Department of Psychology

Greetings, everyone! I'm Asude, a final-year student majoring in Psychology at Balıkesir University. Our program aims to explore cognitive and emotional processes while seeking to understand the underlying causes of behavior. In the first year, there are a limited number of courses directly related to the department. These include introductory psychology courses and a biology lesson, which provides us with foundational knowledge about the brain that will prove beneficial in the following years. Additionally, we have a programming course, which distinguishes our curriculum from those of other universities. This course was added to ensure that we stay up-to-date with the evolving field of psychology.
The second year marks the beginning of more specialized field courses. Examples of these courses include research methods, social psychology, the history of psychology, biopsychology, developmental psychology, and cognitive psychology. As we progress into the third year, we engage in more practical lessons. Elective courses are offered in areas such as industrial and organizational psychology, psychopathology, principles of personality, and professional ethics.
During the fourth year, we are required to take mandatory courses in clinical psychology and health psychology, while other courses remain elective. We also have access to an observation and interview laboratory. Additionally, our teachers occasionally conduct workshops aligned with their respective fields of expertise. Towards the end of the third year, we undertake a challenging internship, which provides valuable hands-on experience. After completing the professional ethics course, students have the opportunity to apply for internships at institutions of their choice.
Upon completion of our degree and passing the Public Personnel Selection Examination (KPSS), we can pursue employment in public hospitals and various government institutions such as social services, courthouses, and prisons. There are also opportunities in the private sector, including nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. For those who wish to specialize further, opening our own clinics is another viable option.
My personal interest and curiosity in human behavior led me to choose this field of study. Balıkesir is conveniently located close to major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Bursa. We can benefit from the advantages offered by these cities while avoiding drawbacks such as high expenses, transportation difficulties, and traffic. Therefore, I highly recommend Balıkesir University to prospective candidates.
I extend my best wishes to those preparing for university entrance exams and warmly welcome you to Balıkesir University.