1. What is the medium of instruction at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Instruction for the Turkish program is conducted in Turkish (with 30% English). The English program is conducted entirely in English.
Detailed information: https://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/anasayfa/MevzuatFihristDetayIframe?MevzuatTur=8&MevzuatNo=18714&MevzuatTertip=5
2. Is preparatory school required at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Students enrolled in Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine take the English Proficiency Exam held at the beginning of the academic year. Students who pass the exam start directly in Year I (Phase I). Students who cannot meet the English proficiency requirement undergo English preparatory education at the Hacettepe University School of Foreign Languages.
The procedures and principles regarding preparatory education and the proficiency exam are conducted in accordance with the provisions of the relevant regulation.
Detailed information: https://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/anasayfa/MevzuatFihristDetayIframe?MevzuatTur=8&MevzuatNo=18714&MevzuatTertip=5
3. What is the difference between the Turkish and English Medicine programs?
The main difference between the two programs is the language of instruction. Both programs last six years and include basic sciences, clinical sciences, professional skills, Good Medical Practice, clinical clerkships (rotations), and internship training in line with the same graduation goals and physician competencies. Graduates of both programs receive the title of Doctor of Medicine (MD).
Students admitted to the English program must meet the university's current foreign language proficiency requirements. Since clinical education is conducted at Hacettepe University Hospitals, knowing Turkish at a level to communicate effectively with patients is important for students of both programs.
4. How many main campuses does Hacettepe University have, and on which campus is Medical Faculty education given?
Hacettepe University has two main campuses: Sıhhiye and Beytepe. The basic science, clinical, and internship training of the Faculty of Medicine are carried out on the Sıhhiye Campus. Educational Family Health Centers affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine offer opportunities for on-site observation and participation in primary healthcare services.
Students who need to receive English preparatory education spend their preparatory period at the School of Foreign Languages on the Beytepe Campus; after completing the prep year, they continue their medical education on the Sıhhiye Campus.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/ogrenci_rehberi-32
5. Is the current educational program accredited at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Yes, the faculty's Turkish and English Undergraduate Medical Education Programs are accredited until 2029 by the Association for Evaluation and Accreditation of Medical Education Programs (TEPDAD). Accreditation demonstrates that the educational program has undergone external evaluation in line with national standards and is monitored regularly.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/akreditasyon_-503
6. What is the educational system like at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
The duration of undergraduate medical education is 6 years. The curriculum is integrated; structured to integrate medical knowledge with clinical and professional skills, communication, ethics, professionalism, scientific thinking, teamwork, and social responsibility.
In the first three years, course committees (modules), laboratories, small group studies, and good medical practice are emphasized; in Years IV and V, clerkships and bedside training gain weight. The sixth year is the internship period.
For students who want to conduct research in basic sciences alongside clinical practice and head toward an academic career, an Integrated MD-PhD Program combining Medicine (MD) and Doctorate (PhD) education is offered. Students who successfully complete all requirements of the program graduate with the title of Doctor of Medicine.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/mdphd_egitim_programi-23
7. How does the year/phase system work at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Each year of medical education is named Phase I, II, III, IV, V, and VI.
• Phases I–III: Course committees (modules), small group training, laboratories, and practicals
• Phases IV–V: Clinical clerkships (rotations)
• Phase VI: Internship applications
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/ogrenci_rehberi-32
8. What is the difference between the first three years and the clinical years at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
There are a total of 41 departments in the Faculty of Medicine. In the first three years, fields such as medical biology, medical biochemistry, biophysics, biostatistics, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology-embryology, medical microbiology, medical education and informatics, history of medicine and ethics, pathology, and medical pharmacology are integrated with clinical sciences to establish the scientific foundation necessary for practicing medicine. Theoretical lectures are supported by laboratory work, small groups, and professional skill applications.
In the clinical years, the learning environment largely moves to hospitals, outpatient clinics, wards, operating rooms, and field applications. Under supervision, students interview patients, take histories, perform physical examinations, evaluate clinical findings, and participate in patient management processes in accordance with their level of training.
9. How are professional skills taught, and what educational tools are used?
Professional skills are taught in stages: explanation of the procedure, demonstration by the instructor, student practice in a simulated environment, and receiving feedback. Before real patient applications in the clinic, mannequins, simulators, skill laboratories, or standardized patients are used.
There are videos and practice materials for skills such as hand hygiene, sterile glove use, blood pressure measurement, IM injection, IV cannulation, basic life support, suturing and suture removal, physical examination, and NG tube/foley catheter procedures.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
10. Is simulation training conducted at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Yes. In the Education and Assessment Center as well as the Interprofessional Education and Simulation Center, clinical-like learning areas, simulators, standardized patients, and digital recording systems are utilized.
Simulation enables students to practice without the risk of harming patients, repeat skills, notice errors and deficiencies, and receive structured feedback. Teamwork, communication, clinical decision-making, and emergency management are also developed through simulation.
11. Is support provided regarding career planning at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Yes, multi-faceted career support mechanisms exist at both faculty and university levels so that our students can shape their post-graduation professional paths accurately:
• Academic Advisory System: An academic advisor (faculty member) is assigned to every student enrolled in the faculty. Advisors offer one-on-one guidance throughout their student years, both in academic processes and in professional directions such as specialty selection.
• H.U. Career Development Application and Research Center (KARMER): Through this center within our university, students can receive individual career counseling and participate in professional development training such as resume (CV) preparation, interview techniques, and stress management.
• Elective Clerkship (Internship) Opportunities: 'Elective Clerkship' periods in Phase VI (Internship) facilitate decision-making by allowing students to personally experience the clinical workflow of specialties they are interested in, aligned with their Medical Specialty Exam (TUS) or academic career goals.
• Career Days and Alumni Talks: In events organized in cooperation with the Dean's Office and student societies (e.g., HÜTBAT), physicians working in different specialties, healthcare administrators, and alumni pursuing careers abroad (through USMLE, PLAB, etc.) meet with students to share experience.
Detailed information: https://www.hacettepe.edu.tr/fs/surec_kartlari.pdf, https://karmer.hacettepe.edu.tr/, https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/staj_rehberi-35, https://karmer.hacettepe.edu.tr/is-birligi-protokolleri/guncel-protokol-dokumanimiz/, https://karmer.hacettepe.edu.tr/2026-yili-faaliyetler-listesi/
12. Do students learn how to use digital information sources?
Students are introduced to information literacy and medical informatics starting from their first year. It is addressed in the 'Accessing Information' module of the Learning Medicine program carried out in our Faculty's Phase I curriculum. The aim is not only to access information, but also to evaluate the reliability of the source, critically examine scientific evidence, and use digital tools in accordance with professional responsibilities. Evidence-Based Medicine sessions are organized within the Phase IV program.
13. Do exams in the Faculty of Medicine consist only of multiple-choice questions?
Exams administered at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine do not consist solely of multiple-choice questions. In order to evaluate different competencies such as knowledge, clinical skills, communication, problem-solving, and professional behavior, short answer exams, oral exams, practical exams, assignments, student logbooks, and structured clinical evaluations are used alongside multiple-choice or written exams.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
14. Do I need to change my study methods after starting medical school?
Due to the intensity of knowledge and skills in medical education, spreading learning over time, performing regular reviews, associating information with clinical examples, solving questions, and utilizing active recall methods are generally more effective. Activities such as 'How Do I Learn?' conducted within the scope of the Learning Medicine program in our Faculty's Phase I curriculum help students evaluate their own learning methods.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
15. How does the committee (course committee) system work?
The course committee system, referred to as 'committee' (komite) among students, is applied in Phases I, II, and III. A specific topic, organ system, or clinical problem is addressed holistically with contributions from basic and clinical sciences.
Course committees may consist of large-group lectures, small-group studies, laboratories, and other practicals. At the end of each committee, relevant learning objectives are assessed.
16. What is a committee (course committee) exam?
A course committee exam is an evaluation conducted at the end of each course committee in Phases I, II, and III. Learning objectives covered across different disciplines during the committee period are tested together.
Exams can be conducted using multiple-choice, written, electronic, or mixed methods; laboratory and small-group activities may additionally have in-process or practical evaluations.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
17. How are final and makeup (re-sit) exams conducted?
Information regarding the implementation of final and makeup exams is conducted in accordance with the Faculty's exam regulations.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
18. How is the passing grade calculated?
Detailed information on grade calculation rules and passing scores can be accessed in the official regulation pages.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
19. How can I object to an exam result?
Procedure and timeline for exam result objections are defined under the Faculty's examination guidelines.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
20. Is there a summer school?
Summer school is not offered within Hacettepe University. Taking courses from another university's summer school depends on prior academic permission and recognition of course equivalency.
There is also an opportunity to participate in studies during the summer periods by consulting with relevant faculty members in basic science departments.
21. What is an internship?
An internship is a hands-on training period carried out in Phase VI, the final year of medical education. Intern doctors can participate in history taking, physical examination, patient follow-up, preparing medical records and epicrises, attending clinical meetings, night shifts or shift work, and appropriate professional practices.
Interns are students who have not yet graduated; they do not practice medicine independently and perform their applications under the supervision of responsible physicians.
22. What are the duties and authorities of an intern physician?
Information regarding the duties, powers, and responsibilities of intern physicians at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine can be accessed from our Student Guide webpage, the 'Phase VI Duties, Powers, and Responsibilities' document, and Hacettepe Hospitals Quality Documents.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/ogrenci_rehberi-32
23. What are the library and study space facilities on the Sıhhiye Campus?
Our Faculty of Medicine is located on our university's Sıhhiye (Health) Campus in the heart of Ankara. With its central location and advanced infrastructure, a versatile campus life is offered to our students throughout their education. Located in our faculty is the Health Sciences Library, which serves 24/7 and provides access to rich printed materials as well as all prestigious databases worldwide. Additionally, reading rooms, group study rooms, and computer labs available for use outside class hours are available.
Access to on-campus and off-campus electronic library resources is provided. On-Campus Internet (Eduroam), Off-Campus Resource Access (Proxy), Digital Education Platforms, and computer halls with internet access and academic software installed within the Health Sciences Library serve students who do not have their own devices or need a study environment.
Detailed information: https://library.hacettepe.edu.tr/, https://library.hacettepe.edu.tr/e-kaynaklar/, https://bidb.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/proxy
24. What are the on-campus dining facilities?
Within the Sıhhiye Campus, in addition to the Student Cafeteria offering budget-friendly daily meals supervised by dietitians, numerous canteens, restaurants, and cafes serve across various buildings.
Detailed information: https://sksdb.hacettepe.edu.tr/bidbnew/category.php?id=4&title=beslenme
25. What are the on-campus housing facilities?
For accommodation needs, Student Dormitories and Guesthouses belonging to Hacettepe University exist within campus borders, along with KYK (state) dormitories within walking distance.
Detailed information: https://sksdb.hacettepe.edu.tr/bidbnew/category.php?id=4&title=beslenme
26. How is transportation to Sıhhiye Campus provided?
Our campus is right at the intersection of the Metro (Sıhhiye Station), Ankaray (Kurtuluş Station), Başkentray (Suburban Train), and numerous bus/minibus lines. Thus, reaching the faculty from anywhere in the city is extremely fast and easy. Regular shuttle services (ring buses) are also operated to the Beytepe Campus.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/iletisim-69
27. What health, culture, and sports services are available within our university?
Our students can receive healthcare services from the Mediko-Sosyal center under the Health, Culture, and Sports Department (SKS) located on campus, as well as directly from Hacettepe University Hospitals. An indoor sports hall, outdoor basketball courts, and fitness areas on campus are open for student use.
In our faculty, great importance is attached not only to academic growth but also to social development. Cultural centers (M Hall, etc.), where student societies organize congresses, panels, and workshops, form the social heart of the campus. Our students can also freely benefit from all the massive social, cultural, and sports facilities on the Beytepe Campus.
Detailed information: https://psikolojikdanismabirimi.hacettepe.edu.tr/, https://sksdb.hacettepe.edu.tr/bidbnew/category.php?id=7&title=spor, https://topluluklar.hacettepe.edu.tr/
28. Is participation in the orientation program mandatory?
For newly starting students, the 'UNI101 Introduction to University Life' program and Medicine-specific orientation events are organized. During the first week of the educational program upon starting medical school, an orientation program is held where the faculty and academic operations are explained to students.
Since orientation provides information about the educational system, student rights and responsibilities, campus layout, digital systems, and support units, attendance at all sessions is strongly recommended.
29. What scholarship and economic support opportunities exist for Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine students?
Students can apply for merit- or need-based university supports, KYK scholarships/student loans, foundation and association scholarships, free meal support, and faculty-specific scholarships announced periodically.
Part-time student work opportunities may also be available in various departments of the university. Because scholarship amounts, quotas, continuation conditions, and application dates change annually, announcements from the Registrar’s Office, Department of Health, Culture and Sports, and institutional emails should be followed.
Detailed information: https://oidb.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/burslar-70, https://universitem.hacettepe.edu.tr/burs-olanaklari/
30. Under what circumstances are excuse (make-up) exams held?
Conditions for taking excuse exams due to health or other valid reasons are outlined in the official regulations.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/yonetmelikler_ve_yonergeler-34
31. How are elective courses selected?
In accordance with regulations and the curriculum, elective course implementation takes place especially in Phases I, II, and III. Students select the number of courses specified in the curriculum from among those offered by the faculty.
The contents, quotas, instructors, dates, and selection methods of courses are announced at the beginning of the academic year. Elective courses are also subject to attendance and passing requirements.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/ogrenci_rehberi-32
32. Where can I view the course schedule?
Weekly lecture, small group, laboratory, and practical schedules are announced through undergraduate education systems used by the faculty (KEYPS), institutional email, and term coordinations. Since changes may occur in schedules, these channels should be checked regularly.
33. Where can I access the academic calendar and student guides?
General dates for course committees, exams, clinical clerkships, internship rotations, and elective courses are published in the academic calendar on the official website of the Faculty of Medicine. Student and clerkship guides, regulations, forms, and current education links should also be monitored from the official pages of the faculty and the Registrar's Office.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/akademik_takvim-31
34. How is education conducted in Phases IV, V, and VI?
• Phase IV: Clerkships are conducted in the clinical areas of Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, General Surgery along with Anesthesiology, and Obstetrics & Gynecology along with Urology.
• Phase V: Students receive training in areas such as Psychiatry, Neurology, Emergency Medicine, Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Orthopedics & Traumatology, Dermatology & Venereology, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and Pediatric Surgery.
• Phase VI: This is the internship year. Students participate more actively in the work of clinical teams during mandatory and elective rotations; they serve under the supervision of responsible physicians in wards, outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, laboratories, and field studies.
Clinical training is carried out in Adult, Children's, and Oncology hospitals with over 1,000 beds, accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI), one of the world's most prominent accreditation bodies.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/staj_rehberi-35
35. What occupational health, safety, and adaptation measures are taken to protect students in clinical environments and educational processes?
At Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, the physical, legal, and psychological safety of our students is protected through a structured system from their very first day until the end of their internship period. This safety net is provided through the following practices in pre-clinical and clinical stages:
• Preventive Health and Pre-clinical Immunization: Before starting patient contact and clinical settings (especially Phase IV clerkships), students undergo health screenings. Necessary immunization processes, primarily Hepatitis B, are completed against risks of blood-borne infections to minimize occupational exposure.
• Pre-clinical Orientation: In Phase 3, Patient Safety topics are added to the curriculum. Furthermore, prior to Phase 4, students are given training within occupational health and safety standards. Vital topics such as hospital infection prevention methods, procedures for sharps injuries, personal protective equipment usage, and medical waste management are taught via standardized procedures.
• 'Hello to Medicine' Program: A practice-oriented, case-based program prepared for diagnosis and treatment featuring high-quality presentations and discussions aimed at intern physicians continuing their education. The program is unique in that the content is determined by intern physicians and can also be watched by Hacettepe Medicine alumni via special portals.
• Gradual Orientation Programs: Comprehensive orientation programs are organized for Phase I students new to the faculty and Phase IV students stepping into clinical training for the first time. Hospital operations, emergency management, and how to use warning alert systems (e.g., Code Blue) securing legal rights against violence in healthcare are communicated during this process.
• Simulation-Focused Equipment Usage Training: Student safety is ensured by offering opportunities to practice prior to direct patient contact. In multidisciplinary laboratories and Good Medical Practice centers, core skills such as blood drawing, suturing, and medical device usage are practiced on mannequins and simulated patients.
• Interprofessional Collaboration Training: Within the scope of the Interprofessional Collaboration and Patient Safety course, communication and crisis management skills are taught with the awareness that healthcare is a multidisciplinary team effort. These trainings enable students to communicate properly with other healthcare professionals (nurses, technicians, etc.) in clinical settings, preventing medical errors while ensuring the student feels safe and supported within the hospital hierarchy.
All of these practices guarantee that the student develops in a protected environment not only academically, but also in terms of physical integrity, legal rights, and professional self-confidence.
Detailed information: https://fs.hacettepe.edu.tr/medinfo/2425/hg_mi_kitapcik_25_26_30eylul2025.pdf, https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/heki%CC%87mli%CC%87g%CC%86e_merhaba_progra-628, https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/staj_rehberi-35
36. How are clerkships evaluated?
In Phases IV and V, students are evaluated at the end of each clerkship. Depending on the characteristics of the clerkship, written, oral, practical, or skills exams, bedside performance, student logbooks, case presentations, assignments, and professional attitude evaluations may be used.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/staj_rehberi-35
37. Are there psychosocial support facilities offered to students at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Yes, primarily every student has a Faculty Member Academic Advisor. Mechanisms to support student well-being exist within Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, especially considering the challenges that the educational process and intense clinical clerkships may bring:
• HÜPDAM Support: Our students can benefit from professional psychosocial support and counseling services provided by specialists at the Hacettepe University Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center (HÜPDAM).
• Counseling and Clerkship Management: As noted in clerkship guides, clerkship directors, related department chairs, and assigned academic advisors are tasked with guiding students through academic or personal issues encountered.
• Development and Adaptation Processes: Supportive activities and guidance can be provided with a holistic approach to increase students' stress management skills and prevent burnout.
Students in need can quickly be directed to relevant support units by sharing their situation with clerkship coordinators or the Dean's Student Affairs. These processes are carried out while preserving individual and data privacy.
Detailed information: https://psikolojikdanismabirimi.hacettepe.edu.tr/
38. What supports does Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine offer for students with disabilities?
At Hacettepe University, various supports are offered through both official deanery/rectorate units and student societies to ensure students with disabilities achieve equal opportunity in education and full participation in campus life.
Disabled Student Unit (EÖB) Supports:
Located at the center of the university, the Disabled Student Unit plans personalized services to ensure students' academic and social integration:
• Academic Accommodations: Extending exam durations according to disability status, providing reader or scribe invigilator support in exams, and converting course materials into accessible formats (audio, large print, etc.) are provided.
• Individual Supports: Campus transport support, priority scholarship opportunities, and psychological counseling services in coordination with the Psychological Counseling and Guidance Center are offered to students in need.
Physical Accessibility Efforts:
The university constantly revises its buildings within the scope of YÖK's (Council of Higher Education) 'Barrier-Free University' vision. Recently, ramps, elevators, and directional arrangements made in high-traffic areas such as the Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Law, and Beytepe Library earned the Orange Flag Award in spatial accessibility from YÖK.
Social Inclusivity and Events:
• Barrier-Free Hacettepe Society (EHT): This active student society aims to build a bridge between students with and without disabilities; it aims to prevent social isolation by organizing awareness panels, social gatherings, as well as cultural, artistic, and athletic events.
• Faculty Coordinators: Affiliated with EÖB, dedicated Disabled Student Advisors serve in every faculty and department. Students can directly convey barriers encountered in buildings or classrooms to these advisors for quick solutions.
To systematically benefit from these facilities, students only need to create a Disability Record in the EÖB system during or after university registration.
Detailed information: https://eob.hacettepe.edu.tr/, https://eob.hacettepe.edu.tr/duyuru/turuncu-bayrak-odulleri, https://topluluklar.hacettepe.edu.tr/topluluklar/engelsiz-hacettepe-toplulugu-eht
39. Are there research processes involving students of Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, and what are their activities?
Yes, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine hosts well-established student research societies that support students in gaining a scientific research culture early on and developing their academic skills.
• HÜTBAT (Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine Scientific Research Society): It is one of our faculty's most established and Turkey's most active medical research societies. It enables students to carry out scientific research projects under the mentorship of faculty members, participate in article writing, and organize national/international medical student congresses.
• Scientific Event and Project Support: Students in research societies regularly benefit from activities such as literature reading events, laboratory technique workshops, and statistics training. Within Good Medical Practice, students' skills in evidence-based medicine, critical thinking, scientific inquiry, accessing information, and evaluating research results are supported throughout the program.
• Medicine and Social Responsibility Course: Researching the target group's characteristics and contributions is encouraged during the project planning phase for social benefit.
• Medicine in Human Sciences Session: In our faculty's curriculum, 'Medicine in Human Sciences' sessions exist within Good Medical Practice, addressing medicine not just as a biological process, but as a practice with social, cultural, and ethical dimensions. This multidisciplinary field early in training adds topics like early introduction to scientific methodology, literature searching and critical reading, and research ethics comprehension to our students' research vision.
• Scientific Research Unit: Provides infrastructural and technical support for student society projects within the Dean's office. Our students are encouraged to participate as scholars or researchers in TÜBİTAK projects. Post-graduation research is supported through the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit.
Additionally, the MD-PhD (Integrated Doctorate) Program—a special educational program created by integrating graduate education in basic health and clinical sciences into standard medical school training—is hosted in our faculty.
Detailed information: https://www.hutbat.org/, https://fs.hacettepe.edu.tr/medinfo/2425/HSS_2024_2025-TR_ogrencirehberi.pdf, https://topluluklar.hacettepe.edu.tr/etkinlik/medisep-toplulugu/20-insan-bilimlerinde-tip-kongresi-1774345159, https://fs.hacettepe.edu.tr/medinfo/2526/iyi_hekimlik_202526.pdf, https://bap.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr, https://www.hacettepe.edu.tr/fs/surec_kartlari.pdf#page=34.13, https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/mdphd_egitim_programi-23
40. Is student participation in scientific congresses supported?
Yes, student participation in national and international scientific congresses, symposia, and meetings is strongly encouraged and supported by our Dean's Office:
• Academic Leave (Duty Assignment) Right: Students presenting oral or poster presentations at a scientific congress (or serving on a congress organizing committee) are considered 'on official leave' during the congress by a decision of the Faculty Executive Board upon documenting their participation beforehand. Absences during this period are accepted as excused so that students do not suffer in clerkship or class attendance calculations.
• Academic Counseling and Fund Guidance: Students presenting research are guided by their academic advisors through application processes for support programs provided by institutions like TÜBİTAK (e.g., 2209-A Undergraduate Research Projects) for registration or travel expenses.
• In-Faculty Scientific Environment: Our student societies, led by HÜTBAT, host widely attended national and international medical student congresses every year. In this way, our students gain experience presenting scientific work, attending workshops, and networking right on their own campus without travel constraints.
41. What are the international student exchange programs and study abroad clerkship opportunities in our faculty?
Strong support is given to help students gain international experience and grow into physicians with a global vision. Key opportunities offered include:
• Erasmus+ Study and Traineeship Mobility: Under bilateral agreements with Europe's leading medical faculties, students can spend a portion of their education (usually Phase IV or V) abroad. Furthermore, with Erasmus+ Traineeship Mobility, opportunities exist to do summer internships in European hospitals or research laboratories.
• Phase VI (Internship) Abroad Clerkship Opportunity: Intern doctors can complete a portion of their training (elective clerkships) in qualified university hospitals or research centers abroad arranged by themselves and approved by the faculty board. A dedicated application and guidance module ('Phase 6 Overseas Internship Application') is available on our website for this process.
• Bilateral Cooperation Agreements (Mevlana, etc.): Beyond Europe, intercontinental student exchange opportunities are offered under bilateral protocols signed by our university and faculty with prestigious institutions worldwide.
• TurkMSIC (Turkish Medical Students' Association) Exchange Programs: Through the Hacettepe TurkMSIC society affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students' Associations (IFMSA) network, students can participate in 1-month Professional Exchange (SCOPE) or Research Exchange (SCORE) programs across the globe during summer months.
Applications, quotas, and equivalency processes for international programs are meticulously carried out by the Hacettepe University Foreign Relations (EU) Office and the Faculty of Medicine External Relations Commission, providing necessary guidance to students.
Detailed information: https://abofisi.hacettepe.edu.tr/, https://fs.hacettepe.edu.tr/tip/ekler/pdf/D%C3%B6nem6Yurtd%C3%B1%C5%9F%C4%B1StajBa%C5%9Fvurusu.pdf, https://www.hacettepe.edu.tr/uluslararasi/degisim_programlari
42. What type of physician does Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine aim to train?
To train competent physicians who perform qualified, safe, patient-centered medical care in accordance with scientific, ethical, and legal regulations to protect and improve individual and public health and well-being; prioritize medical identity and values; advocate for health for individuals and society; adopt and apply lifelong learning, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry approaches; sustain personal and professional development; and communicate effectively and work in teams.
Graduates of Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine are expected to:
• Love their profession, and renew/develop themselves culturally, artistically, and socially alongside professional development.
• Grasp the philosophy of scientific thought and adopt medicine as a lifestyle.
• Think critically while practicing the art of medicine and solve problems using evidence-based practices.
• Target lifelong learning for personal development by utilizing ways to access information.
• Prioritize protecting and improving individual and public health.
• View the applicant/patient holistically, as both an individual and a member of a family and society.
• Diagnose and treat common diseases in the community.
• Provide full, continuous, highest-quality service in a trust-based relationship to the applicant/patient.
• Protect and respect the rights of patients and their relatives while practicing their profession.
• Work in multidisciplinary and multisectoral teams, giving importance to teamwork and collaboration.
• Communicate well with individuals and society to protect and promote their health.
• Be sensitive to the health issues of the country and seek solutions for them.
• Plan, execute, and evaluate scientific research.
• Appropriately use health data to meet patient and societal health needs.
Detailed information: https://tip.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/amac_ve_program_ciktilar-9, https://fs.hacettepe.edu.tr/tip/ekler/pdf/2016-2017_112.pdf
43. Are classes at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine held only in large lecture halls?
No. Beside large-group lectures, the program includes small-group studies, problem-based and student-centered activities, laboratory work, professional skill training, standardized patient interviews, simulation, field work, and clinical applications. The method used is determined based on the learning objective and the student's current phase.
44. What is Good Medical Practice, and why is it important?
Good Medical Practice is a vertical educational program spanning the first three years, aiming to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values needed by a good physician in an integrated manner.
The program covers areas such as communication, professional and examination skills, ethics, professionalism, patient safety, clinical visits, humanities in medicine, and evidence-based medicine. Thus, students experience early in their education that medicine requires not only knowledge of disease, but also safe practice and professional responsibility.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
45. What is the contribution of small-group activities to the student?
Small-group activities support students to actively participate in class, ask questions, relate knowledge to clinical problems, collaborate with peers, and receive structured feedback from instructors.
46. What is a standardized patient?
A standardized patient is a person trained to portray a specific patient history or clinical situation consistently and structurally. They help students develop patient interviewing, communication, history-taking, counseling, and certain examination skills in a safe environment.
Practices include interviews, standardized patient or instructor feedback, and debriefing sessions. In this way, students can evaluate their strengths and areas needing development.
47. What is interprofessional education, and is there an interprofessional collaboration program at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine?
Interprofessional education and patient safety training at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine is the first and only program of its kind in Turkey, running since 2016. The program is delivered in cooperation between the Faculty of Medicine and health sciences faculties. Interprofessional education is students from different health professions learning with, from, and about each other. The goal is to develop understanding of roles and responsibilities in the healthcare team, effective communication, teamwork, and patient safety before entering the field.
In our faculty, TIP200: Interprofessional Collaboration in Phase II and TIP300: Patient Safety and Interprofessional Collaboration in Phase III are conducted.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
48. How are communication, ethics, and professionalism training addressed?
• Communication Skills: Essential components of the curriculum regarding obtaining accurate information from patients, informing patients and relatives, shared decision-making, managing difficult encounters, and collaborating with the healthcare team. This training is addressed through sessions with standardized patients within the Good Medical Practice (İHU) course carried out in Phase I-II-III.
• Ethics and Professionalism: Covers topics like respect for patient rights, privacy, reliability, responsibility, academic integrity, and acting in accordance with ethical/legal principles. This training is addressed within 'Ethical and Professional Values' sessions of the Good Medical Practice (İHU) course.
During the clinical period, trainee physicians' rights and responsibilities are defined with patient safety in mind. Education on patient privacy, ethics, and law continues through sessions organized during clinical clerkships.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
49. What role does the Department of Medical Education and Informatics play in student training?
The department contributes to curriculum development and evaluation, measurement and evaluation, faculty development, Good Medical Practice, small group teaching, professional skills, standardized patients, simulation, interprofessional education, medical informatics, and medical education research.
Detailed information: https://medinfo.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/ogrenciler_icin-10
50. What are the advantages of studying at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine as an international student, and how does the language education process work?
In addition to being Turkey's most preferred medical faculty, our faculty hosts international students from many different countries around the world every year.
Main Advantages for International Students:
• Global Recognition and Accreditation: Our faculty is fully accredited by TEPDAD, which meets World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) standards. This gives the Hacettepe diploma high international validity, giving graduates significant advantages in recognition/certification processes like ECFMG (USA - USMLE), Europe, and other continents.
• Two Different Program Options: Both 'Medicine (Turkish)' and 'Medicine (English)' programs are run, offering flexibility to choose according to language competency.
• Advanced Clinical Experience and Case Diversity: Hacettepe University Hospitals are among the major reference centers in Turkey and the region. This allows international students to encounter a broad spectrum of cases during their education, including rare conditions.
• Institutional Orientation: The International Student Coordination Office actively guides international students through residence procedures, adaptation, and campus life.
Language Education Processes:
• English Preparatory School: Students enrolled in Medicine (English) who cannot document sufficient English level (via TOEFL, YDS, or the university's waiver exam) undergo 1 year of intensive English preparation at Hacettepe University School of Foreign Languages (YADYO) before starting core studies.
• Turkish Preparatory Education (TÖMER): International students placed in Medicine (Turkish) must have C1-level Turkish proficiency. Those without sufficient Turkish complete Turkish preparatory training at Hacettepe University TÖMER (Turkish Teaching Center) prior to medical training.
• Turkish Support for Clinical Communication: Even though the medium of instruction for international students in Medicine (English) is English, they need to communicate with patients in hospital settings in Phases IV, V, and VI (clinical clerkships and internship). Therefore, developing basic and medical Turkish skills before reaching clinical years is supported in cooperation between our faculty and TÖMER.
Detailed information: https://internationalstudent.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr, https://universitem.hacettepe.edu.tr/uluslararasi-akreditasyon/, https://www.hacettepe.edu.tr/kalite/akredite_programlar, https://www.mevzuat.gov.tr/anasayfa/MevzuatFihristDetayIframe?MevzuatTur=8&MevzuatNo=18714&MevzuatTertip=5