If you imagine yourself at the center of design and want to transform your environment, not just observe it, you are in the right place. Özyeğin University Department of Interior Architecture and Environmental Design aims to educate students who are creative thinkers, solution-oriented and have an international vision. But the education here is not limited to classical theories. Here, you transfer your imagined ideas to the real world. The drawing you produce in the studio may be featured in an exhibition a year later. That’s why this department is not just a university education, but a design journey.
Why Interior Architecture Education at Özyeğin University?
Faculty Vision and Educational Approach
Özyeğin University may be a young institution, but its Faculty of Architecture and Design is quite ambitious, especially in the field of interior architecture. With its modern campus, interdisciplinary perspective and studio-based education system, it balances theory and practice. The department sees design not only as an aesthetic issue, but also as a tool that facilitates and transforms life.
The faculty not only provides its students with technical knowledge, but also raises individuals who are sensitive to issues such as social awareness, sustainability and user experience. If you want to get more information, I suggest you take a look at Özyeğin University Faculty of Architecture and Design.
Advantages for International Students
The fact that the department is 100% in English is a great advantage for students from abroad. The faculty also offers an environment where students from different countries can easily integrate. Thanks to mentorship programs, cultural events and student clubs, you are not alone. Studying in a multicultural city like Istanbul also develops you both creatively and socially.
Training Content and Application Areas
Studio Courses and Practical Training
Interior Architecture and Environmental Design education is centered on studio courses. Each semester we work on design problems at different scales. For example, one semester you design a small house, while the next semester you design the transformation of a public space. These projects are evaluated not only by lecturers but also by experts from the sector from time to time. This way you can get feedback even before you graduate.
In the applied courses, you receive direct practice-based training in areas such as computer-aided design, digital production and material knowledge. Working on real-life scenarios puts you a few steps ahead when entering the industry in the future.
Research Topics and Current Themes
The department is very active not only in practice but also in academic research. Both professors and students carry out collaborative projects on themes from different disciplines. In the table below you can see some prominent research areas:
| Research Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Compositions | Use of natural elements in landscape and interior spaces |
| Computational Design | Software-based creative design methods |
| Residential Interiors and Gender | Impact of social factors on interior space organization |
| Building Information Modeling (BIM) | Integration of the construction process through digital modeling |
| Sustainability and Material Systems | Eco-friendly materials and energy efficiency |
This research is not limited to academic publications. Students also take part in exhibitions, workshops and competitions. You become part of a really active design community.
Specializing in Color and Light with CoLight Lab
How the Experimental Education Environment Works
Color and light in design can completely change the spirit of a space. The CoLight Lab, established within Özyeğin University, was established to examine these two elements in a scientific and experimental framework. Here, students experience concepts such as light intensity, shadow creation and color saturation in practice.
The laboratory environment is not limited to experimentation. At the same time, these experiences are directly integrated into studio projects. So you can take theoretical knowledge and put it into practice in an instant.
Gate to Industry: Consulting and Workshops
CoLight Lab serves not only students but also the industry. It provides consultancy for industrial and commercial projects, enabling students to get involved in real projects. In addition, regular workshops bring together both the academic world and the industry.
This environment makes you think like a professional designer before you graduate. Obviously, this laboratory is one of the biggest advantages of this department.
Tuition Fee and Scholarship Options
How Much is the Annual Education Fee?
The annual tuition fee for the Department of Interior Architecture and Environmental Design at Ozyegin University is 22,000 USD as of 2025. At first glance, this fee may seem high for this level of education in Turkey, but considering the quality of education, the laboratory facilities and the studio-based system, it becomes a reasonable investment for many international students.
In addition to tuition fees, living expenses are also an important item for students in a big city like Istanbul. However, the support services offered by the university such as accommodation, transportation and cafeteria help offset this cost.
Scholarship Opportunities for International Students
Özyeğin University offers various scholarship programs for international students. While merit-based scholarship opportunities are evaluated during the application process, some students can also receive support based on their special talents or portfolio quality.
Here are the main types of scholarships:
| Scholarship Type | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Merit-Based Scholarship | Discount ranging from 25% to 100% |
| Art/Design Portfolio Scholarship | Based on portfolio evaluation |
| Sibling / Alumni Scholarship | Additional 10–15% discount |
The university may also offer more specific support, such as social responsibility scholarships and need-based scholarships. It is always useful to investigate in detail before applying.
Life in Istanbul and Sources of Inspiration
Education Intertwined with Art, Architecture and Culture
Istanbul is no ordinary city for design students; it is an open-air museum. From Ottoman palaces to the Levent neighborhood full of modern buildings, every street carries a design inspiration. As you travel around the historical peninsula, you watch not only the past but also the evolution of architecture live.
The university integrates this cultural richness into its educational program. Extracurricular excursions, exhibition visits and seminars offer a learning experience in touch with the city. Also, sitting on the Bosphorus and watching the sunset can open the door to much more creative ideas than one might think.
Student Life and Campus Experience
Özyeğin University campus is located in Çekmeköy, in the east of Istanbul. Surrounded by greenery and with a modern design, this area combines both a tranquil academic environment and a social campus life. Libraries, gyms, cafes, dormitories and social areas meet all the needs of students.
The campus also has numerous student clubs and workshops. The architecture and design club offers students the opportunity to participate in competitions, meet guests from the industry and exhibit their own projects.
Application Process for 2025: Start Before It’s Too Late
Required Documents and Application Steps
The application process is quite clear but requires attention. It is especially important for international students to prepare the documents correctly. When applying to the university, you need to prepare the following documents:
| Required Documents | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport Photocopy | Current and valid |
| High School Diploma & Transcript | English translation |
| Letter of Intent | Writing about why you chose this department |
| Language Proficiency Certificate | TOEFL iBT min. 80% or equivalent |
| Portfolio (not required) | A file to demonstrate design skills |
Applications are usually taken between March – August. The earlier you apply, the more advantageous you are in terms of scholarships and placements.
Language Proficiency and Admission Criteria
Since the Department of Interior Architecture and Environmental Design is taught entirely in English, you need to document your language level with TOEFL, IELTS or a similar exam. The minimum score for TOEFL iBT is 80. If your language level is not sufficient, you can join the university’s preparatory program.
Academic achievement, the ability to think creatively and a passion for design are the keys to acceptance in this department.
Design Your Future Starts Here
Why You Should Apply Today
Interior Architecture is not just a profession; it is a way of life that shows how you look at the world, how you feel and how you create solutions. Özyeğin University offers you this way of life on a scientific, creative and international level. The longer it is delayed, the more opportunities may be missed, especially limited scholarship places and dormitory opportunities.
The application process may seem complicated, but you are not alone. The Road to Study team is with you every step of the way, from application documents to scholarship counseling. Act now and take the first step.