Your Guide to Starting a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy in Turkey
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a medical specialty that focuses on using physical activity and exercise to improve overall health and treat various diseases and health conditions.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is a type of treatment aimed at helping individuals regain their ability to perform daily activities and life functions normally after suffering an injury, illness, or disability. This is achieved through techniques and exercises that enhance strength, flexibility, movement control, balance, and coordination.
OT involves a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s skills and functional status, followed by a personalized therapeutic program designed to meet the individual’s functional goals. Activities in the program include training on the use of assistive devices, developing strategies to overcome functional challenges, and providing guidance to improve the work or home environment to suit the individual’s needs.
Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy (PT)
– Focus: Evaluates and treats injuries or illnesses affecting body movement and motor function, such as muscles, bones, and joints.
– Techniques: Utilizes therapeutic exercises, massage, gait training, and other manual techniques to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and reduce pain.
– Objective: Provides holistic body treatment and focuses on motor rehabilitation and pain relief.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
– Focus: Evaluates and enhances the ability to perform daily activities and life functions more effectively, such as bathing, dressing, cooking, and working.
– Techniques: Uses training in crafts, developing strategies to improve independence, and guidance in using assistive devices if necessary.
– Objective: Improves quality of life by increasing the ability to perform daily activities independently and efficiently.
Individuals are directed to either PT or OT based on their specific needs and health conditions.
Divisions of Occupational Therapy
Neurorehabilitation: Aims to help individuals with brain or spinal cord injuries restore neurological and motor functions.
Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: Assists individuals with muscle, bone, or joint injuries to regain motor functions and alleviate pain.
Pediatric Rehabilitation: Helps children with developmental delays or disabilities to develop motor, cognitive, and social skills.
Geriatric Rehabilitation: Aids seniors experiencing loss of motor functions or balance in maintaining independence and quality of life.
Audiovisual Rehabilitation: Supports individuals with hearing or vision loss to adapt to their disability and live independently.
Psychological Rehabilitation: Helps individuals with mental illnesses improve their cognitive, emotional, and social functions.
Vocational Rehabilitation: Assists individuals with disabilities to return to work or find new employment.
Residential Rehabilitation: Aids individuals with disabilities in living independently at home.
Overview of Occupational Therapy in Turkey
History:
The profession of OT in Turkey began in the late 1950s with the establishment of the first program at Istanbul University.
In 1961, Hacettepe University’s president founded the first faculty for PT and Rehabilitation, which remained the only such faculty for over 20 years.
By now, more than 30 universities in Turkey offer bachelor’s programs in OT.
Number of Students:
As of 2021, there are over 30 universities in Turkey offering OT programs, with an average class size ranging from 20 to 30 students, totaling approximately 2400 to 3600 students annually.
Advantages of Studying OT in Turkey
– Reputable Universities: Many Turkish universities have international reputations and their OT programs rank among the best globally.
– Good Job Prospects: OT is a highly demanded profession in Turkey, with opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, and healthcare centers.
– International Recognition: Turkish OT degrees are recognized by most countries worldwide, allowing graduates to work globally after obtaining local licenses.
– Practical Training: Students gain practical experience in advanced PT centers in Turkey, enhancing their practical and interactive skills.
– Distinguished Academics: The programs are taught by highly experienced professors and academicians in the field of PT.
Cost of Studying OT in Turkey
Studying OT in Turkey is relatively affordable compared to other countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
Istanbul Arel University is among the cheapest for OT, while Bahçeşehir University is one of the most expensive.
Living costs in Turkey are also reasonable, making it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.
Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in OT in Turkey
High School Diploma: A minimum of 70% in high school, recognized by the Ministry of Education, and translated into Turkish or English.
Entrance Exam: Some universities require a medical and paramedical program-specific entrance exam, consisting of a written and oral part.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Turkish or English, proven by tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Health Requirements: Good health status suitable for practicing OT.
Required Documents:
– High school diploma
– Entrance exam results (if applicable)
– Language proficiency certificate
– Passport
– Personal photos
– Application form
Additional requirements may include healthcare experience, volunteer activities, or a statement of intent.
Duration and Curriculum of OT Studies in Turkey
Duration: The bachelor’s degree in OT lasts four academic years, comprising eight semesters, each lasting 16 weeks.
Core Subjects:
– Chemistry: Understanding chemical composition and reactions.
– Physics: Studying laws and principles affecting body movement and balance.
– Biology: Learning about the structure and functions of living organisms.
– Anatomy: Focus on the human body’s structure related to movement and functions.
– Physiology: Studying the functions of body organs and systems.
Specialized Subjects:
– Assessment: Learning to evaluate a patient’s functional status and needs.
– Therapeutic Interventions: Designing and implementing OT plans using various techniques.
– Rehabilitation: Assisting patients in restoring functions and participating in daily activities.
– Professional Ethics: Understanding and applying ethical principles in OT practice.
– Management: Acquiring management skills for leading teams and providing OT services effectively.
Practical Training:
– Clinical Training: Gaining hands-on experience in hospitals, rehab clinics, or healthcare centers.
– Scientific Research: Learning research skills and conducting studies related to OT.
– Practice in Various Environments: Providing OT services in diverse settings, such as hospitals, schools, and homes.
Job Opportunities for OT Graduates
Graduates can work as:
– OT specialists in hospitals
– Rehabilitation clinics
– Healthcare centers
– Schools
– Nursing homes
– Factories
– Sports institutions
Languages for Studying OT in Turkey
– Turkish: Most universities offer OT programs in Turkish, usually at a lower cost.
– English: Some universities provide OT programs in English for international students, generally at a higher cost.
– Bilingual (Turkish and English): Some universities offer OT programs in both languages, providing a middle ground in terms of cost and learning opportunities.
Turkish Universities Offering OT Programs
In Turkish:
– Istanbul Arel University
– Bahçeşehir University
– Marmara University
– Atatürk University
– Istanbul Gelişim University
– Istanbul Okan University
– Trabzon University
– Uludağ University
In English:
– Istanbul University
– Middle East Technical University
– Istanbul Bilgi University
– Istanbul Medipol University
– Bahçeşehir University
– Özyeğin University
– Istinye University
Bilingual:
– Yildirim Beyazit University
– Nişantaşı University
– Aydın University
– Atatürk University
– Istanbul Okan University
– Trabzon University
– Uludağ University
Contact us now at Alemni Shokran platform to learn more about OT, how to become an OT specialist, and how to study OT at Turkish universities and achieve your medical academic goals.