Studying special education in Turkey offers a rewarding and fulfilling academic journey for students passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with special needs. With its commitment to inclusive education and the provision of equal opportunities, Turkey provides an ideal environment for students aspiring to specialize in this field.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide, exploring the various aspects of studying special education in Turkey, including universities, programs, admission requirements, curriculum, career prospects, and student support.
Best Universities for Special Education in Turkey
Turkey is home to several reputable universities that offer comprehensive special education programs. These institutions are known for their expertise in the field and their commitment to training skilled professionals. Some of the prominent universities offering special education programs in Turkey include:
Located in the capital city, Ankara University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in special education. The university is renowned for its research initiatives and commitment to inclusive education practices.
Hacettepe University
Hacettepe University, also based in Ankara, is recognized for its excellence in special education programs. The university provides a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs with a strong emphasis on practical training.
Marmara University
Situated in Istanbul, Marmara University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in special education. The university focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with individuals with diverse learning needs.
Special Education Programs in Turkey
Special education programs in Turkey encompass a comprehensive range of degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. These programs aim to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to support individuals with special needs. Some common degree programs in special education include:
- Bachelor's Degree: Undergraduate programs in special education typically span four years and provide students with a solid foundation in the field. The curriculum covers subjects such as inclusive education, assessment and intervention strategies, behavior management, and curriculum adaptation.
- Master's Degree: Master's programs in special education delve deeper into specialized areas within the field, allowing students to develop advanced knowledge and skills. Students can choose from various specializations, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, and sensory impairments.
- Doctoral Degree: Doctoral programs in special education focus on advanced research and scholarship. Students engage in original research, contribute to the body of knowledge in special education, and prepare for leadership roles in academia or research institutions.
Special Education Curriculum and Course Structure in Turkey
The curriculum for special education programs in Turkey is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. The coursework may include the following subjects:
Introduction to Special Education
This course provides an overview of special education, including historical perspectives, legal frameworks, and the principles of inclusive education.
Assessment and Evaluation
Students learn various assessment tools and techniques to identify and evaluate the learning needs and strengths of individuals with disabilities. They develop skills in designing and implementing individualized education plans.
Instructional Strategies
This course focuses on effective teaching methods, curriculum adaptation, and differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs. Students learn to design and implement instructional interventions that promote academic and social development.
Behavior Management
Students explore strategies for managing challenging behaviors and creating positive learning environments. They learn techniques for behavior analysis, behavior modification, and positive behavior support.
Collaboration and Family Involvement
This course emphasizes the importance of collaboration between special education professionals, families, and other stakeholders. Students learn effective communication and collaboration strategies to promote the holistic development of individuals with special needs.
Special Education Career Prospects in Turkey
Graduates of special education programs in Turkey have diverse career opportunities available to them. They can work in various settings, including:
Schools
Graduates can work as special education teachers in public or private schools, supporting students with special needs and providing individualized instruction and support.
Rehabilitation Centers
Graduates can work in rehabilitation centers, providing educational and therapeutic services to individuals with disabilities.
Government Agencies and NGOs
Graduates can work in governmental agencies or non-governmental organizations that focus on disability rights, advocacy, and policy development.
Assessment and Intervention Centers
Graduates can work in assessment and intervention centers, conducting assessments, developing intervention plans, and supporting individuals with special needs and their families.
Research and Academia
With advanced degrees, graduates can pursue research careers or academic positions in universities, research institutions, or governmental organizations, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practices in special education.
Student Support and Professional Development
Turkish universities provide comprehensive support services to students pursuing special education programs. These services include academic advising, mentorship programs, and access to specialized resources such as assistive technologies and adapted materials. Students are also encouraged to participate in professional development activities, conferences, and workshops to enhance their knowledge and stay updated with current trends in the field.
Student Exchange Programs in Turkish Universities
The questions revolve around the possibility of studying at different universities in different locations outside or inside Turkey. The university offers several programs for local and international student exchange, the most important of which are: Erasmus program, Mevlana program, and Farabi program.
- Erasmus Program
The Erasmus program is one of the important study programs that allow student exchange between European and other international universities. Turkey joined this program in 2003, and it is one of the easiest ways to study in Europe, where approximately 3 million students have participated since the program's inception.
The program offers financial support, opportunities to learn new teaching methods, learn a new foreign language, and discover new countries, their history, and civilization. To join the program, you must complete at least one academic year, have a GPA higher than 2, pass a language test, provide a personal photo, valid passport, grade report, and letter of recommendation.
- Melvana Program
The Mevlana program, implemented in 2011, allows student exchange between universities in Turkey and within other countries. To apply for the program, you must complete at least one academic year, have a cumulative GPA higher than 2.5, pass a language test, provide a personal photo, valid passport, grade report, and two letters of recommendation that can be obtained from the university.
- Farabi Program
The Farabi program allows students to exchange between Turkish universities without canceling their registration in their original university. To register for the program, you must complete at least one academic year (excluding the preparatory year), have a cumulative GPA higher than 2, and have the right to apply for only one university. This grant funds one semester with the possibility of completing further semesters.
Conditions for Studying Special Education in Turkey
Public Universities in turkey
Admission to some Turkish government universities depends on success in the Turkish YÖS aptitude test or the SAT aptitude test, in addition to obtaining a high school diploma with a varying grade requirement depending on the university.
A TOEFL test and Turkish language proficiency test (TOMER) are required if the language of instruction is Turkish. If the student doesn't have a TOEFL or TOMER certificate, they will have to take a language proficiency test at the same university they're applying to if accepted. If the student passes, they start their first year of study immediately. If they fail, they have to undergo a preparatory year to learn the language.
Private Universities in turkey
As for the study requirements in Turkish private universities, they don't require any additional conditions from students. It's enough to have a high school diploma with a grade of no less than 50%. When choosing to study in English, a preparatory year is taught, as well as when studying in Turkish.
Advantages of Registering through Turkey Campus
One of the main advantages that Turkey Campus offers to students when registering at Turkish universities include:
The ability to sign contracts with private universities in Turkey, which guarantees foreign students' admission and a reduction in tuition fees upon acceptance. Turkey Campus provides multiple options for private and public universities, indicating available majors, annual fees, duration of study, and required registration documents. Based on each student's motivation, we offer tailored educational consultations for their specific situation. We guide students through all the necessary steps for official registration in the university and obtaining a student ID card. We also assist in securing suitable university housing and obtaining residence permits for students. We maintain continuous communication with students to provide advice and address any inquiries they may have.
Studying special education in Turkey offers a rewarding and impactful educational journey. With its reputable universities, comprehensive programs, practical orientation, and commitment to inclusive education, Turkey provides an ideal environment for students aspiring to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs.
By acquiring knowledge, skills, and practical experience, graduates of special education programs in Turkey are well-prepared for fulfilling careers in various educational settings.
If you're interested in joining one of the universities in Turkey, we at Turkey Campus are pleased to offer you a helping hand and embark on the journey towards your future. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through the entire application process to Turkish universities, starting from choosing the suitable program to submitting your application, securing your acceptance, and ensuring that you benefit from all available grants and discounts offered by the universities through us.
