Law Master’s Degrees in Turkey: What You Need to Know Before Applying
Turkey has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking postgraduate degrees in law. With a strong legal education tradition, competitive tuition rates, and programs taught in English, Law Master’s Degrees in Turkey offer a unique combination of academic depth and international exposure.
In this guide, Yasben Academy outlines what prospective students should know before applying to Turkish universities for a master’s degree in law — from admission criteria to course structures and career outcomes.
Why Choose Turkey for a Master’s in Law?
Turkey offers a dynamic legal education system that integrates both continental European civil law and elements of comparative international law. This makes it an attractive option for students from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Key Advantages:
- Internationally recognized LLM and MA Law programs
- English and Turkish language options available
- Lower tuition and living costs compared to Western countries
- Universities with strong legal faculties and global partnerships
- Eligibility for academic or legal careers post-graduation
Types of Master’s in Law Degrees Offered
Turkish universities offer several types of postgraduate law programs:
1. LLM (Master of Laws):
- Focuses on advanced legal theory and specialization (e.g. international law, human rights, commercial law)
- Ideal for students with a prior law degree
- Available in English or Turkish
2. MA in Law / Legal Studies:
- More interdisciplinary; may accept applicants from social sciences
- May include political science, public policy, and legal theory
3. MSc in Law & Economics / Business Law:
- Specialized programs combining legal and economic education
- Highly career-oriented and practice-focused
Top Turkish Universities Offering Law Master’s Programs
| University | Program Name | Language | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koç University | LLM in Public Law / Private Law | English | Istanbul |
| Bilkent University | MA in Law and Economics | English | Ankara |
| Istanbul University | LLM in Law | Turkish | Istanbul |
| Ankara University | LLM and MA Law | Turkish | Ankara |
| Yeditepe University | LLM in International Business Law | English | Istanbul |
| Istanbul Medipol University | LLM in Health Law / International Law | English | Istanbul |
Yasben Academy helps you compare admission requirements, tuition fees, and course language to find the best program for your goals.
Admission Requirements
To apply for a Law Master’s degree in Turkey, international students typically need the following:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Law (or a related field for interdisciplinary programs)
- Transcript and graduation certificate
- Proof of English or Turkish proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or TÖMER)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2)
- CV or resume
- Some programs may require an interview or entrance exam
Yasben Academy assists you in preparing all required documents and offers SOP editing support.
Program Duration & Structure
Most law master’s programs in Turkey take 1.5 to 2 years to complete and include:
- Core legal theory modules
- Electives (e.g. international human rights, arbitration, tax law)
- Research methodology
- Thesis or graduation project
Some universities offer non-thesis tracks focused on professional practice.
Career Paths After Graduation
Graduates of Turkish law master’s programs are qualified for various roles:
- Legal consultants and advisors in multinational firms
- Public institutions and NGOs
- Academics or PhD candidates
- International organizations and legal think tanks
- Legal departments in global companies
Degrees earned in Turkey are recognized by many countries, though bar exam and licensing requirements differ by jurisdiction.
Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
Turkish universities and the government offer several funding options:
- Türkiye Scholarships (fully funded for eligible nationalities)
- University-based merit scholarships
- Discounts for international students
- Graduate assistantships
Yasben Academy helps you find the most suitable scholarship options and prepares strong application materials.
How Yasben Academy Supports You
We offer full 360° support for international students applying to law master’s programs in Turkey:
- University and program selection
- Document and SOP preparation
- Visa application support
- Accommodation and arrival planning
- Orientation and academic advising