The Physics (English) undergraduate program at İstanbul University – Faculty of Science delivers a robust education in fundamental and applied physics entirely in English. Designed for students passionate about understanding the laws of nature, the program blends core courses in mathematics and physics with laboratory work and modern physics topics. Over eight semesters, students build strong foundations in mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, quantum physics and related disciplines, preparing them for academic research, teaching, or applied science careers.
Located in Istanbul, a vibrant and historically rich metropolis with strong academic and scientific infrastructure, this program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on experimental training. With access to well-equipped labs and a curriculum covering a wide range of physics subfields, students gain versatile skills in analysis, modelling, computation and scientific thinking — making this program a solid choice for those aiming to contribute to science, research or industry.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physics
- Standard period of study: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-taught)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Physics, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Experimental & Theoretical Physics
- Admission modus: National university entrance exam (SAY / YKS)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations: Mathematics, Mechanics & Basic Sciences
- Calculus I
- General Chemistry I
- Physics I – Mechanics
- Introduction to Computer Programming / Algorithm & Programming Basics
- Basic courses in language / social studies (as required)
Semester 2 – Core Physics & Mathematics
- Calculus II
- Physics II – Electricity & Magnetism
- Computer Programming I
- General Biology or related foundational science
- Physics Laboratory I – Mechanics / Introductory Labs
Semester 3 – Intermediate Physics & Methodology
- Mathematical Methods in Physics I
- Differential Equations in Physics
- Optics
- Vibrations and Waves
- Laboratory / Experimental Physics II – Electricity & Magnetism
Semester 4 – Classical & Modern Physics Theory
- Classical Mechanics
- Modern Physics
- Mathematical Methods II / Computational Physics / Numerical Analysis
- Analog Electronics / Instrumentation & Measurement
- Optics Laboratory & Applied Physics Labs
Semester 5 – Advanced/Theoretical Physics: Quantum & Statistical Physics
- Quantum Mechanics I
- Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Modelling & Simulations in Physics
- Specialized elective or research-oriented courses
Semester 6 – Continued Advanced Physics & Applied Areas
- Quantum Mechanics II / Atomic & Molecular Physics I
- Solid State Physics / Condensed Matter Physics
- Fluid Mechanics / Statistical Mechanics / Research Methods
- Physics Laboratory (advanced or specialization labs)
- Elective courses or interdisciplinary options
Semester 7 – Specialized & Research-Oriented Physics Topics
- Electrodynamics / Nuclear or Particle Physics / Modern Applications
- Electronics II – Digital Electronics or Applied Physics Labs
- Seminar / Project based on current physics research topics
- Elective courses: material science, quantum information, energy physics, etc.
Semester 8 – Final Year, Applied Physics & Graduation Preparation
- Advanced Physics Applications / Applied Physics Projects
- Specialized physics electives (e.g. nuclear, condensed matter, cosmology, instrumentation, materials, etc.)
- Final Project / Capstone lab work / Thesis or graduation requirements
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in scientific research, academia, education, engineering, data science, technical consultancy, or industries requiring strong analytical and quantitative skills. They may work as physicists, researchers, laboratory technicians, data analysts, educators, or pursue graduate studies (Master’s / PhD) in physics or related fields.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Physics (English) program at İstanbul University means receiving a rigorous education grounded in fundamental sciences, enriched by experimental training and modern physics studies. The program’s comprehensive curriculum — spanning classical mechanics to quantum theory — ensures a deep understanding of the natural world and builds strong analytical, mathematical and research skills.
With instruction in English, a wide range of physics subfields, and access to research-oriented courses and labs, students are equipped to adapt flexibly — whether aiming for academic research, interdisciplinary work or applied science careers. This makes the program ideal for those who wish to explore fundamental questions in science or apply physics knowledge in diverse real-world contexts.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Department of Physics
Faculty of Science, Istanbul University
İstanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: physics@istanbul.edu.tr
Faculty of Science – Student Affairs Office
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: scienceoffice@istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
