With a modern campus on the Asian side of Istanbul, Özyeğin University’s Department of Architecture is a strong choice for students who want to shape the cities and built environment of the future. The vision of the faculty is not only to teach design, but also to transform students into individuals who can think critically, care about sustainability and work in a research-based environment.
The program is offered in English and is conducted in accordance with international standards with a project-based education model. The department, which stands out especially with its research-oriented structure, is really remarkable for foreign students who want to study architecture in Turkey.
Özyegin University Department of Architecture Education and Research
Current Research Areas
The faculty members bring different disciplines together with architecture. These include both theoretically and practically important topics such as Sustainable Architecture, Urban Morphology, Information Technologies and Construction Technologies. Especially academic studies focused on “city” and “design” gain a different meaning in a city like Istanbul that is constantly transforming.
Deepening Education with Research Laboratories
Students can take an active role in the following research laboratories:
- Urban and Housing Lab: Interdisciplinary projects on housing and the city are carried out.
- Space Syntax – SSL: deals with urban morphology through mathematical analysis.
- DRUM: Studies the historical evolution and geographical structure of cities.
- ADRL: Offers an environment for research and production through design.
- BMP Lab: Provides technical training on building physics and energy efficiency.
- LRL – Landscape Research: Works on resilient cities and sustainable landscapes.
- B-Tech Lab: Innovative solutions are being developed for building envelope technologies.
The projects carried out in these laboratories not only provide academic knowledge, but also offer students the opportunity to establish sectoral ties.
Architectural Education Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Özyeğin University is among the Turkish universities offering the most scholarships. There is no need to apply for a special scholarship for foreign students; they are automatically evaluated based on the documents submitted during the application.
A sample fee table for the 2025-2026 academic year:
| Scholarship Rate | Annual Tuition Fee | Prepayment | 1st Installment (Fall) | 2nd Installment (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50% Scholarship | $11,000 | $1,000 | $4,500 | $5,500 |
| 45% Scholarship | $12,100 | $1,000 | $5,050 | $6,050 |
| 40% Scholarship | $13,200 | $1,000 | $5,600 | $6,600 |
| 35% Scholarship | $14,300 | $1,000 | $6,150 | $7,150 |
| 30% Scholarship | $15,400 | $1,000 | $6,700 | $7,700 |
| 25% Scholarship | $16,500 | $1,000 | $7,250 | $8,250 |
Note: The English preparatory program is subject to the same fee. Additional services such as food, dormitory, health insurance are not included in the fee. You can find detailed information about scholarship conditions.
Student Life in Istanbul: What to Expect When Reading
Studying architecture in Istanbul means living in a living laboratory. The city’s historical layers, modern buildings, public spaces… Every corner, every street is a lesson. Özyeğin University provides you with a strong connection to the city. You have the chance to experience both the historical and contemporary texture of Istanbul both in studio projects and field trips.
The campus is not cut off from the city but far from the crowds. Although it is surrounded by nature, it is very convenient in terms of transportation. Especially for international students, Mentor Programs, English support offices and various student clubs help you quickly adapt to social life.
As an architecture student, you will spend most of your time in drawings, projects or workshops, yes. But on the other hand, the art galleries, architecture biennials, building fairs and other events that Istanbul has to offer will constantly feed you. This dynamic environment is truly inspiring.
Where do ozyegin graduates work?
Ozyeğin University graduates work in architecture offices, design studios, public institutions and academia not only in Turkey but also in many other parts of the world. This is mainly due to the practice-oriented and research-based approach to education that the school offers.
Students participate in various competitions throughout their undergraduate life, gain team experience in workshops and take part in real industry projects. They can also expand their international vision by participating in exchange programs through the department’s network of partner universities abroad.
Some graduates set up their own offices, while others transfer to graduate programs in Europe.
Why Özyeğin University for Architectural Education?
Personally speaking, no matter how prestigious a university’s architectural education is, it is incomplete if it cannot offer creative spaces for students. Özyeğin University makes this difference. Laboratories, seminars, international collaborations, student support offices, student development is supported in many ways.
The course content in the department is not only filled with technical knowledge. Values such as critical thinking, social awareness and ecological sensitivity are also part of the education system. In addition, the student-faculty relationship is very open and accessible. This significantly increases motivation.
And perhaps most importantly: scholarship opportunities. There are very few architecture faculties in Turkey that offer such high scholarships to foreign students. If you are accepted with half scholarship (50%), the annual fee becomes quite affordable. Especially if you have a good academic record in your home country, you have a good chance of winning this scholarship.
Studying Architecture at Ozyegin
If you want to think with design, transform cities and provide better living spaces for people, Özyeğin University Department of Architecture really offers you this opportunity. Moreover, scholarship opportunities make it more accessible.
To apply now and evaluate your chances of getting a scholarship, you can contact us via Road to Study.
Don’t delay, start designing your future today!