Beykoz University (Turkish: Beykoz Üniversitesi) is a private, non‑profit higher‑education institution located in the Beykoz district of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in 2019, the university aims to provide a modern, research‑oriented education aligned with contemporary societal and industry needs.
History
Beykoz University was founded by the Beykoz Education and Culture Foundation (Beykoz Eğitim ve Kültür Vakfı) under Law No. 6669 governing private universities in Turkey. The foundation sought to create an institution that would serve the growing demand for quality higher education in the Asian side of Istanbul, particularly in the historically rich Beykoz district. The university officially opened its doors to students in the 2020‑2021 academic year.
Campus
The university’s main campus occupies a 10‑hectare site overlooking the Bosphorus, featuring a mix of newly constructed academic buildings, student residences, sports facilities, and green spaces. Key facilities include:
- Central Library and Information Center – housing over 30,000 printed volumes, digital resources, and study areas.
- Research and Innovation Center – supporting interdisciplinary projects and collaborations with industry partners.
- Sports Complex – offering indoor and outdoor courts, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.
- Student Life Center – hosting cultural events, clubs, and counseling services.
Academics
Beykoz University currently offers undergraduate and graduate programs across four faculties and one institute:
| Faculty | Notable Departments |
|---|---|
| Faculty of Engineering & Architecture | Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Architecture |
| Faculty of Business Administration | Business Administration, International Trade |
| Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences | Psychology, Media and Communication |
| Faculty of Health Sciences | Nursing, Physiotherapy |
| Institute of Graduate Studies | Master's and Ph.D. programs in various disciplines |
The university follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and is accredited by the Higher Education Council of Turkey (YÖK). Programs are designed with a focus on practical skills, interdisciplinary learning, and research engagement.
Research and Partnerships
Beykoz University emphasizes applied research, especially in areas relevant to the Istanbul region such as urban planning, marine engineering, and sustainable tourism. The university maintains collaborative agreements with:
- Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
- Koç University
- Various Turkish and international corporations for internship programs and joint research projects.
Student Life
Student organizations at Beykoz University cover a wide range of interests, including academic clubs, cultural societies, sports teams, and volunteer groups. Annual events such as the Beykoz International Cultural Festival and the Innovation Hackathon foster a vibrant campus community.
Admission and Tuition
Admission is based on the national university entrance examination (YKS) scores, supplemented by language proficiency tests for programs taught partially in English. Tuition fees vary by faculty and program, with scholarships and financial aid available for high‑performing students and those meeting specific socioeconomic criteria.
Governance
The university is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the founding foundation, with a President overseeing academic and administrative affairs. An academic senate, comprising faculty representatives and student members, advises on curriculum development and research policy.
References (selected)
- Beykoz University Official Website. “About Us.” Accessed January 2026.
- Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK). “Accredited Private Universities.” 2024.
- Ministry of National Education, Turkey. “Law No. 6669 – Private Universities.” 2019.
Note: Information is current as of February 2026.