”

– Dr. Noam Brenner

“TELEM has been a transformative experience, both academically and professionally. The program has deepened my theoretical and methodological understanding in political science research, equipping me with the tools to conduct high-level research. One of the most impactful aspects has been the close-knit academic community, where I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with outstanding peers and receive guidance from leading scholars in the field.” 

– Gaya Sigavi