Study of Guidance and Psychological Counseling in Turkey: Key Admission Requirements and Curriculum
Guidance and Psychological Counseling major focuses on helping individuals improve their mental, emotional, and social health.
Overview of the Guidance and Psychological Counseling Major in Turkey
History of the Guidance and Psychological Counseling Major in Turkey
Guidance and Psychological Counseling major in Turkey is relatively recent. Programs in psychological counseling began appearing in Turkish universities in the late 20th century.
Psychology major was established at Istanbul University in 1967, marking the first psychology department in Turkey.
In 1974, Istanbul University established Psychological Counseling and Guidance major, the first of its kind in the country.
Since then, many public and private Turkish universities have established their own departments.
Key milestones in the history of this major in Turkey include:
– 1967: Establishment of the Psychology Department at Istanbul University.
– 1974: Establishment of the Psychological Counseling and Guidance major at Istanbul University.
– 1980: Founding of the Turkish Psychological Association, responsible for regulating and promoting the psychology profession in Turkey.
– 1990: Implementation of the National Mental Health Law, mandating the provision of psychological counseling services across Turkey.
– 2000: Founding of the Turkish Association for Psychological Counseling, which oversees the profession.
– 2010: Increase in the number of counseling programs in Turkish universities.
– 2020: Rising demand for counseling services due to the psychological and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Number of Students in Guidance and Psychological Counseling Programs
A 2021 report from the Turkish Higher Education Council revealed that 1.3% of undergraduate students in Turkey were enrolled in psychology-related majors.
This suggests that between 5,000 and 10,000 students are studying Guidance and Psychological Counseling.
Advantages of Studying Guidance and Psychological Counseling in Turkey
– High-Quality Educational Programs: Turkish universities offer top-notch programs in psychological counseling, blending theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
– Diverse Options: With numerous universities offering this major, students can choose programs that best fit their interests and career goals.
– Strategic Location: Turkey’s unique position between Europe and Asia provides students with diverse cultural and international opportunities.
– Employment Opportunities: There is a growing demand for counseling graduates in education, mental health, and community services, creating numerous job opportunities.
Studying in Turkey not only provides a rich educational experience but also offers broad career prospects and a culturally enriching environment.
Cost of Studying Guidance and Psychological Counseling in Turkey
While studying in Turkey can be more affordable than in some European or American countries, costs vary widely depending on the university, program, and city.
Public universities generally offer lower tuition fees compared to private ones, but expenses can still differ significantly.
For detailed information about costs and to choose the right university, you can contact us at Alemni Shokran.
Admission Requirements for Guidance and Psychological Counseling in Turkey
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
– High School Diploma: A minimum GPA of 80%, with some universities like Istanbul Aydın University requiring 85%.
– Aptitude Test: Some universities may require an aptitude test specific to psychology and counseling.
– Language Proficiency: Most programs are in Turkish, but some are available in English, requiring TOEFL or IELTS scores.
– Additional Requirements: Some universities may ask for a study plan and conduct personal interviews.
Master’s Admission Requirements
– Bachelor’s Degree: A relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75 out of 4.
– Admission Test: Some universities have specific admission tests for master’s programs.
– Language Proficiency: Similar to undergraduate requirements, proficiency in Turkish or English (TOEFL/IELTS) is needed.
– Additional Documents: Research proposal, recommendation letters, and a CV may be required.
PhD Admission Requirements
– Master’s Degree: In a related field with a recognized degree.
– Academic Performance: Specific GPA requirements from previous graduate studies.
– Research Proposal: A well-written research proposal outlining the intended study.
– Research and Academic Experience: Prior research experience or specific academic skills.
– Recommendation Letters: From recognized professors or researchers.
– Personal Interview: To assess the applicant’s skills and research capabilities.
Duration and Curriculum of Guidance and Psychological Counseling Programs in Turkey
Bachelor’s Degree Duration and Curriculu
The bachelor’s degree takes four years (eight semesters), requiring the completion of 120 credit hours.
Core Courses:
– Introduction to Psychology
– Introduction to Psychological Counseling
– General Psychology
– Developmental Psychology
– Biology
– Statistics
– Communication and Reporting Skills
– Educational Psychology
– Social Psychology
– Psychopathology
– Psychological Interviews
– Career Counseling
– Professional Ethics in Counseling
– Individual Counseling
– Group Counseling
– Family Counseling
– Counseling Practice
– Legal Issues in Counseling
Master’s Degree Duration and Curriculum
The master’s program typically lasts two years (four semesters).
Core Courses:
– Theories of Counseling
– Counseling Applications
– Psychological Assessment
– Research in Counseling
– Electives such as Cultural Counseling, Emergency Counseling, Addiction Counseling, Child and Adolescent Therapy, and Family Therapy
PhD Duration and Curriculum
The PhD program usually spans four years, requiring 60 credit hours.
Core Courses:
– Advanced Theories of Counseling
– Advanced Research Methods
– Advanced Statistics
– Scientific Writing Skills
– Cross-Cultural Counseling
– Crisis Counseling
– Career Counseling
Career Opportunities for Guidance and Psychological Counseling Graduates
– Psychological Counselor: In schools, mental health centers, private institutions, private practice, and NGOs.
– University Lecturer: Teaching counseling and psychology-related courses.
– Corporate Consultant: In HR, training and development, and health and safety departments.
– Writer or Editor: For scientific journals, publishing houses, and websites.
– Researcher: Conducting studies on psychological issues.
– Translator: Translating psychology-related materials.
Languages for Studying Guidance and Psychological Counseling in Turkey
Most programs are offered in Turkish, but some universities offer programs in English or other languages, especially in private institutions.
List of Turkish Universities Offering Guidance and Psychological Counseling
– Hacettepe University
– Boğaziçi University
– Marmara University
– Bilkent University
– Üsküdar University
– Yıldırım Beyazıt University
– Istanbul Canal University
– Ankara University
– Dokuz Eylül University
– Pamukkale University
– Istanbul Esenyurt University
– Gazi University
Are you dreaming of a rich educational experience in a country steeped in history and culture? Contact us at Alemni Shokran for more information about studying Guidance and Psychological Counseling major in Turkey. Register now!