The combination of genetics, artificial intelligence and data science has created a brand new field: bioinformatics. Analyses that used to be carried out only in laboratories are now solved with codes on computer screens. In Turkey, interest in this field has increased significantly in the last few years. Especially when biotechnology and health data management came to the agenda after the pandemic, universities started to open programs in this field rapidly. In this article, I have put together all the details for international students considering studying bioinformatics in Turkey.
What is bioinformatics and why is it important?
Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field that combines computer science, mathematics and statistics to analyze biological data. It has a wide range of applications, such as finding the cause of genetic diseases, developing drugs or performing evolutionary analysis. The biggest reason for the increasing interest in this field in Turkey is the digitalization of the health sector.
Which universities have bioinformatics?
In rare cases, such as at Kadir Has University, there is a direct undergraduate education in bioinformatics and genetics.
In universities such as Hacettepe University, Middle East Technical University (METU), Istanbul University and Gebze Technical University (GTU), there are field-specific, interdisciplinary master’s and doctoral programs under the relevant institutes.
Such as the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics of Bosphorus University or the Biotechnology and Bioengineering program of Izmir Institute of Technology (IYTE), bioinformatics is included as a specialization or research area within the main department
| University | Program Type | Education Language | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hacettepe University | Higher Undergraduate | English | Ankara |
| Sabancı University | Master’s Degree (Computational Biology) | English | Istanbul |
| Boğaziçi University | Bachelor’s Degree (Molecular Biology + Double Major Option) | English | Istanbul |
| Istanbul Technical University | Master’s Degree | Turkish/English | Istanbul |
| Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center | Doctorate & Project Based | English | Izmir |
Note: Preparatory class and foreign student quotas may vary according to programs.
Differences Between State and Foundation Universities
State universities are generally more affordable but have limited quotas. Foundation universities, on the other hand, can offer scholarship options and have more up-to-date research infrastructure. In particular, Sabancı and Koç University are institutions that invest heavily in bioinformatics research.
Which-Section-Crossing Can Be Done?
Although the bioinformatics department is sometimes not offered as an independent undergraduate program, graduates of the following departments can easily transfer to this field:
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Computer Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Mathematics / Statistics
If you are considering applying to a Turkish-language program, our guide on The importance and advantages of studying Turkish in Turkey can help guide you.
What Software Languages Bioinformatics Uses
If you are thinking “Can I get into this program without knowing coding?”, you are not alone. I was also panicked in the first Python class, but believe me, things fall into place over time. Programs in Turkey usually start with basic programming knowledge and you reach an advanced level in the process.
Python, R, Java: Which One Is Used For What?
- Python: The most common language. It is used in many fields from genetic data analysis to image processing.
- R: Especially strong in statistical analysis. It is preferred in clinical trials.
- Java and C++: Used in algorithms where performance is critical.
Is Coding Knowledge Essential? Advice for Beginners
Knowledge of coding is an advantage at the beginning, but not essential. Many universities offer basic programming courses in the first semester.
Software Oriented Curricula in Turkey
Universities such as Bogazici, Sabanci and Bilkent offer intensive courses in data analytics and algorithms. Curricula generally focus on the following areas:
- Biological data mining
- Genome sequencing and analysis
- Modeling with artificial intelligence
- Big data and health data management
What does a Bioinformatics Graduate Do?
If you are a bioinformatics graduate, you don’t have to stay only in academia, on the contrary, there are serious opportunities in the private sector and entrepreneurship. While investments in this field are increasing every year in Turkey, things are growing even faster globally.
Academia, Private Sector and R&D Institutions
Some of the main areas where graduates can work are:
- Universities and research centers
- Health and pharmaceutical companies (Pfizer, Abdi İbrahim, Gen İlaç)
- Data science and artificial intelligence companies
- Government agencies such as TÜBİTAK, Ministry of Health
Biotechnology Start-ups and International Research Projects
There is a great need for bioinformatics experts in the new generation start-up ecosystem in Turkey. Especially Istanbul and Izmir based startups are working on clinical data analysis and genetic testing software.
Admission Requirements and Scholarships for International Students
The process for foreign students who want to study in Turkey is actually quite clear, but some critical details should not be overlooked. Especially language proficiency and equivalency must be checked in advance.
YÖK Equivalency and Language Requirements
- The university you apply to must be recognized by YÖK.
- For English programs, a TOEFL / IELTS score is usually required.
- For Turkish programs, TÖMER Certificate or preparatory school may be mandatory.
Turkey Scholarships and University-specific Support
The most well-known scholarship system for international students is the Turkey Scholarships program. Every year, thousands of students receive this scholarship to study full-time in Turkey. Some universities also offer:
- Success scholarships (25%-100%)
- Housing support
- Food scholarships and transportation assistance
Application Process Considerations
Application dates are usually between March and June. It is very important to upload your documents completely and on time.
Some universities only accept TÖMER in Turkey: What You Need to Know About Turkish Teaching Centers is accepting. If you are wondering how to buy from which center, you can take a look at this article.
Bioinformatics in Turkey is Waiting for You
With so many options, so many opportunities, there is no reason to delay. If you like both science and software, bioinformatics is for you. The quality of education, research opportunities and cultural diversity that Turkey offers make this experience even more meaningful.
Why Turkey? Education + Culture + Opportunities
- European quality education at affordable costs
- A life experience where different cultures meet
- Internationally recognized diploma