Supportive Care in Cancer Patients – Master’s with Thesis
The Supportive Care in Cancer Patients (English) Master’s with Thesis program at Istanbul University offers an advanced, interdisciplinary education focused on comprehensive supportive and palliative care for cancer patients. The program combines courses in oncology support, psychosocial care, pain management, palliative medicine, patient-centered care, ethics, and research methodology. Through theoretical training, practical clinical exposure, and a thesis project, students gain skills to address physical, psychological, social, and quality-of-life needs of cancer patients. The program is taught in English and aims to prepare graduates for roles in oncology support, palliative care, clinical research, and patient care management.
Located in Istanbul — with strong medical and academic infrastructure — the program provides access to healthcare settings, oncology departments, and interdisciplinary teams, enabling hands-on experience and real-world relevance. Its curriculum offers a holistic approach to cancer patient care, covering both medical and supportive dimensions, making it suitable for those aiming to work in oncology, palliative care, nursing management, or health services research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Supportive Care in Cancer Patients
- Standard period of study: 2 years (4 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, English-taught)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Oncology Supportive Care, Palliative Medicine, Patient Care, Psychosocial & Medical Support, Health Services
- Admission modus: Department’s graduate admission process
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Oncology & Supportive Care
- Principles of Oncology & Cancer Biology
- Introduction to Supportive and Palliative Care
- Ethics & Communication in Patient Care
- Psychology / Psychosocial Aspects of Cancer Treatment
- Research Methods & Medical Statistics
Semester 2 – Clinical Supportive Care & Multidisciplinary Approaches
- Pain Management & Symptom Control in Cancer Patients
- Nutritional, Psychological, and Social Support in Oncology
- Palliative Medicine Practices and Care Planning
- Patient & Family Counseling / Psycho-Oncology
- Elective / Supporting Courses (e.g. health policy, quality of life, epidemiology)
Semester 3 – Specialized Topics & Research Preparation
- Advanced Supportive Care for Specific Cancer Types (hematologic, solid tumors, pediatrics, etc.)
- Quality of Life, Survivorship & Rehabilitation in Oncology
- Palliative and End-of-Life Care Ethics & Practical Issues
- Thesis Project Proposal & Research Planning
- Seminar / Literature Review / Evidence-based Care Studies
Semester 4 – Thesis & Clinical Research / Practice
- Thesis Research: clinical, psychosocial or health-services oriented project
- Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation
- Integration of Clinical Practice & Research Findings
- Professional Preparation for Healthcare, Policy or Academic Roles
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles in oncology care support, palliative care services, hospital or clinic-based supportive care teams, health services management, patient advocacy, cancer patient counseling, psychosocial support, hospice care, or applied research. They may work in hospitals, oncology centers, palliative care units, NGOs focused on cancer care, public health institutions, or continue with doctoral studies in oncology supportive care, public health, palliative medicine or health services research.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Supportive Care in Cancer Patients Master’s program at Istanbul University means committing to a meaningful, human-centered graduate education combining medical, psychosocial, and ethical training to improve quality of life for cancer patients and their families.
With instruction in English, access to Istanbul’s medical infrastructure, and a curriculum addressing the full spectrum of patient needs — from pain management and symptom control to psychosocial support and ethical care — the program offers a unique opportunity for dedicated professionals seeking impact in cancer care.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Department / Graduate Program Office for Supportive Cancer Care
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: supportivecare@istanbul.edu.tr
Institute of Graduate Studies – Student Affairs Office
Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: graduateoffice@istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
