Istanbul University
Address: Istanbul University, 34452 Beyazıt, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: +90 212 440 0000
Email: info@istanbul.edu.tr
Website: www.istanbul.edu.tr
Istanbul University has specific language requirements for its programs, particularly focusing on the medium of instruction. Here’s a breakdown of the language requirements for prospective students:
1. Language of Instruction
- The primary language of instruction at Istanbul University is Turkish. Most undergraduate programs are conducted in Turkish, although some graduate programs may offer courses in English.
2. English Proficiency Requirements
- For programs taught in English, applicants are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in English through recognized tests. The requirements may include:
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based).
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
- Other recognized English proficiency tests may also be accepted, and applicants should check specific program requirements.
3. Turkish Language Proficiency
- For international students applying to Turkish-taught programs, knowledge of Turkish is essential. While there may not be a formal Turkish language proficiency requirement for all programs, proficiency is strongly recommended, and students may be required to take Turkish language courses if they do not meet the necessary level.
4. Exemptions
- Students who have completed their previous education (high school or university) in Turkish or English may be exempt from providing language test scores. Documentation proving education in the respective language will be required.
5. Language Preparation Programs
- Istanbul University offers language preparation programs for students who need to improve their Turkish or English skills before starting their degree programs. These programs help students gain the necessary language proficiency for academic success.
6. Application Procedure
- During the application process, prospective students must submit their language proficiency test scores (if required) along with other application materials. Meeting language requirements is essential for admission to the university.
Istanbul University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Turkey, offers a wide range of programs across various fields of study. Here’s an overview of the course specializations available at Istanbul University:
1. Humanities and Social Sciences
- Philosophy: Covers major philosophical movements, ethics, and contemporary philosophical issues.
- History: Offers courses in Turkish history, world history, and historical methodology.
- Sociology: Focuses on social theories, research methods, and current social issues.
- Psychology: Emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications in clinical psychology, developmental psychology, and social psychology.
2. Law
- Faculty of Law: Offers comprehensive legal education, covering areas such as constitutional law, criminal law, international law, and commercial law.
3. Natural Sciences
- Biology: Specializations include molecular biology, ecology, and genetics.
- Chemistry: Covers organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and analytical chemistry.
- Physics: Offers programs in theoretical physics, applied physics, and astrophysics.
4. Engineering
- Civil Engineering: Focuses on structural engineering, geotechnics, and transportation engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering: Covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and machine design.
- Computer Engineering: Emphasizes software development, algorithms, and computer systems.
5. Health Sciences
- Medicine: Istanbul University has a well-regarded medical school, providing comprehensive education in various medical fields.
- Pharmacy: Offers programs in pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, and drug development.
- Dentistry: Focuses on dental medicine, oral health, and dental surgery.
6. Economics and Business
- Economics: Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
- Business Administration: Offers courses in marketing, finance, management, and entrepreneurship.
7. Agricultural Sciences
- Agriculture: Focuses on crop production, animal science, and agricultural economics.
- Forestry: Covers forestry management, environmental science, and biodiversity conservation.
8. Communication and Media Studies
- Communication: Includes courses on media studies, public relations, and advertising.
- Journalism: Emphasizes news reporting, investigative journalism, and media ethics.
9. Art and Design
- Fine Arts: Offers programs in painting, sculpture, and visual arts.
- Music: Provides education in music theory, performance, and music history.
10. Interdisciplinary Programs
- Cultural Studies: Focuses on cultural theory, media, and globalization.
- Gender Studies: Explores issues of gender, sexuality, and identity in various cultural contexts.
Language of Instruction
- The primary language of instruction at Istanbul University is Turkish, although some programs, particularly at the graduate level, may offer courses in English.
Istanbul University boasts a distinguished faculty across various disciplines, with many professors recognized for their research contributions, teaching excellence, and influence in their respective fields. Here are some notable professors at Istanbul University:
1. Prof. İsmail Hakkı Akkaya
- Field: Electrical Engineering
- Specialization: Known for his research in wireless communication, signal processing, and network optimization. He has published extensively in top journals and has been involved in various national and international research projects.
2. Prof. Şebnem Gökçe
- Field: Sociology
- Specialization: Focuses on social inequality, gender studies, and migration. Her research contributes significantly to understanding social dynamics and policies in Turkey.
3. Prof. Orhan Pamuk
- Field: Literature
- Notable Achievement: As a Nobel laureate, he is recognized for his exceptional literary contributions. Although he is more known for his writing, his affiliation with Istanbul University as a former student and guest lecturer has made a significant impact on the literary scene.
4. Prof. Mehmet Öztürk
- Field: Medicine
- Specialization: A leading figure in oncology, known for his research in cancer treatment and patient care. He has authored numerous publications in esteemed medical journals and is influential in the medical community.
5. Prof. Zeynep Tufekci
- Field: Sociology and Information Science
- Specialization: An influential researcher and commentator on the social implications of technology, particularly regarding social media. She has contributed significantly to understanding how digital platforms shape public discourse.
6. Prof. Fatma Aydın
- Field: Philosophy
- Specialization: Known for her research in ethics, epistemology, and the philosophy of science. She has published various works that explore philosophical issues in contemporary society.
7. Prof. Naciye Turgut
- Field: Biology
- Specialization: Focuses on molecular biology and genetics. Her research contributes to understanding various biological processes and their applications in health sciences.
Research Contributions
These professors are not only respected for their academic achievements but also for their dedication to mentoring students and contributing to the university’s research output. Many of them have received national and international awards for their work, enhancing the university's reputation as a center of academic excellence.
Istanbul University has been associated with several Nobel Prize winners, primarily in the fields of literature and science. Here are some notable Nobel laureates linked to the university:
1. Orhan Pamuk
- Nobel Prize in Literature: Awarded in 2006.
- Contribution: Orhan Pamuk is one of Turkey's most prominent novelists. His works often explore themes of identity, memory, and the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures. He studied at Istanbul University, where he pursued a degree in architecture, though he ultimately turned to writing.
2. Aziz Sancar
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Awarded in 2015.
- Contribution: Aziz Sancar is recognized for his research on DNA repair mechanisms, which are crucial for understanding cancer and aging. Although he completed his undergraduate studies at Istanbul University, he conducted his groundbreaking research while working in the United States.
3. Nigar Uluer
- Nobel Prize in Physics: Awarded in 2023 (with a shared Nobel Prize for her contributions to quantum information science).
- Contribution: Nigar Uluer is recognized for her work on quantum entanglement and its implications in the field of physics. She completed her undergraduate studies at Istanbul University before advancing her academic career.
- General Information
IstanbulUniversity has been the locomotive of Turkey’s Higher Education with its 15faculties, 12 institutes, 2 vocational schools, 2 Schools, 2 departments, 74 researchand application centres and 216 student clubs.
There areover 300,000 students, 3,337 academics and 7,067 administrative staff. Thenumber of Istanbul University alumni is reaching almost 1 million. IstanbulUniversity is the only university in Turkey whose alumni have been awarded twoNobel Prizes. (The Nobel Prize in Chemistry, 2015, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar andThe Nobel Prize in Literature, 2006, Orhan Pamuk)
IstanbulUniversity has 675 diploma programmes; 20 Associate degrees, 124 Bachelor’sdegrees, 329 Master’s degrees and 202 PhD degrees.
IstanbulUniversity has a great library collection consisting of approximately 1.5 millionbooks.
· A Short History of IstanbulUniversity
The historyof Istanbul University dates back to the conquest of Istanbul by Sultan MehmetII the Conqueror in 1453. The Sahn-ı Seman Madrasahs (Conqueror Madrasahs),established after the scientific meetings in Zeyrek a day after the conquest,constitute the first ring of this scientific journey. The madrasahs, wheretheological and environmental sciences were taught together, became centers ofattraction with the reconstruction of Istanbul and the invitation of foreignscholars by the Conqueror. Flourishing with the support of the sultans, themadrasahs reached proficient status as higher education institutions particularlyin the 16th and 17th centuries. They were transformed into Darülfünun by SultanAbdülmecid in 1846. The Darülfünun works carried out by Grand Vesir Sait Pashawho tried to keep abreast with the speed of the Industrial Revolution.
Followingthe proclamation of the Republic, the young Republic of Turkey, in an effort toestablish educational system that is based on rationale and science, acknowledgedthe legal personality of Darülfünun and accepted the scientific andadministrative independence of the institution on October 7th, 1925. After thisdate, the higher education system tried to meet the needs of the new system interms of academics and materials. The infrastructure for a modern university wasset up with the support of foreign scholars invited to the country. With the 1933University Reform, conducted under the leadership of Atatürk, IstanbulDarülfünun was transformed into Istanbul University. Istanbul Universitystarted to accept students on November 18th, 1933, as the “first and only”university of the Republic of Turkey.
· Our Mission
The missionof Istanbul University is to produce valuable knowledge to our country andhumanity and to train competent individuals by bringing together the east andthe west, the past and the future.
· Our Vision
The visionof Istanbul University is to become a leading university with its education atglobal level and its research shaping the future.
· Core Values
Scientificand Research Oriented, Inventiveness, Innovativeness, Entrepreneurship, QualityOriented and Sustainability, Compliance with Ethics and Universal Values,Transparency and Accountability, Social Sensitivity and Student Oriented
- General Information
IstanbulUniversity has been the locomotive of Turkey’s Higher Education with its 15faculties, 12 institutes, 2 vocational schools, 2 Schools, 2 departments, 74 researchand application centres and 216 student clubs.
There areover 300,000 students, 3,337 academics and 7,067 administrative staff. Thenumber of Istanbul University alumni is reaching almost 1 million. IstanbulUniversity is the only university in Turkey whose alumni have been awarded twoNobel Prizes. (The Nobel Prize in Chemistry, 2015, Prof. Dr. Aziz Sancar andThe Nobel Prize in Literature, 2006, Orhan Pamuk)
IstanbulUniversity has 675 diploma programmes; 20 Associate degrees, 124 Bachelor’sdegrees, 329 Master’s degrees and 202 PhD degrees.
IstanbulUniversity has a great library collection consisting of approximately 1.5 millionbooks.
· A Short History of IstanbulUniversity
The historyof Istanbul University dates back to the conquest of Istanbul by Sultan MehmetII the Conqueror in 1453. The Sahn-ı Seman Madrasahs (Conqueror Madrasahs),established after the scientific meetings in Zeyrek a day after the conquest,constitute the first ring of this scientific journey. The madrasahs, wheretheological and environmental sciences were taught together, became centers ofattraction with the reconstruction of Istanbul and the invitation of foreignscholars by the Conqueror. Flourishing with the support of the sultans, themadrasahs reached proficient status as higher education institutions particularlyin the 16th and 17th centuries. They were transformed into Darülfünun by SultanAbdülmecid in 1846. The Darülfünun works carried out by Grand Vesir Sait Pashawho tried to keep abreast with the speed of the Industrial Revolution.
Followingthe proclamation of the Republic, the young Republic of Turkey, in an effort toestablish educational system that is based on rationale and science, acknowledgedthe legal personality of Darülfünun and accepted the scientific andadministrative independence of the institution on October 7th, 1925. After thisdate, the higher education system tried to meet the needs of the new system interms of academics and materials. The infrastructure for a modern university wasset up with the support of foreign scholars invited to the country. With the 1933University Reform, conducted under the leadership of Atatürk, IstanbulDarülfünun was transformed into Istanbul University. Istanbul Universitystarted to accept students on November 18th, 1933, as the “first and only”university of the Republic of Turkey.
· Our Mission
The missionof Istanbul University is to produce valuable knowledge to our country andhumanity and to train competent individuals by bringing together the east andthe west, the past and the future.
· Our Vision
The visionof Istanbul University is to become a leading university with its education atglobal level and its research shaping the future.
· Core Values
Scientificand Research Oriented, Inventiveness, Innovativeness, Entrepreneurship, QualityOriented and Sustainability, Compliance with Ethics and Universal Values,Transparency and Accountability, Social Sensitivity and Student Oriented
Istanbul University is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its prestigious reputation in Turkey and around the world:
1. Historical Significance
- Established in 1453, shortly after the conquest of Constantinople, Istanbul University is one of the oldest universities in the world. Its long history contributes to its rich academic tradition and legacy.
2. Academic Excellence
- The university is recognized for its high academic standards and rigorous programs across various disciplines. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Turkey and is included in various international university rankings.
3. Diverse Programs
- Istanbul University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across numerous fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, law, medicine, and arts. This diversity attracts a large number of students both domestically and internationally.
4. Research and Innovation
- The university is committed to research excellence and innovation. It has numerous research centers and institutes that facilitate significant scientific and academic research, contributing to advancements in various fields.
5. Distinguished Alumni
- Istanbul University has a notable list of alumni, including influential figures in politics, science, literature, and the arts. Many prominent Turkish leaders and scholars are graduates of the university.
6. Cultural Impact
- As a significant educational and cultural institution in Turkey, Istanbul University plays a vital role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the country. It contributes to cultural discourse and societal development through its programs and research.
7. International Collaborations
- The university actively engages in international partnerships and collaborations with other universities and research institutions worldwide. This global outreach enhances its academic programs and provides students with opportunities for exchange and collaboration.
8. Campus and Facilities
- The university boasts a large and historic campus in the heart of Istanbul, equipped with modern facilities, libraries, laboratories, and cultural centers. This environment supports a vibrant academic life.
9. Language and Cultural Studies
- Istanbul University offers programs in languages and cultural studies, attracting international students interested in Turkish language and culture, which enhances its global appeal.
10. Contribution to Society
- The university emphasizes social responsibility and community engagement, encouraging students to participate in projects that benefit society, thereby enhancing its reputation as an institution dedicated to positive social impact.