PhD Study in Türkiye

PhD Study in Türkiye

Are you considering pursuing your graduate studies and earning a doctorate in a country brimming with culture and outstanding education? If so, Turkiye should be a top priority.

In this article, we discuss the advantages of PhD Study in Turkiye, the study system and duration, as well as the requirements and various specializations you can enroll in. Keep reading.

Why should you study for a PhD?

A PhD is the academic degree that follows a master's degree, allowing researchers to delve deeper into their field of study.

Studying for a doctorate has many benefits, including academic, professional, and personal benefits, which include:

  • A PhD helps researchers advance their careers.

  • A doctoral degree helps students develop their research and critical analysis skills through independent research.

  • It contributes to expanding the boundaries of knowledge through new and original research findings.

  • It helps them obtain prestigious academic positions, such as faculty members at universities and researchers at scientific institutes.

  • A PhD is evidence of advanced skills and knowledge, significantly enhancing your CV.

  • PhD holders receive higher salaries and better career opportunities than those with other degrees.

Advantages of PhD Study in Turkiye

PhD Study in Turkiye is one of the best options available to students, due to the following advantages:

  • The high worldwide rankings of Turkish universities mean that you can earn a PhD from one of the world's most prestigious universities.

  • Most Turkish universities have partnerships, research agreements, and collaborations with a large number of universities and research centers around the world, saving researchers significant time and facilitating their research.

  • Study programs are offered in English as well as Turkish.

  • The cost and tuition fees for doctoral studies in Turkey are lower than in other countries in Europe, the United States, and even many Arab countries.

  • Part-time study is also possible, as most doctoral lectures are held in the evening.

  • The possibility of studying for a year or one semester at a university outside Turkey through the student exchange program available at most Turkish universities. 

  • The possibility of working as an academic professor at a private Turkish university, or working for a company or institution related to the field of study, after obtaining the degree.

Read also: Advantages of studying in Turkey

The system and duration of PhD Study in Turkiye

The study system varies between universities and also by major. 

  • Some majors allow for direct application for a doctoral degree after a bachelor's degree, in which case the study period is 10 semesters. 

  • In contrast, some majors require a master's degree first, in which case the study period is 8 semesters. 

  • However, the overall study period ranges from 3 to 4 years.

  • The first two years are usually devoted to studying academic and practical subjects.

  • Then, in the third year, the researcher begins writing the thesis or dissertation, which is then presented to the evaluation committee and discussed.

PhD Programs and Specialties in Turkiye

There are more than 95,000 students pursuing PhDs at approximately 166 universities in Turkiye in various scientific disciplines. 

The following are the most important programs available for PhD study in Turkiye:

  • Bioinformatics, Genetics, and Genomics.

  • Business Administration.

  • International Trade.

  • Sociology.

  • Economics.

  • Promotional Robotics and Intelligent Systems.

  • Physical Education and Sports Science.

  • Nursing.

  • Dentistry.

  • Pharmaceutical Sciences.

  • Computer Engineering.

  • Civil Engineering.

  • International Relations.

  • Finance and Banking.

  • Architecture.

  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

  • Design Studies.

  • Experimental Psychology.

  • Political Science and International Relations.

We can classify the doctoral programs in Turkey according to the language of studying as the following:

The doctoral programs in Turkey available in English

The most important doctoral programs in Turkey in the Turkish language

  • Doctoral Program in Business Administration.

  • Doctoral Program in Contemporary Business.

  • Doctoral Program in Economics and Finance.

  • Doctoral Program in Political Science and International Relations.

  • Doctoral Program in International Relations.

  • Doctoral Program in Pharmaceutical Chemistry.

  • Doctoral Program in English Language and Literature.

  • Doctoral Program in Periodontics.

  • Doctoral Program in Sociology.

  • Doctoral Program in Neuroscience.

  • PhD Program in Architecture.

  • PhD Program in Electronics Engineering.

  • PhD Program in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

  • PhD Program in Bioengineering.

  • PhD Program in Industrial Engineering.

  • PhD Program in Computer Engineering.

  • PhD Program in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

  • PhD Program in Mechanical Engineering.

  • Doctorate in Business Administration.

  • Doctorate in Healthcare Management.

  • Doctorate in Project Management.

  • Doctorate in Dentistry.

  • Doctorate in Pediatric Dentistry.

  • Doctorate in Periodontology.

  • Doctorate in Endodontics.

  • Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.

  • Doctorate in Prosthodontics.

  • Doctorate in Aeronautical Engineering.

  • Doctorate in Food Engineering.

  • Doctorate in Computer Engineering.

  • Doctorate in Civil Engineering.

  • Doctorate in Mechatronics Engineering

  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering

  • PhD in Molecular Biology and Genetics

  • PhD in Speech and Language Therapy

  • PhD in Public Law

  • PhD in Private Law

  • PhD in Occupational Health and Safety

  • PhD in Political Science and International Relations

  • PhD in Banking and Finance

  • PhD in Architecture

  • PhD in Clinical Psychology

PhD studies at private Turkish universities

All private Turkish universities are subject to the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YOK), and most of them enjoy high academic rankings. 

The following is a list of the most important private universities that offer PhD studies:

1. Istanbul Gelisim University

Istanbul Gelişim University is a relatively new university, founded in 2008 and located on the European side of Istanbul.

It offers four different doctoral programs in civil engineering, business administration, economics, and political science.

The cost of the doctoral program is $8,000, and studies are available only in Turkish.

2. Yeditepe University

Is one of the prestigious universities located on the Asian side of Istanbul.

It is distinguished by its strong medical specialties, offering numerous doctoral programs in dentistry, such as: Doctor of Orthodontics, Doctor of Oral and Dental Surgery, Doctor of Prosthodontics, and others.

Tuition fees range from $9,000 to $10,000, and studies are available in both English and Turkish.

3. Işık University

Founded in 1996, it is located on the Asian side of Istanbul.

It offers four different doctoral programs in administrative sciences, engineering, and arts.

The tuition fee for the doctoral program is $7,000, and studies are available in both English and Turkish.

4. Kadir Has University

One of the best private Turkish universities, founded in 1997 by the HASVAK Foundation in the center and heart of Istanbul, it offers nine different doctoral programs in engineering, law, economics, and international relations.

The cost of the doctoral program is $10,000, and studies are available in both English and Turkish.

Read more about: Kadir Has University

5. Üsküdar University

A relatively new university, founded in 2011, located on the Asian side of Istanbul.

It offers seven different doctoral programs, most of which are in psychological rehabilitation, mental health, and neuroscience.

The cost of the doctoral program is $7,000, and studies are available only in Turkish.

6. Gedik University

Founded in 1994, it is located on the Asian side of Istanbul.

It offers six different doctoral programs, most notably the Doctorate in Business Administration, which is taught in English, and the Doctorate in Occupational Safety and Health.

The cost of all doctoral programs is $5,000, and the duration of study is four years.

Requirements for PhD Study in Turkiye

There are certainly certain requirements for PhD Study in Turkiye, which vary from one university to another, but generally include:

  • A master's degree, a bachelor's degree, and a transcript.

  • Some universities require a minimum grade of 70 in the subjects covered in both the bachelor's and master's degrees.

  • Obtaining an English language proficiency certificate (IELTS or TOEFL) is required if the program is taught in English. Similarly, if the program is taught in Turkish, a Turkish language proficiency certificate is required.

  • Some universities require passing the GRE, GMAT, or ALESE entrance exams.

  • Some universities also require a personal interview with the applicant's faculty or department head.

PhD Study Costs in Turkey

  • PhD tuition fees vary from one Turkish university to another, but generally, at private Turkish universities, tuition fees for the doctoral level range between $3,600 and $40,000.

  • At public Turkish universities, tuition fees range from $600 to $900 for doctoral programs in either Turkish or English.

  • In addition, most universities offer the possibility of paying tuition in installments.

PhD Scholarship in Turkey

The Turkish government offers the opportunity to study for a doctorate free of charge through a fully-funded scholarship, which covers the following costs:

  • Full tuition fees.

  • Airfare and travel expenses.

  • Accommodation in government university housing.

  • Healthcare for students through private and government health insurance programs.

  • A one-year Turkish language course.

  • The scholarship also provides a monthly stipend for doctoral students of 1,800 lira.

However, there are certain criteria and conditions that must be met by the scholarship applicant:

  • The applicant must be under 35 years of age.

  • The applicant must be in good health.

  • The applicant must not be currently enrolled at a Turkish university.

  • A GPA of 75% or higher is required for admission to the scholarship, and 90% or higher in medical specialties.

Private universities also annually offer discounts and partial scholarships to international students in all academic disciplines, including doctoral programs. Discounts range from 10% to 40%.

Read also: Free Turkish scholarships for all academic levels

Benefits of registering through the New Horizons team

  • Guidance in choosing the appropriate university major.

  • Guidance on the best Turkish universities in the major.

  • Submitting documents and files and following up on the admission process.

  • Significant discounts on tuition fees.

  • Free provisional and final acceptance.

  • Housing insurance.

  • Health insurance.

Contact us now for more information about studying in Turkey.

Conclusion

In short, there are countless doctoral programs in Turkiye that cover all fields. One of their most important features is that they are offered in both English and Turkish, which helps those wishing to work inside or outside Turkiye achieve their goals.

Frequently asked questions about PhD Study in Turkiye 

Can I get a PhD without a master's degree?

Yes, it is possible to study for a PhD in Turkiye without a master's degree. This is available at some universities and specializations. 

Are there research doctorates in Turkiye?

All Turkish universities offer research doctorate programs. This means you receive theoretical and practical training throughout your studies, and are ultimately required to conduct research to succeed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and answers about studying in Turkey

After many years of working on registering thousands of students in Turkish universities, and answering an unlimited number of questions about studying in Turkey, these are the most important questions that concern students

Turkey enjoys political and economic stability, ranking as the sixth-largest economy in Europe and the sixteenth in the world. This has positively influenced education in Turkish universities. One of the main reasons Turkey has become a hub for international education is the high quality and efficiency of its academic programs, along with low living costs. Additionally, tuition fees at Turkish universities and language institutes are significantly more affordable compared to Western countries. Turkish educational institutions enjoy a strong international reputation and are recognized in many countries around the world. For many students finishing high school, studying in Turkey has become a dream.
High-quality education Globally recognized degrees Modern university campuses Cultural diversity
To apply to Turkish universities, the only main requirement is that the applicant must have a high school diploma with an average of at least 70%.
Typically, Turkish universities require the following documents: High school diploma or equivalent Transcript of grades (if available) Copy of passport or ID Passport-size photo Language proficiency certificate (if applicable: TOEFL or TÖMER) Motivation letter or recommendation (for some programs/universities)
Education programs in Turkey are generally divided into three main types: Programs entirely in Turkish. Programs entirely in English. Mixed programs: around 70% in Turkish and 30% in English. In addition, some universities offer Islamic studies programs in Arabic.

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