Turkey straddles Europe and Asia in both a literal and a metaphorical sense, having played a powerful role in intercultural exchange from antiquity, to the glory days of the Ottoman Empire, to the present day. A land at the convergence of many cultures, decorated with impressive historical ruins and monuments of the ages, Turkey has both a firm tradition of secularism and a lasting Muslim influence. Turkey is a key player in relations between Europe and the Middle East, and its bid to join the European Union has brought it to the center of international debate at this pivotal point in the country's history.
Institutes of higher education in Turkey are governed by the Higher Education Council and are similar to universities in the United States. Turkish universities boast high standards and internationally recognized degrees, and most of the scientific research in the country takes place there. Students who study abroad in Turkey will discover that the educational system is competitive, especially when it comes to gaining entrance to popular departments.
Istanbul, the cultural center of modern Turkey, was the capital of the Byzantine Empire until the Ottoman Turks invaded in 1453. Better known in the West as Constantinople until the 20th century, the city definitively took its present name when the Turkish leader Ataturk began his modernization and reforms. Several reputable universities in Istanbul boast roots going back to Ottoman times. It is now a cosmopolitan, trendy city with an energetic nightlife. Istanbul was also recently named the European Culture Capital for 2010, due to its role as a European cultural crossroads.
Students interested in studying history in Turkey will find Istanbul fascinating, especially because the 100,000 seat, ancient Byzantine stadium, the Hippodrome, is located in the city. The area also features the Egyptian Obelisk, Column of Constantinos and the Serpentine Column, which was taken from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi in Greece. Bogazici University offers an excellent history program. Another university in Istanbul is Yeditepe University, a prestigious institution at which students can learn Turkish language as well as culture. The university is a popular destination for students who want to study abroad in Turkey. Istanbul was recently named the European Culture Capital for 2010, due to its role as a European cultural crossroads. Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is another university town and home to many expatriates from around the world. Ankara dates back to the Bronze Age, and archaeology students will find a strong program at Bilkent University. Archaeology is an excellent subject to study in Turkey, as the country features the ruins of ancient Troy and is rumored to be the landing place of Noah's Ark, as well as the location of the Garden of Eden.
Another university in Istanbul is Yeditepe University, an institution at which students can learn the difficult Turkish language as well as the area's culture. The university is a popular destination for international students.
Turkey has been home to diverse religious traditions over the years, and today the country is overwhelmingly Muslim, but the church and state are firmly separated, and freedom of religion is enforced. Turkey is the only Islamic country that includes secularism in its Constitution and practices. Students who choose Istanbul's Marmara University will have the option to study religion if they desire.
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is another university town and home to many expatriates from around the world. Ankara dates back to the Bronze Age, and archaeology students will find a strong program at Bilkent University. Archaeology is an excellent subject to study in Turkey, as the country features the ruins of ancient Troy and the sites of some of the world's earliest urban centers, dating back to the Neolithic period.
Architecture students will find diverse examples of historical styles in Ankara. The Middle East Technical University offers a fascinating program, and students will not have to travel far to do fieldwork. Ankara features such ancient architecture as the Ankara Citadel, which was completed by the Romans and altered by the Byzantines; the 2nd century B.C. Temple of Augustus and the Haci Bayram mosque built in 1429.
The famous Cappadocia region will be of special interest to geology students. The area features stunning volcanoes, cave towns and rock formations. The area's underground communities and rock cut churches and monasteries are likely fieldwork destinations for students studying geology at Ankara's Hacettepe University. The Devrent Valley is another geological destination with famous volcanic cones.
Students will find many attractions outside the classroom to keep them busy while in Turkey. The country is surrounded by seas on three sides, and many beautiful beaches line the coasts. The beaches of Antalya on the central Mediterranean coast are particularly popular. Since Greece lies just across the Aegean Sea, students may choose to go on side trips to take in the ancient country and its sights.
Turks are hospitable people, and their national pastimes include drinking tea, playing backgammon and soccer, and even camel wrestling. Students will discover an enchanting blend of Middle Eastern, Islamic and Mediterranean cultures. They can learn about Turkish folk heroes such as Nasrettin Hoca, the 13th century humorist and sage, as well as the 13th century philosopher and poet Yunus Emre and the 15th century folk poet Koroglu.
Students who choose Turkey as a study abroad destination can shop in the world's largest covered market, Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, and then head uptown to browse for discounted fashion goods and clothing in the department stores along Istiklal Caddesi. If they really want to break the bank, students can visit the posh district of Nisantasi. International students will be captivated by the charms of this fascinating land of so many glorious civilizations, from prehistory to the present.