Designing a ship, captaining on the high seas or developing state-of-the-art marine systems… Is maritime a passion for you? Turkey, with its landlocked location, shipyards and deep-rooted maritime culture, is a treasure trove for those who want to pursue a career in this field. So, which universities stand out, how do you get started, what happens after graduation? In this guide I share 5 important information, let’s set sail!
Turkey has played an important maritime role throughout history and has developed a strong maritime culture from the Ottoman period to the present day. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, the country has a strategic location with coasts on the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black Sea. This makes Turkey a major player in both maritime trade and the shipbuilding sector.
Turkey’s Shipyards and Shipbuilding Sector
Turkey has one of the largest shipyards in the world. Shipyards in cities such as Tuzla (Istanbul), Yalova, Izmir and Antalya build hundreds of ships every year and provide maintenance and repair services. Turkey’s shipyards are specialized in different fields such as mega yacht production, commercial vessels, military vessels and tugboats.
- Mega yacht production: Turkey is one of the world’s most competitive countries in luxury yacht production. Especially Antalya Free Zone has become one of the most important centers in Europe for luxury yacht construction.
- Commercial ships: Turkey’s shipyards have international certifications in the production of commercial vessels such as cargo ships, tankers and ferries.
- Military ships: Domestically produced warships, submarines and patrol boats are being built for the Turkish Navy.
This production power provides a great advantage for maritime and naval engineering students. During the education, the opportunities to do internships in shipyards, to take part in projects and to find a job after graduation are quite high.
Turkey’s Maritime Transportation and Logistics Sector
Maritime transportation accounts for around 80% of global trade and Turkey is an important logistics hub. The Bosphorus is one of the most heavily trafficked waterways in the world, with thousands of ships using the route every year.
- Ports: Turkey has large modernized ports. The ports of Istanbul, Izmir, Mersin, Samsun and Tekirdag are critical points for international maritime transportation.
- Maritime transport: Turkey has become an important center for maritime transport as a strategic connection point between Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
- Kabotage rights and maritime policies: Turkey has legal regulations that support the maritime sector. With the Cabotage Law, Turkish companies were granted the right of transportation in inland waters and domestic maritime companies were strengthened.
Advantages of Turkey in terms of Maritime Education
Turkey offers significant advantages for students who wish to study maritime and naval engineering:
- Strong industry connections: Working in cooperation with universities, shipyards and logistics companies in Turkey, it offers students a wide network of internships and jobs.
- International accreditations: Many maritime education programs in Turkey are recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
- Practical training opportunities: Students receive practical training thanks to simulators, laboratories and practice ships available at universities.
These advantages make Turkey an attractive option for international students who want to study maritime studies. If you want to improve yourself in the maritime field, you can search for the best programs in Turkey and take your place in this dynamic sector!
Turkey is an attractive educational destination for foreign students with its academic quality and strong maritime infrastructure. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Turkey is an ideal country for those who want to study maritime education thanks to its strategic ports and developed shipyards.
Many Turkish universities offer world-class maritime and naval engineering programs with international accreditations. Here are the best maritime universities for foreign students and what they offer!
Language of instruction: English / Turkish
Highlights:
- Training in accordance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) and European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) standards.
- Strong cooperation with modern laboratories, shipyards and maritime companies.
- Students receive practical training through compulsory internships in shipyards and maritime companies.
- Opportunity to study abroad through Erasmus and international exchange programs.
Application Requirements:
- SAT: Minimum score of 1200 (may vary in some years).
- YÖS: Foreign Student Examination (ITU-YÖS) organized by Istanbul Technical University.
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (at least 80) or ITU’s own English proficiency exam.
2. Piri Reis University – Faculty of Maritime Studies
Overview:
Piri Reis University is the only foundation university in Turkey specializing in maritime education. Focused entirely on the maritime sector, this university offers excellent opportunities for international students.
Sections:
- Ship Captain
- Ship Machinery Management Engineering
- Maritime Transportation and Management Engineering
Language of instruction: English
Highlights:
- Maritime Simulators: Students train in state-of-the-art simulators where they can experience real ship operations.
- Training Ship: The university’s own training ship provides students with practical training opportunities.
- International Accreditation: Training in accordance with IMO and EMSA standards.
- Direct Links with Shipping Companies: Students can easily find jobs in shipping companies after graduation.
Application Requirements:
- SAT: Minimum 1100 points.
- YÖS: Foreign Student Exam organized by Piri Reis University.
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (at least 80) or enrollment in the university’s preparatory program.
3. Dokuz Eylül University – Faculty of Maritime Studies
Overview:
Izmir-based Dokuz Eylul UniversityFaculty of Maritime Studies is one of the oldest and most prestigious maritime schools in Turkey. The faculty offers a wide range of academic programs for the maritime industry, preparing students for successful careers on a global scale.
Language of instruction: Turkish
Sections:
- Maritime Transportation Management Engineering
- Ship Machinery Management Engineering
- Logistics Management
Highlights:
- Integrated Education for the Maritime Industry: The academic curriculum of the faculty is designed according to the needs of the maritime industry.
- Advanced Simulators and Laboratories: Students are trained in simulation rooms where they can experience maritime operations in person.
- Research Opportunities in the Maritime Field: Several research projects on marine sciences and technologies are being conducted.
Application Requirements:
- YÖS: Dokuz Eylul University Foreign Student Exam.
- Turkish Proficiency: TÖMER certificate or participation in the university’s Turkish preparatory program.
4. Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) – Sürmene Faculty of Marine Sciences
Overview:
Karadeniz Technical University is one of the oldest state universities in Turkey. Sürmene Faculty of Marine Sciences stands out with its academic staff specialized in marine sciences, marine engineering and maritime technologies.
Language of instruction: Turkish
Sections:
- Marine Science and Technology Engineering
- Fisheries Technology Engineering
Highlights:
- Strategic Location in the Black Sea Region: Proximity to Turkey’s largest fisheries and marine research centers.
- Research on Marine Sciences and Technologies: The faculty hosts many projects in the field of environmental sciences, marine biology and underwater technologies.
Application Requirements:
- YÖS: Exam organized by KTU.
- Turkish Proficiency: TÖMER certificate or Turkish preparatory education of the university.
3. Admission Requirements for Maritime Education in Turkey
The admission process for international students wishing to study maritime or naval engineering in Turkey is based on criteria such as academic qualifications, language skills and some exam results. Many universities in Turkey accept international students and offer various opportunities for them to adapt to the education system.
If you want to study maritime education in Turkey, read on to learn the application process step by step!
- The high school diploma must be certified by the Ministry of National Education (MoNE) of the Republic of Turkey or an embassy in Turkey.
- The high school program you graduated from must be suitable for maritime or engineering studies (it is an advantage if it includes science and mathematics courses).
- Some universities expect your high school GPA to be above a certain level (e.g., minimum 3.0 GPA or 70%+ achievement).
If your high school education was not maritime or engineering-based, some universities may offer a foundation year, allowing you to complete the missing courses.
2. Language Proficiency Requirements
Some of the maritime and naval engineering departments in Turkey offer education in English and some in Turkish.
For English Programs:
- TOEFL IBT: A minimum score of 80-100 is usually required.
- IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 – 6.5 is required.
- Some universities may conduct their own English proficiency test. If you don’t get enough points, you can join the university’s English preparatory program.
For Turkish Programs:
- TÖMER Certificate: A B2 level Turkish proficiency certificate is required to study in Turkey.
- If your Turkish is not sufficient, universities usually offer 1 year Turkish preparatory education.
Even in departments where the medium of instruction is English, it is advantageous to know Turkish while living and doing internships in Turkey. Therefore, it would be useful to try to learn Turkish before coming to Turkey or during your studies.
3. Examination Requirements
In Turkey, international and local exams can be considered in the admission process for foreign students. Most universities require one of the following exams:
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test):
- Many technical universities in Turkey accept the SAT 1 exam.
- Minimum 1100-1200 points are required, but prestigious schools may require 1300+.
YÖS (Foreign Student Examination):
- Some universities in Turkey conduct their own YÖS exams.
- It is a mathematics and logic based exam.
- It is important to check whether the university you are applying to has its own YÖS exam.
Universities’ own entrance exams:
- For example, some foundation universities admit students by conducting their own exams.
- You should check this information on the website of the university you intend to apply to.
Some universities may also accept international diplomas such as IGCSE, IB Diploma, Abitur, etc. If you have one of these diplomas, you may not need to take the SAT or YÖS exam.
4. Interview and Additional Assessments
Some universities may require an interview for foreign students applying to maritime departments.
In the interview process:
- You may be asked why you want to study maritime or naval engineering.
- Your basic knowledge in the maritime field can be tested.
- Your ability to speak English or Turkish can be assessed.
Interviews are usually online and conducted by academics. If you pass the exams set by the university, you may be invited for an interview.
5. Application Process and Required Documents
When applying to a university in Turkey, you need to prepare the following documents:
- High school diploma and transcript (transcript)
- Passport photocopy
- Language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS or TÖMER certificate)
- SAT, YÖS or university entrance exam results
- Motivational letter (may be required for some universities)
- Student visa (obtained after application)
When to Apply
- Universities in Turkey usually start in September.
- Applications are usually made between March – July.
- If you are accepted to the university, you should prepare at least 1-2 months in advance to complete the visa process and registration.
4. Post-Graduation Career Opportunities
There are many career opportunities for maritime and naval engineering graduates in Turkey and around the world. Some of them:
1. Shipbuilding and Shipyard Engineering
Shipbuilding engineers manage the design, production and maintenance of ships in shipyards. Turkey has developed shipyards in regions such as Istanbul, Yalova, Izmir and Antalya. Turkey has an important position in the world, especially in the field of mega yacht production and commercial shipbuilding.
Career Opportunities:
- Ship Construction Engineer: Takes part in the ship design and construction process.
- Shipyard Engineer: Manages production processes and quality control processes.
- Maintenance and Repair Engineer: Provides technical support for the longevity of ships.
Working Areas:
- Big Shipyards in Turkey: Sedef Shipyard, RMK Marine, Sanmar Shipyard, Anadolu Shipyard
- International Shipbuilders: Damen Shipyards, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Fincantieri
If you want to work as a shipbuilding engineer, internship and shipyard experience will be a great advantage in finding a job after graduation.
2. Maritime Transportation and Logistics Sector
Sea transportation accounts for approximately 80% of world trade. In Turkey, you can work in the logistics and transportation sector in major port cities such as Istanbul, Mersin, Izmir, Tekirdag.
Career Opportunities:
- Maritime Transportation Specialist: Manages logistics on global trade routes.
- Port Operations Manager: Manages port operations and plans ship entry and exit.
- Ship Broker: Makes agreements for ship transportation and trade.
Working Areas:
- Port Operations: DP World Yarımca, Marport, Mersin International Port
- International Logistics Companies: Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Arkas Logistics
If you want to work in the maritime transportation sector, getting logistics certificates and learning about maritime transportation management will give you an advantage.
3. Ship Captaincy and Ship Machinery Management Engineering
If you want to work on the high seas and sail around the world, being a ship captain or a machinist could be an ideal career for you.
Career Opportunities:
- Ship Captain: Serves as captain on passenger, cargo and container ships.
- Ship Machinery Operating Engineer: Maintains ship engines and machinery.
- Maritime Traffic Controller: Manages port entrances and exits and maritime traffic.
Working Areas:
- International Shipping Companies: MSC, Maersk, COSCO Shipping, Hapag-Lloyd
- Cruise Companies: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises
- Turkish Shipping Companies: Arkas Line, Turkon Line, Kaptanoglu Shipping
If you want to work as a ship captain or engineer, you need to obtain international certificates (STCW, IMO certificates) and complete sea internships.
4. Marine Technologies and Autonomous Ship Systems
The maritime industry is rapidly developing in the fields of autonomous ships, artificial intelligence-supported navigation systems and marine technologies. Engineers specializing in this field are attracting great interest in Turkey and around the world.
Career Opportunities:
- Autonomous Ship Systems Engineer: Develops unmanned ship technologies.
- Maritime Software Engineer: Develops software for navigation and logistics systems.
- Maritime Electrical and Electronics Engineer: Maintains the electronic systems used on ships.
Working Areas:
- Marine Technology Companies: Rolls-Royce Marine, Wärtsilä, ABB Marine
- Research Centers: R&D laboratories of maritime faculties in Turkey
- Autonomous Shipbuilders: Kongsberg Maritime, Yara Birkeland
If you want to work in the field of marine technologies, it is advantageous to develop yourself in artificial intelligence, software engineering and robotic systems.
5. Academic Career and Research Centers
If you want to pursue an academic career in maritime and naval engineering, you can continue with master’s and doctoral programs.
Career Opportunities:
- Academician in Maritime Faculties: Opportunity to teach and conduct research at universities.
- Marine Science Researcher: Studies on marine ecosystems and environmental impacts.
- Defense Industry Projects: Studies on military ship designs and maritime security.
Working Areas:
- Universities: Istanbul Technical University, Piri Reis University, Dokuz Eylul University
- Naval Research Centers: TÜBİTAK, Naval Forces Command R&D Centers
- Defense Industry Companies: ASELSAN, HAVELSAN, STM
If you want to pursue an academic career, you can apply for a master’s or doctoral program in maritime studies and participate in international maritime research projects.
5. Advantages of Maritime Education in Turkey
Turkey is an excellent option for international students seeking maritime education, thanks to affordable education, internationally recognized diplomas, developed shipyards and strong job opportunities.
Below, you can examine the advantages of maritime education in Turkey in more detail.
1. Economic Education Wages and Living Costs
Turkey offers much more affordable education and living opportunities compared to the US, UK or European countries.
| Category | Turkey | US / Europe |
|---|---|---|
| State University Tuition (Annual) | 300 – 1500 USD | 10.000 – 50.000 USD |
| Foundation University Tuition (Annual) | 3000 – 10.000 USD | 20,000 – 50.000 USD |
| Student Dormitory Fee (Monthly) | 50 – 500 USD | 500 – 1500 USD |
| Monthly Food Expenses | 150 – 400 USD | 300 – 800 USD |
| Monthly Transportation Cost | 10 – 40 USD (Student Card) | 50 – 200 USD |
With the low cost of education and living in Turkey, international students can enjoy a quality maritime education without breaking the bank.
2. Internationally Validated Diplomas
The maritime and naval engineering programs in Turkey are recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
| International Standards | Alignment with Maritime Education in Turkey |
|---|---|
| IMO (International Maritime Organization) | Education programs and internships comply with IMO standards. |
| EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency) | Many maritime departments in Turkey hold EMSA accreditation. |
| STCW Certificates | Students studying in Turkey can obtain the mandatory STCW certificates for working at sea. |
Thanks to compliance with these international standards, students graduating from Turkey have an advantage in finding jobs around the world.
3. Developed Shipyards and Maritime Industry
Turkey is one of the leading countries in the shipbuilding and maintenance and repair sector worldwide.
| Turkey’s Position in Shipbuilding | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Among Top 10 in the World | Turkey is a leader in mega yacht and commercial ship production. |
| Advanced Shipyard Regions | Developed shipyards are located in Istanbul (Tuzla), Yalova, Izmir, Antalya, and other regions. |
| Leading Turkish Shipyards | Sedef Shipyard, RMK Marine, Sanmar Shipyard, Anadolu Shipyard |
| Production Areas | Commercial ships, mega yachts, military vessels, maintenance and repair services |
Turkey’s strong connections with universities provide a great advantage for students in terms of internship and job opportunities.
4. Internship and Job Opportunities
Students studying maritime education in Turkey have an advantage in finding a job after graduation thanks to strong industry connections and mandatory internship programs.
| Career Opportunities After Maritime Education | Prominent Companies / Fields |
|---|---|
| Working in Shipyards | Sedef Shipyard, RMK Marine, Sanmar Shipyard |
| Shipbuilding and Maintenance Engineering | Damen Shipyards, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Fincantieri |
| Maritime Transport and Logistics | Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Arkas Logistics |
| Ship Captaincy and Marine Transportation | MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Turkon Line |
| Maritime Technologies and Autonomous Systems | Rolls-Royce Marine, Wärtsilä, ABB Marine |
There are mandatory internship programs for maritime students in Turkey, giving you the opportunity to gain real experience in the industry before you graduate.
Frequently Asked Questions
In which universities in Turkey is naval engineering available?
Istanbul Technical University (ITU), Yildiz Technical University (YTU), Karadeniz Technical University (KTU), Bursa Technical, Bandirma Onyedi Eylul, Iskenderun Technical, Izmir Katip Celebi and Piri Reis Universities.
How much TL do naval engineers earn?
Salaries for marine engineers vary according to experience and position. A Shipbuilding Engineer can earn an average monthly salary of 56,000 TL and a Ship Mechanical Engineer can earn an average monthly salary of 97,300 TL (2025 data).
In which cities is naval engineering available?
Naval engineering departments are concentrated in major cities connected to the sea, such as Istanbul (ITU, YTU, Piri Reis), Trabzon (KTU), Balıkesir (Bandırma), Bursa, Hatay (İskenderun) and Izmir (Katip Çelebi).
How many maritime universities are there in Turkey?
There are more than 10 universities in Turkey that have an undergraduate Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering or Maritime Faculty (including faculties and departments of ITU, YTU, KTU, Piri Reis, DEU, etc.).