Studying Psychology in Turkey 2025: Understanding the Human Mind and Building an Impactful Career

In an increasingly complex and challenging world, awareness of the importance of mental health and understanding human behavior is growing. For this reason, psychology has become one of the most sought-after and popular fields, offering profound insights into the human mind and opening up vast opportunities for professionals capable of making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities. If you aspire to study psychology in Turkey in 2025, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know, from the concept of the discipline to future career prospects.

What is psychology? And why is it important in 2025?

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. This discipline seeks to understand why people think, feel, and act the way they do. Psychology covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Cognitive psychology: Mental processes such as memory, perception, problem-solving, and thinking.
• Developmental psychology: The behavioral and cognitive changes that occur throughout a person’s life.
• Social psychology: The influence of others on an individual’s behavior and group interactions.
• Clinical and psychological psychology: Diagnosis and treatment of psychological and behavioral disorders.
• Neuropsychology: The relationship between the brain and behavior.
• Health psychology: Psychological factors that affect physical and mental health.
• Organizational and Industrial Psychology: Applying the principles of psychology in the workplace to improve performance and job satisfaction.

In 2025 and beyond, psychology will become increasingly important due to the following global trends:

• Increased awareness of mental health: There is now global recognition of the need to care for mental health, which increases the demand for specialists.
• Modern-day challenges: life pressures, technological changes, and global crises increase the need for psychological support and counseling.
• Applying psychology in various fields: Psychology is no longer limited to clinics, but its influence has extended to include business management, marketing, technology (user experience design), education, and sports.
• Growth in scientific research: Advances in understanding the brain and behavior are opening up new horizons for research and development in this field.

This continuous development makes psychology a vital field that provides influential and stable career opportunities, and enables its graduates to contribute effectively to improving the quality of life.

Advantages of studying psychology in Türkiye 2025

Türkiye offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive choice for studying psychology:

1. High-quality education: Many Turkish universities, both public and private, have strong academic reputations and internationally recognized psychology programs. These universities focus on modern curricula that combine theoretical and practical aspects.
2. Affordable cost: Compared to leading Western countries, the costs of studying and living in Türkiye are very reasonable, allowing students to obtain a high-quality education on a budget.
3. Programs in English: Many Turkish private universities and some public universities offer psychology programs entirely in English, removing the language barrier for international students and making it easier for them to understand specialized concepts.
4. Active research environment: Turkish universities invest in psychological research centers and laboratories, and encourage students to participate in research, which gives them valuable experience.
5. Cultural and demographic diversity: Türkiye is a meeting point of different cultures, which provides students with opportunities for a broader understanding of cultural differences in human behavior, a great advantage for the study of psychology.
6. Practical training opportunities: Universities establish relationships with hospitals, psychiatric clinics, counseling centers, and companies, providing practical training opportunities for students to gain field experience.
7. Rich student life: Turkish cities, especially Istanbul and Ankara, offer an active student life full of cultural, social and recreational activities.

What will you study in a psychology major?

A Bachelor of Science in Psychology program is typically 4 years long and covers a wide range of core and specialized topics:

• Basic materials:
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Statistics in Psychology
  • Research methods in psychology
  • Developmental psychology
  • Cognitive psychology
  • Social psychology
  • Personality psychology
  • Biological (Neuropsychology)
  • History of Psychology
  • Ethics of Psychology
• Specialized subjects (vary depending on the university and its focus):
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Educational Psychology
  • Organizational and Industrial Psychology
  • Health psychology
  • Criminal psychology
  • Sports psychology
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Psychological measurement and testing
  • Psychotherapy and its techniques (Introduction)
  • Psychoanalysis
  • Positive psychology

In addition to theoretical material, the program focuses on practical training in psychological laboratories, participation in research, and workshops to develop applied skills.

Admission requirements for studying psychology in Türkiye 2025

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

1Public universities:

• High school diploma: Very high grade (usually no less than 80-90%), and competition can be very high at prestigious universities. Arts and science degrees are accepted.
• Admission tests:
  • The YÖS exam: This is the Turkish aptitude test for foreign students, and it is required by most public universities. Top universities compete fiercely for very high YÖS scores.
  • 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: with a passing grade (may start from 50-60%, and higher is preferred for the most in-demand specializations). Arts and science diplomas are accepted.
• 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 adviceYou 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 psychology in Türkiye 2025

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

1. Fees for public universities:

• Public universities are the most economical option.Annual fees for studying psychology there typically range from US$300 to US$1500.
• Programs taught in English may have slightly higher fees than those taught in Turkish.

2. Private university fees:

• Annual fees for studying psychology at private (endowment) universities typically range from US$3,000 to US$8,000.
• Private universities with high rankings and strong academic reputations may have higher fees within this range.
• Many private universities offer options for paying fees in installments (annual or quarterly) 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 or eating at discounted university cafeterias).
• Transportation: Approximately $20-$40 per month using a discounted student transportation card.
• Health insurance: Mandatory for obtaining residency, approximately $100-$150 per year for government insurance (SGK).
• Personal expenses: $50-$150 per month (books, entertainment, school supplies).

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

Best universities to study psychology in Türkiye 2025

Many Turkish universities offer excellent psychology programs, and here are the most prominent ones based on rankings and reputation:

1. Middle East Technical University (METU): Located in Ankara, it is known for the strength of its academic and research departments, and offers a psychology program in English.
2. Boğaziçi University: One of the oldest public universities in Istanbul, it offers a psychology program in English, and is distinguished by its outstanding academic environment and high competitiveness.
3. Koç University: A leading private university in Istanbul, offering a psychology program in English, and renowned for its high academic standards and strong scientific research.
4. Sabancı University: Another distinguished private university in Istanbul, known for its research approach and strong programs in the social sciences, including psychology.
5. Bilkent University: Located in Ankara, it is a private university with a strong international reputation, offering a psychology program in English, with a focus on research and innovation.
6. Hacettepe University: A leading state university in Ankara, with strong departments in health and social sciences, including psychology.
7. Istanbul Bilgi University: A well-known private university in Istanbul, offering modern psychology programs in English, and distinguished by its international partnerships and focus on the practical side.
8. İstinye University: A modern private university in Istanbul, offering programs in psychology with a focus on the applied and research aspects.

Career prospects for psychology graduates in Türkiye and the world in 2025

Psychology is considered a discipline that provides broad and diverse job opportunities, due to the increasing need to understand human behavior in various sectors.

Potential areas of work:

• Clinical Psychology: After completing postgraduate studies and training, one can work as a clinical psychologist in hospitals, private clinics, and mental health centers.
• Educational psychology: In schools, universities, and educational support centers, to provide support to students and improve the educational process.
• Organizational and Industrial Psychology: In large companies, human resources departments, and organizational consulting to improve the work environment and employee productivity.
• Social psychology: in research centers, non-governmental organizations, and in the fields of social development.
• Health psychology: in hospitals, primary care centers, and public health organizations.
• Psychological counseling: in student counseling centers, private clinics, and family support centers.
• Academic research: Working as a researcher or lecturer at universities after completing postgraduate studies.
• User Experience (UX) Design: Applying principles of psychology to the design of digital products and services to make them more user-friendly and effective.
• Marketing and Consumer Behavior: Understanding the psychological motivations of consumers to develop effective marketing strategies.
• Criminal and correctional work: in police stations, prisons, and rehabilitation centers.

In Türkiye, the health and mental health sector is experiencing significant growth, and there is increasing interest in providing psychological support services. Universities and research centers also offer opportunities for graduates.

Tips to boost your career opportunities:

• Specialize in a specific area: After your bachelor’s degree, consider completing a master’s or doctoral degree in a specific area (such as clinical, organizational, or neuropsychology) to increase your chances.
• Gain practical experience: Participate in summer internship programs, volunteer at relevant institutions, or research as an assistant.
• Developing research skills: The ability to design, conduct, and analyze research is crucial.
• Language proficiency: In addition to English, proficiency in Turkish will open many doors for you in the local Turkish job market.
• Soft Skills: Effective communication skills, active listening, empathy, problem-solving, and critical thinking are very essential for the success of a psychologist.

• Building a network of relationships: Get in touch with your professors, professionals in the field, and try to attend conferences and seminars.

Studying psychology in Turkey in 2025 offers a valuable opportunity for students who wish to understand the mysteries of the human mind and contribute to improving the lives of others. With its prestigious universities, comprehensive programs, and reasonable costs, Turkey is an ideal destination to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to launch an impactful career in this vital and growing field. Prepare to immerse yourself in a world of profound scientific and humanistic discoveries.