Supportive Treatment and Care in Cancer Patients (English)
The Supportive Treatment and Care in Cancer Patients (English-taught) Doctorate program at Istanbul University is a doctoral-level program focused on advanced research and academic training in supportive care, palliative care, oncology nursing/medicine, psychosocial care, and holistic treatment of cancer patients. Designed for graduates with relevant backgrounds (e.g. medicine, nursing, health sciences, or related fields), the program combines advanced coursework, interdisciplinary seminars, and doctoral-level research leading to a dissertation.
Through rigorous study, students develop expertise in improving quality of life, pain and symptom management, psychosocial and palliative care, ethical issues in oncology care, and evidence-based supportive treatment practices. Located in Istanbul — a major academic and healthcare center — the program benefits from access to clinical facilities, oncology departments, research infrastructure, and experienced faculty. With instruction in English, the program prepares candidates for international academic, clinical, and research roles in oncology supportive care, palliative medicine, health services research, and advanced patient care.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Supportive Treatment and Care in Cancer Patients
- Standard period of study: Typically 3–5 years (depending on research progress)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Doctoral (full-time, English-taught)
- Admission modality: Department doctoral admission process
- Area of study: Oncology Supportive Care, Palliative Care, Psycho-Social Care, Health Services Research, Cancer Patient Care, Clinical Research
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Initial Coursework & Seminars
- Advanced Topics in Oncology Supportive Care & Palliative Medicine
- Research Methods, Biostatistics & Epidemiology in Oncology Care
- Ethics, Communication & Psycho-Social Aspects of Cancer Treatment
- Pain Management, Symptom Control & Quality of Life in Oncology
- Elective courses aligned to research interest (e.g. public health, psychology, psychosocial oncology)
Qualifying Phase / Research Proposal Development
- Comprehensive exam or assessment (if applicable)
- Development of doctoral research proposal & design
- Ethics approval and planning for clinical or empirical research
- Literature review and methodology preparation
Doctoral Research & Dissertation Work
- Original research in chosen specialization — clinical, psychosocial, epidemiological or supportive care oriented
- Data collection (clinical trials, patient assessments, surveys, longitudinal studies) or qualitative/quantitative research as per design
- Regular seminars, peer collaboration, and progress monitoring
Dissertation Completion & Defense
- Data analysis, interpretation, and summarizing results
- Writing, submission and defense of doctoral dissertation
- Publication of findings, participation in conferences or clinical/practical collaborations (if relevant)
Career Opportunities
Graduates are qualified for academic careers (university faculty, researchers), advanced clinical roles in oncology departments, palliative care units, hospitals, health services management, policy-making in health institutions, clinical research, public health, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international health organizations, or consultancy in cancer care and patient support systems.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Doctorate in Supportive Treatment and Care in Cancer Patients at Istanbul University offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and advanced patient-centered care in oncology and palliative medicine. The program combines clinical, ethical, psycho-social, and research training under an English-taught curriculum with access to comprehensive healthcare infrastructure and academic resources.
With a focus on improving patient quality of life, evidence-based supportive care, and interdisciplinary research, the program equips graduates to lead in academic, clinical, or policy arenas — making a real impact on cancer patient care and health services globally.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Doctoral Program Office for Supportive Cancer Care & Palliative Treatment
Institute of Health Sciences / Oncology & Supportive Care Department
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: supportivecarephd@istanbul.edu.tr
Graduate & Doctorate 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
