Dentistry (English)
Tuzla Campus, Turkey
Bachelor of Dentistry (English)
Istanbul Okan University
Dentistry
Program Overview: Bachelor of Dentistry (English)
The Bachelor of Dentistry (English) at Istanbul Okan University is a five-year undergraduate program that prepares students to become competent, ethically grounded dental professionals. Launched in the 2017-2018 academic year, the English-medium program follows the same rigorous curriculum as its Turkish counterpart, with all theoretical courses and examinations conducted entirely in English throughout the full five years.
The first two years focus on basic medical sciences and preclinical dentistry training at the Health Sciences Education Complex on the Tuzla Campus, where students use state-of-the-art Manipulation, Simulation (Phantom), and Plaster and Acrylic Laboratories. From the third year onward, students transition to clinical education at the Faculty of Dentistry Education and Training Hospital, gaining hands-on patient experience in modern clinics equipped with advanced dental units and radiological imaging devices.
The curriculum is aligned with Turkey's National Core Education Program for Undergraduate Dentistry Education (DUCEP), approved by the Council of Higher Education (YOK). Graduates receive the title of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and are prepared for careers in private practice, public health institutions, specialty training, or academic research.
Key Program Highlights
- Full five-year English-medium instruction with all courses and exams in English
- Dedicated Faculty of Dentistry Education and Training Hospital with modern clinics and general anesthesia operating rooms
- Curriculum aligned with Turkey's national DUCEP standards approved by YOK
- Multidisciplinary clinical training in the fifth year to prepare students for professional practice
Curriculum and Modules
The five-year dentistry curriculum at Istanbul Okan University is structured to build a strong foundation in basic medical sciences before progressing to preclinical and clinical dentistry. The program is regularly updated by the Faculty's Education Commission in line with the DUCEP national framework and contemporary dental education standards.
Basic Medical Sciences
60 ECTSCovers anatomy, physiology, histology and embryology, biochemistry, and microbiology. These foundational courses are taught in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine during the first two years.
Dental Materials Science and Preclinical Dentistry
50 ECTSIntroduces dental materials, restorative techniques, and prosthodontics through theoretical instruction and hands-on practice in simulation (phantom) laboratories. Students develop essential manual skills before treating patients.
Restorative Dental Treatment and Endodontics
50 ECTSFocuses on the diagnosis and treatment of dental caries, pulp diseases, and root canal therapy. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and clinical competence in preserving natural tooth structure.
Prosthodontics and Oral Rehabilitation
45 ECTSCovers fixed and removable prosthetic treatments, implant-supported restorations, and full-mouth rehabilitation. Practical training progresses from laboratory work to direct patient care in the clinical years.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Radiology
45 ECTSTeaches surgical principles including tooth extraction, minor oral surgery, and diagnostic imaging techniques. Students learn to interpret radiographic images and manage surgical patients in a hospital setting.
Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
50 ECTSCovers the diagnosis and management of malocclusions, preventive and interceptive orthodontic treatments, and the specialized dental care of children and adolescents. Includes clinical rotations in the final years.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Istanbul Okan University welcomes international applicants to its English-medium Dentistry program. Admission is based on academic qualifications and language proficiency, with no separate university entrance exam required for most international students. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompleted secondary education certificate (translated and certified)
- Minimum Grade Requirement80% or equivalent in high school studies
- Equivalency CertificateDenklik (equivalency document) from the Turkish Ministry of Education is required
- Science BackgroundStrong foundation in biology and chemistry is recommended
- Age RequirementNo age limit; applicants under 18 must provide parental consent letter and birth certificate
Language Requirements
- English ProficiencyProof of English proficiency required (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent); students who do not meet the threshold must complete a compulsory English preparatory year
- Preparatory YearA compulsory English preparatory class is available for students who do not pass the university's language proficiency exam
- Turkish LanguageNot required for the English-medium program, though basic Turkish is beneficial for patient communication during clinical years
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Istanbul Okan University offers several scholarship and discount opportunities for international students enrolling in the Dentistry program. Scholarship availability and amounts may vary by academic year, so contact Uni4Edu for the most current funding options.
International Student Tuition Discount
Istanbul Okan University regularly offers discounted tuition rates for international students in the Dentistry program. The discount amount varies by intake year and is applied directly to annual fees.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Dentistry program at Istanbul Okan University receive the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) title and are equipped for a wide range of professional opportunities. The program's emphasis on clinical training and evidence-based practice ensures graduates are well-prepared for both private and public sector roles in dentistry.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employment Settings
Rankings and Recognition
Istanbul Okan University is accredited by Turkey's Council of Higher Education (YOK) and is recognized by numerous countries internationally. The university continues to climb in global rankings, reflecting its growing academic reputation and research output.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine (incl. Dentistry) | EduRank | #87 in Turkey |
| Health Sciences | Nature Index | #1078 Globally |
| Overall (Turkey) | EduRank | #77 in Turkey |
| Overall (Global) | Scimago Institutions Rankings | #3393 Globally |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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