Frequently Asked Questions
Clinical psychology deals with both normal and abnormal human behavior. It primarily focuses on researching human behavior and applying scientific findings to real-world practice. One of its key aspects is assessment and evaluation, where clinical psychologists collect data using various methods to make informed decisions. They generally help individuals or groups dealing with psychological distress, mental health issues, and stress.
Although clinical psychology overlaps with other psychology fields, what distinguishes it is its specific clinical attitudes and approaches. Clinical psychologists are not only concerned with understanding the nature of behavior but also with developing the skills to apply their knowledge in practical settings. Research and assessment methods are essential in defining and diagnosing normal and abnormal behaviors.
To become a clinical psychologist, one must obtain at least a master’s degree in clinical psychology. Graduate programs in this field are offered by university psychology departments and include coursework in:
- Advanced psychopathology
- Various psychotherapy techniques
- Research methods
- Diagnosis and assessment
- Supervised training courses to apply learned skills
Additionally, clinical internships and scientific research projects, theses, or studies are an essential part of these programs.
Students who successfully complete this program earn a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology (Turkish, Thesis/Non-Thesis).
The number of clinical psychologists in Turkey is below the required level. Based on their specialization, clinical psychologists can work with both children and adults. They are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional, cognitive, and behavioral disorders, as well as mild to moderate mental health conditions. In cases of severe personality disorders and psychotic conditions, clinical psychologists may work alongside psychiatrists under suitable conditions.
Clinical psychologists can work in:
- Academic and research settings
- Public or private hospitals (mental health units)
- Psychotherapy or psychological counseling centers
- Rehabilitation centers and special education institutions
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) providing clinical services
- Organizations conducting clinical research
- Workplaces that employ clinical psychologists
- Primary, secondary, and higher education institutions
- Nursing homes
- Legal and forensic settings (family courts, probation offices, correctional facilities)
- Public health centers
The admission process consists of three stages
- Application file evaluation
- Scientific exam (determined for each application period)
- Interview
The weight of these three stages in the admission process is determined by the Clinical Psychology Program Coordination Office and the Graduate Education Institute. Only applicants who submit a complete application file are eligible for the scientific exam, and only those who pass the exam qualify for the interview stage.
Yes. Work, internship, or volunteer experience in fields directly or indirectly related to clinical psychology —especially those conducted in line with ethical principles—can strengthen an applicant’s admission prospects.
No special preparation is required. The interview is conducted in a clinical interview style to evaluate the candidate’s suitability for becoming a clinician. However, the interview may also include knowledge-based questions similar to those in the scientific exam.
Yes, but if you are admitted, you must submit your transcript by the final registration date.
No, photocopies of these documents are sufficient for the application process, but original copies will be required during final registration.
The application period is announced approximately one month in advance each year. Candidates can follow updates on:
- The university website
- The Clinical Psychology Program Coordination Office
- The Graduate Education Institute
Final application deadlines are published on the university website.
No. This program only accepts students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in:
- Psychology
- Guidance and Psychological Counseling
- Medical School (M.D.)
Yes, there is no limit to the number of times you can apply. However, each application follows the same standard procedures.
Attendance is mandatory for at least 70% of classes, meaning it may be possible to work while studying. However, students are expected to prioritize the program. Candidates should consider the class schedules when planning their work commitments. Due to the structure of the program, students should be available for full-day coursework on multiple days per week.
Each year, a scholarship quota is determined. Admission decisions are based on merit, regardless of financial need. Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance.
Both thesis-based and non-thesis (project-based) master’s programs are offered. Upon admission, students are assigned to either the thesis or non-thesis track based on their ranking in the admission process.
After completing the first year, students in the non-thesis program may apply to switch to the thesis track, depending on program quotas and selection criteria.
Key differences:
- Coursework: Theoretical and practical courses are similar in both programs.
- Duration:
o Thesis-based program: 4 semesters
o Non-thesis program: 3 semesters - Final requirement:
o Thesis-based program: Requires a comprehensive research thesis
o Non-thesis program: Requires a master’s project (which is typically shorter and less research-intensive than a thesis)
Internships are completed at:
- Işık University Psychological Counseling Center (PDB)
- Supervised psychotherapy centers
- Psychiatry departments in hospitals
For the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 academic years, internships were conducted at Moodist Psychiatry Hospital.
Additionally, students begin case tracking in the third semester as part of their clinical supervision training. Each intern receives ongoing supervision from the program faculty throughout the internship year.
If you have any unanswered questions after reviewing the information on the university website, you can contact the Clinical Psychology Program Coordination Office via email: