Studying Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025: A bridge linking engineering and health

In an era of rapid medical advancement, cutting-edge medical equipment has become the backbone of modern healthcare, from precision diagnostic devices to sophisticated surgical robots. Behind every device that saves or improves lives stands a biomedical engineer, combining engineering expertise with biomedical knowledge. With the rapid development of the healthcare and industrial sectors in Turkey, the country has emerged as an attractive destination for ambitious international students aspiring to study biomedical engineering in Turkey by 2025. This comprehensive article will provide you with a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about this vital specialization, from its definition and academic aspects to admission requirements, costs, and career prospects.

What is biomedical engineering? And why is it important in 2025?

Biomedical engineering, also known as medical device engineering, is a multidisciplinary field that applies engineering and design principles to medicine and biology to solve healthcare problems. This discipline aims to improve healthcare by developing new technologies, devices, and medical equipment, or by enhancing existing ones.

The role of a biomedical engineer is not limited to device maintenance, but extends to include:

• Design and Development: Design and development of new medical devices, such as medical imaging devices (MRI, CT scans), vital monitoring devices, prosthetics, and surgical devices.
• Research and Development: Conducting advanced research in fields such as genetic engineering, tissue engineering, and biomaterials.
• Maintenance and Management: Installation, maintenance and management of medical equipment in hospitals and clinics.
• Quality and safety assurance: Ensuring that medical equipment meets global safety and quality standards.
• Consulting and Sales: Providing consultations to healthcare institutions on selecting appropriate equipment, or working in companies that sell and distribute medical devices.

In 2025 and beyond, the importance of medical equipment engineering will increase significantly due to the following global trends:

• Population aging: The increasing number of elderly people increases the need for assistive medical devices and advanced healthcare.
• Chronic diseases: The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases requires advanced diagnostic, monitoring, and treatment equipment.
• Precision medicine and personalized medicine: developing devices and technologies that are tailored to the individual biological characteristics of patients.
• Telemedicine: Designing and developing devices that enable patient monitoring and the provision of care remotely.
• Robotics and computer-assisted surgery: The use of robots in surgical procedures requires engineers who specialize in their design and operation.
• Innovation in biomaterials: Developing new materials that are biocompatible with the human body for use in implants and prosthetics.

This continuous development makes medical equipment engineering a dynamic field that provides promising and stable career opportunities, and enables its graduates to contribute directly to improving human health.

Advantages of studying Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025

Türkiye offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for studying biomedical engineering:

1. Quality of Engineering Education: Turkish universities are known for providing high-quality engineering education, especially leading technical universities. Many of their programs are internationally accredited and follow the European Bologna Process standards.
2. Developments in the healthcare and industrial sectors: Turkey’s healthcare sector has witnessed significant development in recent years, with the construction of large city hospitals and advanced research centers. Turkish industry has also begun to focus on producing medical equipment domestically, creating training and employment opportunities.
3. Affordable cost: Compared to many European and North American countries, the costs of studying and living in Türkiye are very reasonable, making it an excellent economical option for international students.
4. Programs in English: Many private Turkish universities and some public universities offer medical equipment engineering or biomedical engineering programs entirely in English, removing the language barrier for international students.
5. Modern laboratories and facilities: Turkish universities invest heavily in infrastructure, providing specialized biomedical engineering laboratories and advanced research centers that allow students practical application opportunities.
6. Training and employment opportunities: Universities maintain strong relationships with hospitals, medical equipment manufacturers, and medical technology companies, providing practical training opportunities for students and enhancing their employment prospects.
7. Strategic location: Türkiye’s outstanding geographical location makes it easily accessible and provides opportunities to connect with markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

What will you study in the field of Biomedical Engineering?

A Bachelor of Science in Medical Equipment Engineering (or Biomedical Engineering) program is typically 4 years long and covers a wide range of engineering and medical topics:

• Basic materials in engineering:
  • Mathematics (Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential Equations)
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Computer programming (such as Python, C++)
  • Electrical circuits and electronics
  • Mechanics (Fluid Mechanics, Mechanics of Materials)
• Basic materials in medicine and biology:
  • General Biology
  • Human physiology (organ functions)
  • Anatomy
  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology – An Overview
• Specialized materials in medical equipment engineering:
  • Biomaterials
  • Medical Instrumentation and Design
  • Digital Signal Processing for Biomedical Applications
  • Medical Imaging and Image Processing
  • Tissue Engineering
  • Biomechanics
  • Biotechnology
  • Medical Electronics
  • Medical Robotics
  • Health Information Systems
  • Ethics and Safety in Medical Devices
  • Medical Image Processing

In addition, the program focuses on practical projects, hands-on training in hospitals or companies, and graduation projects that enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real challenges.

Admission requirements for studying Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025

Admission requirements for studying biomedical engineering at Turkish universities for international students vary depending on the type of university (public or private) and the language of instruction:

1. Public universities:

• High school diploma: with a very high average (usually no less than 80-90% in the science section, with a focus on mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology).
• Admission tests:
  • The YÖS exam: This is the Turkish aptitude test for foreign students, required by most public universities. Top universities compete fiercely for very high YÖS scores in engineering programs.
  • The SAT (SAT I) test: Some public universities accept the SAT test as an alternative to the YÖS, and require a minimum score of 1100-1300.
• Proficiency in the language:
  • Turkish language: If the program is in Turkish, proof of language proficiency is required through the TOMER test at level C1, or the student can study a preparatory year for the Turkish language.
  • English Language: If the program is in English, proof of proficiency is required through tests such as TOEFL (minimum 75-80) or IELTS (minimum 6.0-6.5), or the student can pass the university’s language placement test.

2. Private (endowment) universities:

• High school diploma: competitive grades, usually lower than those required by public universities (the minimum grade may start at 60% in some universities for certain majors, but it is higher for in-demand engineering fields). A science-based diploma is preferred.
• Admission tests: Most private universities do not require YÖS or SAT tests as a basic requirement, and are satisfied with the high school GPA.
• Proficiency in the language:
  • Turkish language: Same requirements as for state universities if the program is in Turkish.
  • English language: Same requirements as government universities (TOEFL/IELTS) or passing the university’s language placement test.
• Additional documents: Some universities may require a letter of motivation, a resume, or a personal interview.

Important advice: You should always check the official website of the university you wish to apply to in order to find out the latest and most accurate admission requirements for the academic year 2025-2026, as these requirements change periodically.

Cost of studying Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025

Türkiye offers a variety of options in terms of cost, making it suitable for different budgets:

1. Fees for public universities:

• Annual fees for studying Medical Equipment Engineering (or Biomedical Engineering) at Turkish state universities typically range from US$500 to US$3000.
• These fees are very symbolic compared to the quality of education provided, and are considered a major competitive advantage.
• Programs taught in English at state universities may have slightly higher fees than those taught in Turkish.

2. Private university fees:

• Annual fees for studying biomedical engineering at Turkish private universities typically range from US$4,000 to US$12,000.
• Private universities with high rankings and prestigious academic reputations may have higher fees within this range.
• Many private universities offer options for paying fees in installments (annual or semester-based) to make things easier for students.

Cost of living in Türkiye 2025:

In addition to tuition fees, students must estimate living costs, which vary depending on the city and the student’s lifestyle.

• Average monthly cost: Typically ranges from US$350 to US$700.
• Accommodation:
  • Government housing (KYK): about $50-$150 per month (cheapest option).
  • Private accommodations: $150-$400 per month.
  • Shared/private apartments: $200-$600 per month or more depending on location and city.
• Food: $100-$200 per month (you can save by cooking at home).
• Transportation: Approximately $20-$40 per month using a discounted student transportation card.
• Health insurance: Mandatory, about $100-$150 per year for government insurance (SGK).
• Personal expenses: $50-$150 per month (books, entertainment, communications).

Tip: Large cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir have a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities.

Top universities for studying Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025

Many Turkish universities offer excellent programs in medical equipment engineering or biomedical engineering; here are some of the most prominent:

1. Middle East Technical University (METU):
   • It is considered one of the best Turkish universities in general, and in engineering in particular.
   • Biomedical engineering programs are offered entirely in English and are renowned for their strong scientific research and high academic standards.
2. Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ):
   • One of the oldest and most prestigious technical universities in Türkiye, located in Istanbul.
   • It is known for its excellence in engineering disciplines, including biomedical engineering.
   • Programs are offered in English.
3. Bilkent University:
   • A prestigious private university in Ankara, offering high-quality education in English.
   • It is known for its focus on scientific research and state-of-the-art facilities in biomedical engineering.
4. Koç University:
   • A leading private university in Istanbul, distinguished by its English-language programs and rigorous academic standards in engineering.
   • It offers strong programs in biomedical engineering.
5. Sabancı University:
   • An innovative private university in Istanbul, offering flexible programs focused on multidisciplinary research.
   • It is known for the strength of its engineering departments, especially in the fields of bioengineering and materials.
6. Yıldız Technical University:
   • A prestigious public university in Istanbul, offering outstanding engineering programs.
   • It is known for its quality in disciplines such as mechatronics engineering and electrical and electronic engineering, which are fundamental to biomedical engineering.
7. Istanbul Medipol University
   • A rapidly growing private university with very modern teaching hospitals, providing an excellent environment for students to train in biomedical engineering and apply their knowledge.

Career prospects for biomedical engineering graduates in Türkiye and worldwide in 2025

The future of a medical equipment engineer (or biomedical engineer) is very bright and promising in 2025 and beyond, for several reasons:

1. Increased demand for healthcare: With a growing population and rising life expectancy, the demand for health services and innovative medical equipment is increasing.
2. Continuous technological innovation: Advances in artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, and new materials are revolutionizing the design and production of medical equipment.
3. Diverse career paths: Biomedical engineers can work in a variety of fields such as:
   • Manufacturing and developing medical devices: in companies such as Siemens Healthineers, GE Healthcare, Philips, Medtronic and others.
   • Hospitals and clinics: Management, maintenance, and calibration of medical equipment.
   • Research and Development (R&D): In universities, research centers, or research and development departments in companies.
   • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies: in developing devices related to treatments.
   • Sales and Marketing: For specialized medical equipment.
   • Consulting: Providing expertise to healthcare institutions or insurance companies.
   • Government and regulatory bodies: Ensuring compliance with standards and regulations.
4. Competitive salaries: Biomedical engineering is considered one of the engineering disciplines with good salaries, and with experience and specialization, salaries increase significantly.
5. Positive impact: Medical equipment engineers can experience great job satisfaction, as they contribute directly to improving patient health and saving lives.

In Türkiye, the healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth, and there is a focus on increasing domestic production of medical equipment. This is creating a dynamic job market for biomedical engineering graduates.

Tips for students wishing to study Biomedical Engineering in Türkiye 2025:

1. Start early: Research and apply to universities early, especially if you are targeting highly competitive public universities or scholarships.
2. Enhance your skills in basic sciences: Focus on mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, as they are the foundation of this discipline.
3. Develop your programming skills: Understanding programming languages ​​(such as Python, MATLAB) is essential for data analysis and model design.
4. Exposure to the practical side: Try participating in workshops, hospital visits, or medical equipment exhibitions to understand the work environment.
5. Develop your language skills: Whether it’s English or Turkish, mastering the language will greatly facilitate your studies and daily life.
6. Look for scholarship opportunities: Don’t hesitate to apply for the Turkish government scholarship or partial scholarships offered by private universities.
7. Participate in extracurricular activities: Joining student clubs and events related to biomedical engineering will enrich your experience.
8. Build a network: Connect with your professors, colleagues, and industry professionals. These relationships may open doors to training and employment opportunities.
9. Continuous learning: The field of biomedical engineering is rapidly evolving. Be prepared for ongoing learning and skill development after graduation.

Studying Biomedical Engineering in Turkey in 2025 offers a golden opportunity for ambitious students with a passion for engineering and a desire to contribute to the healthcare sector. With its prestigious universities, comprehensive programs, reasonable costs, and the growing demand for its graduates in a rapidly expanding healthcare and industrial sector, Turkey is an excellent choice for investing in your education in this vital field. Through careful planning and hard work, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in Biomedical Engineering.