Piri Reis University is a foundation university established on February 8, 2008, in the Tuzla district of Istanbul. This prestigious institution is recognised as a leading maritime education university, developing numerous projects to train experts in the maritime sector and to promote maritime culture. Among these initiatives, activities that increase interest in sailing hold particular importance.
Admission to the Faculty of Maritime Studies requires candidates to meet specific criteria. First, applicants must obtain the Seafarer’s Health Certificate, proving that they meet the health conditions required for the maritime profession. In addition, candidates must successfully pass the physical qualification test and oral interview, carefully designed to assess both their competencies and motivation in their chosen field.
Key Facts
University Type: Private / Foundation (Non-profit)
Established: 2008
Location: Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey
International Students: ~5–7%
Specialisation: Maritime Studies, Engineering, Economics & Administrative Sciences, Law, Social Sciences
Faculties: 4 (Maritime, Engineering, Economics & Administrative Sciences, Law)
Programs: 20+ undergraduate and graduate programs
Student Population: ~4,500
Founding Body: Turkish Maritime Education Foundation (TÜDEV)
History & Foundation
The Turkish Maritime Education Foundation (TÜDEV) was established to meet the needs of Turkey's maritime sector, with the objectives of training qualified seafarers, supporting maritime education institutions, and establishing a university when necessary.
In March 1995, the foundation took a major step towards this goal by establishing the TÜDEV Maritime Education Center, where more than 2,100 watchkeeping officers have been trained to date.
At its extraordinary general assembly meeting on December 4, 2003, TÜDEV decided to transform the center into a higher education institution under the name of the “Turkish Maritime University”, intensifying its efforts in this direction. Following years of preparation, Piri Reis University became a legal entity on February 8, 2008, with the law published in the Official Gazette, contributing greatly to Turkish and global maritime education.
Education & Research
By providing student-oriented education at universal standards, Piri Reis University aims to raise individuals with 21st-century skills, international competence, leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of maritime culture—all guided by Atatürk’s principles and reforms. The university also conducts research and project development to generate, transform, and disseminate knowledge for the advancement of the maritime sector.
The language of instruction in the university’s undergraduate programs is 100% English, while the Vocational School of Maritime Studies offers both 30% and 100% English options. Students must demonstrate English proficiency to begin their education. Those who meet the requirement can directly start their programs, while others must complete the preparatory class before proceeding.
Named after Piri Reis, a historical figure in Turkish maritime history, the university also aims to preserve and transfer maritime heritage to future generations. The Maritime History Application and Research Centre, founded in 2013, supports this mission, while the Maritime Law Application and Research Centre strengthens students’ legal and professional competencies. Additionally, the university’s real-time ship simulator provides officer candidates with hands-on experience to prepare them for the challenges of life at sea.
Student Life & Global Opportunities
Piri Reis University provides its graduates with a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as Marine Transportation and Management Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Marine Machinery Engineering, Marine and Port Management, and Underwater Technology. Graduates can pursue roles in productivity analysis, engineering, and management positions across various industrial sectors.
They are also well-prepared for careers in ship operations as captains, port management, and specialised fields related to underwater technology. With their strong technical skills and maritime expertise, Piri Reis University graduates successfully contribute to both the private sector and public services.
Contact Information
Visitor Address:
Piri Reis University – Tuzla Campus
Postane Mah. Eflatun Sok. No: 8
34940 Tuzla / Istanbul, Turkey
Phone: +90 (216) 581 00 50
Fax: +90 (216) 581 00 40
Email: info@pirireis.edu.tr
