The study of artificial intelligence in Turkey revolves around programming machines to function like human brains, designing machine learning algorithms, and creating intelligent systems. Engineers in this field often work in hospitals, factories, and service industries due to their critical role in developing smart technologies that the world is moving towards.
In this article, we will provide you with the key details and information you need to know about studying AI in Turkey.
Overview of Studying Artificial Intelligence in Turkey
This field represents the characteristics of computer programs, advanced devices, and the ability of computers to simulate human intelligence and derive solutions to various problems based on past experiences.
The demand for this engineering discipline has increased in recent years due to its role in numerous technological advancements. It focuses on utilizing modern technologies, and several definitions have emerged for this field, including:
- The ability of a software system to analyze data accurately and logically to achieve specific goals.
- The science and engineering of creating intelligent machines.
Turkish universities are actively working on building smart companies and projects based on artificial intelligence. One of the largest companies in Turkey producing AI-driven robots and drones is Baykar, led by its CEO Selçuk Bayraktar, who is the son-in-law of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
The curriculum in this specialization teaches students how to design and develop intelligent machines using smart programming, equipping them with various skills in implementing, analyzing, and comparing AI algorithms and evaluating their applications.
Students graduating from Turkish universities in this field gain global competencies in building intelligent systems and designing innovative applications. This discipline is not limited to technical subjects but is also closely linked to other cognitive sciences such as philosophy, sociology, and psychology.
The primary goal of studying AI in Turkey is not only to create innovative solutions but also to develop new AI models and algorithms from scratch to produce practical products and services that simplify human life.
What Are the Courses and Curriculum for Studying AI in Turkey?
In the first year of a bachelor's degree, students learn the fundamentals of computer engineering. By the second year, they begin specialized AI courses, including:
- Principles of Artificial Intelligence
- Learning Lab
- Computer and Ethics
- Fundamentals of Artificial Learning
- Basics of Data Science
- Scientific Laboratory Data
- Theory of Machines and Formal Languages
Additionally, students can choose elective courses such as:
- Language and Cognition
- Big Data and Artificial Learning
- Medical Artificial Intelligence
- Robotics and Decision Making
- Computer Programming
- Graph Theory and Structure
- System Programming
- Operations Research
- Database Systems
- Data Mining
- Introduction to Robotics
- Autonomous Systems
AI studies in Turkey emphasize hands-on application, with students designing their own projects within their specialization.
The duration of this program is four years, during which students learn the objectives of artificial intelligence along with various AI-related technologies.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Studying AI in Turkey?
To enroll in an AI program at a Turkish university, students must meet several requirements, including:
- A high school diploma with a minimum acceptance rate of 60%.
- If still in high school, students can submit their latest transcript, provided it is translated and certified.
- Public universities in Turkey require a higher GPA and at least 80% in the YÖS (foreign student entrance exam).
- A valid passport.
- A transcript of high school grades.
- A passport-sized photo.
- Proof of English proficiency if the student chooses to study in English.
- All documents must be verified, certified, and translated into Turkish or English.
What Are the Career Opportunities for AI Engineers in Turkey?
Turkish universities equip AI students with extensive training and expertise, enabling them to secure top positions in various fields such as:
- Computer Engineering
- Databases
- Machine Learning
- Systems Analysis and Design
- Robotics
Graduates will also be qualified to develop AI software solutions for industries such as healthcare, education, engineering, banking, and finance. Additionally, they can pursue master’s or doctoral degrees to further specialize in the field.
AI engineers in Turkey can also work in additional fields such as:
- Software Development
- Information Security Technology
- Avionics Electronics
- Computer Science and Robotics
- Agrotechnology and Management
- International Transport Systems
- Artificial Software Development
- Digital Media and Marketing
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology
- 3D Modeling and Animation
Did you know? The average monthly salary for AI engineering graduates in Turkey ranges from 5,400 to 14,200 Turkish Lira, while the global average salary in this field is $164,769 per year.
What Are the Responsibilities of AI Graduates in Turkey?
After graduation, AI engineers manage automated systems, make data-driven decisions, and apply AI solutions to various challenges. Their key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating between AI experts, data engineers, and business managers.
- Automating infrastructure used by data science teams.
- Organizing machine learning models to make them easily accessible.
- Testing and deploying AI models.
What Are the Top Universities for Studying AI in Turkey?
Several Turkish universities offer AI engineering programs, providing students with a practical learning environment and highly qualified faculty. Some of the top universities include:
1. Bahçeşehir University
Bahçeşehir University introduced its AI engineering program two years ago. The program is taught in English, and tuition fees are approximately $7,900 per year.
2. Istinye University
Istinye University launched its AI engineering program in 2022, with tuition fees estimated at $5,130 per year.
For graduate studies in AI, students with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, software engineering, or computer engineering can pursue a master's degree in AI at several top Turkish universities.
One of the leading universities for AI master's degrees is Istanbul Aydın University, where the program is taught in English and costs $6,000 for two years.
We have now reached the end of this article, where we covered essential details about studying AI in Turkey, including admission requirements, career opportunities, and top universities.