Psychology

As the Department of Psychology, our aim is to educate our students as individuals equipped with the theoretical foundations of the field and practical knowledge and skills. In this context, the expected gains from our graduates are as follows:
EO1. To have comprehensive theoretical knowledge regarding the basic theories, research methods, current applications and various sub-disciplines of psychology.
EO2. To have the competence to put the theoretical knowledge they have acquired in psychology into practice.
EO3. To be individuals who have developed critical and analytical thinking skills with the scientific knowledge they have acquired during their education, have mastered scientific research processes, are sensitive to ethical principles and can follow current developments in their field.
EO4. To have internalized the professional ethical awareness they have gained during their psychology education, both in their professional practices and in their relationships with their colleagues.
EO5. To be competent to conduct academic or practical studies in various fields such as education, health, development and industry and to be equipped to specialize in different sub-fields of psychology and to be ready for postgraduate education.

The CIU Psychology Undergraduate Program is a four-year higher education program that aims to understand, analyze and apply the mental, emotional and behavioral processes of individuals on a scientific basis. The program is designed in accordance with the National Qualifications Framework of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) and the ISCED (International Standard Education Classification) criteria (ISCED Field Code: 0313 – Psychology, Level: 6). While students learn the basic theories and research methods of psychology, they gain competencies such as scientific thinking, critical analysis, practicing in accordance with ethical principles, using psychological assessment tools, interdisciplinary work, cultural sensitivity and developing effective communication skills.
Graduates of the program can be employed in various sectors from clinical and health institutions to education, human resources and judicial institutions; they can also continue their academic careers by continuing their postgraduate programs thanks to their skills in scientific reporting and focusing on academic studies. This undergraduate program, with 240 ECTS, is fully compliant with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF Level 6) and the first cycle of the Bologna Process (QF-EHEA First Cycle) and offers a psychology education that complies with contemporary, interdisciplinary and universal standards.
The CIU Psychology Department stands out with the comprehensive education it offers in the fields of cognitive psychology and neuropsychology. These fields, which focus on understanding the relationship between the brain and behavior, are one of the most dynamic and rapidly developing branches of modern psychology. The department provides students with detailed information about the structures and functions of the human brain and the effects of these functions on behavior, emotion and cognition. Thanks to advanced facilities of the neuropsychology laboratory, students have the opportunity to use cognitive assessment tools and examine the effects of brain damage or neurological disorders on cognitive processes. This in-depth cognitive psychology education provides students with a significant advantage both in their academic careers and in clinical practice.
Thanks to the diverse and qualified faculty with international academic backgrounds and different areas of expertise, students have the opportunity to deeply explore the multifaceted structure of psychology. Graduates can be employed in various fields such as clinical, education, human resources and forensic psychology, as well as continue on to postgraduate programs for an academic career.
One of the distinguishing features of the CIU Psychology Department is the emphasis on experimental psychology. Students undergo intensive training to develop their skills in scientifically investigating psychological phenomena. This is supported not only in lectures but also by practical applications in modern laboratory environments and various computer programs. Students actively participate in the processes of designing research, collecting data, analyzing it and interpreting the results using computer programs in an online environment. This experimental approach develops students' critical thinking, problem solving and independent research skills, preparing them for their future academic or professional careers.
The CIU Department of Psychology adopts an interdisciplinary approach that emphasizes the strong connection between experimental studies, cognitive psychology, neuropsychology and clinical psychology. This allows students to combine knowledge from different fields to produce more holistic solutions to complex psychological problems. In addition, the research-oriented structure of the department encourages students to get involved in scientific projects from an early age. The active participation of the academic staff in current research inspires students to keep up with the latest scientific developments and to conduct their own research.
As a result, the Department of Psychology at CIU distinguishes itself from other psychology departments with its special emphasis on experimental studies, neuropsychology and clinical psychology. The combination of these three core areas provides students with a comprehensive, practical and in-depth psychology education, equipping them to succeed in both their academic and professional lives. This structure aims to prepare graduates to become competent psychologists who can produce solutions to complex psychological problems with scientific and ethical approaches.
Lastly, the program also successfully received the accreditation of the Science, Literature, Science - Literature, Language and History - Geography Faculties Curriculum Evaluation and Accreditation Association (FEDEK) in 2024 (unconditionally, for 5 years), documenting the quality of education at national and international levels.

In order to graduate from the undergraduate program, it is necessary to succeed in all of the courses listed in the curriculum of the program by getting the grade at least D/ S with a minimum 240 ECTS (123 in national credits) and completed 2 summer training in a specified duration and quality and to have a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.00 out of 4.00

Program Name: Psychology
Program Degree:
: Bachelor's Degree – Psychology Bachelor’s Degree
Duration: : 4 academic years
Number of Semesters: : 8 academic semesters
Minimum Number of Semesters Required for Enrollment : 2 academic semesters
Minimum Number of Credits: : 123 credits (240 ECTS)
Total Number of Courses: : 43
Number of Credit Courses: : 41
Number of Non-Credit Courses: : 2
Number of Mandatory Courses: : 32 (AC + UC)
Number of Elective Courses: : 11 (AE + FE + UE)
Number of “Faculty Elective” and “Field Elective” Courses: : 3 UE, 5 AE
Number of “Free Elective” Courses: : 3 FE
Graduation Requirements: : Completion of the Program Graduation Requirements.
Program Graduation Requirements 1. 1. A minimum of 123 credits (240 ECTS) of study must be completed,
2. 2. All courses in the program must be completed and a minimum of a “D” or “E” letter grade must be received for credit courses and an “S” or “E” letter grade for non-credit courses,
3. 3. A General Academic Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.00 or above out of 4.00 is required.
4. 4. Since the program is in the form of formal education, students are required to attend 70% of the courses.

Graduates of the Department of Psychology at Cyprus International University (CIU) have a wide range of employment opportunities thanks to the strong theoretical and practical education they receive. Graduates can work as psychologists in hospitals, mental health centers, schools, judicial institutions, private counseling centers and non-governmental organizations. They can also take part in areas such as human resources, marketing and advertising with their expertise in behavioral analysis and human relations. Graduates who have the opportunity to specialize in sub-fields such as clinical, developmental, industrial-organizational, neuropsychology and forensic psychology can also work as lecturers or researchers at universities by pursuing an academic career with postgraduate education. CIU Psychology graduates have a versatile professional profile with wide career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

The measurement and evaluation methods applied for each course are defined in the "Syllabus" prepared by the relevant faculty member/s and included in the Information package. Regarding exams and course grades, relevant articles of Cyprus International University Associate Degree, Undergraduate Education and Examination Regulations are applied.
(https://sis.ciu.edu.tr/regulations-and-forms/regulations/211?ZhKoCbpKgH6FNZQJJA3CxT2giXRZNt2aJoWO)

The Structure of Observed Learning Outcomes (SOLO) Taxonomy is a widely used framework for systematically categorizing the progressive complexity of students' understanding of a subject. It serves as a tool for educators to assess cognitive development, design effective learning activities, and structure assessments that align with increasing levels of comprehension and critical thinking.
(Link: ECTS-SOLO …..)

Basic Fİeld Program Competency
Knowledge (Theory - T) T1. Possesses advanced knowledge of fundamental conceptual principles related to the field, considering their practical reflections.
T2. Comprehends basic concepts in Social and Behavioral Sciences and masters the relationships among these concepts.
T3. Has fundamental knowledge of the functioning principles of interpersonal and societal relationships.
T4. Possesses fundamental knowledge regarding the causes and consequences of societal transformations.
T5. Possesses knowledge in social sciences research and planning.
T6. Possesses theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to process advanced data and extract information.

Skills (Abilities - A) A1. Possesses the ability to analyze theoretical knowledge related to the field and evaluate its practical implications.
A2. Accesses original information sources in social and behavioral sciences using written and visual records.
A3. Processes information using technical means and presents it in reports utilizing required technical equipment (e.g., digital tools).
A4. Applies knowledge of the field to decision-making and behavior.
A5. Establishes interdisciplinary interpretations and analyses by linking the field with sub-disciplines and other social sciences.

Responsibilities Competence to Work Independently and Take Responsibility
(R) R1. Acts with awareness of the responsibilities undertaken.
R2. Solves problems related to the field both independently and collaboratively.
R3. Assumes responsibility individually and in teams to resolve practical issues; takes initiative when needed.
R4: Plans research processes and schedules for multi-member group studies; completes assigned tasks on time and as required.
R5: Acts in accordance with societal requirements and serves as a role model.
Learning Competence (L) L1. Critically evaluates acquired knowledge using cause–effect analysis.
L2: Knows how and what to learn.
L3. Identifies deficiencies in knowledge and practice in the field.
L4: Maintains sustained interest and motivation related to the field.
L5: Guides further education or professional development in the same or related fields.
L6: Possesses competence in knowledge sharing and collaborative learning.
L7: Has acquired lifelong learning and inquiry awareness.
Communication and Social Competence (C) C1. Communicates knowledge and skills related to the field in written and verbal forms.
C2. Applies data acquired during education in professional life.
C3. Reflects the value added by theoretical and conceptual knowledge to career advancement.
C4. Utilizes expert knowledge with societal responsibility.
C5: Transforms field-specific knowledge and applications into socially responsible projects and activities.
C6: Follows knowledge in the field and communicates with colleagues using a foreign language at least at the B2 level (Common European Framework).
C7: Uses computing and information technologies at a basic level as required by the field (e.g., ECDL Basic).
Field Specific Competence (P) P1: Acts in accordance with social, cultural, scientific, and ethical values in the process of generating, interpreting, and disseminating knowledge related to the field.
P2. Possesses sufficient awareness on universal social rights, social justice, quality, cultural values, environmental protection, occupational health and safety.
P3. Is open to change and innovation.
P4. Develops and interprets ideas related to social and behavioral phenomena using methods and knowledge from the field.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eliz Volkan

Sr. Inst. Hatice Ülsever