Balıkesir University

History and Vision of the University

Balıkesir University was established in Balıkesir on July 11, 1992, under Law No. 3837. Its roots trace back to 1910 with the foundation of Karesi Teacher Training School. In 1932, this institution moved into the building of today’s Necatibey Faculty of Education. In 1982, it became affiliated with Uludağ University under the name Necatibey Faculty of Education. That same year, Balıkesir State Engineering and Architecture Academy and the School of Business and Tourism were also incorporated into Uludağ University. In 1992, Balıkesir University gained independent status as a legal entity. The university began under the leadership of its first rector, Prof. Dr. Ramazan Özkaya, and is currently led by Prof. Dr. Yücel Acer (since 2023). The university follows the vision of being “contemporary in education, science, and art,” with a mission to support regional development. With approximately 35,000 students (YÖK Atlas, 2022–2023), the university is ranked in the 801–1000 band by Times Higher Education 2025.

Education

Balıkesir University offers a broad academic spectrum through 13 faculties: Medicine, Engineering, Science and Literature, Economics and Administrative Sciences, Education, Theology, Fine Arts, Sports Sciences, Health Sciences, Dentistry, Tourism, Architecture, and Veterinary Medicine. In addition, it has 3 graduate institutes (Science, Social Sciences, Health Sciences), 3 schools, and 12 vocational schools. There are over 200 undergraduate and associate programs, and more than 100 graduate programs. Medicine and Engineering stand out with instruction in English. With nearly 1,500 academic staff, the university offers both theoretical and applied education. Over 100 laboratories and 25 research centers support scientific work. For more details, visit the official website of Balıkesir University.

Campus and Technological Infrastructure

The main campus of Balıkesir University is the Çağış Campus, located 17 kilometers from the city center along the Bigadiç road, covering 1,500 acres. Necatibey Faculty of Education is located downtown, and there are additional campuses in districts like Altınoluk and Ayvalık. With 400,000 m² of indoor space, the campuses are equipped with high-speed internet and smart classrooms. The library offers access to 200,000 printed sources and over one million digital publications, and has a seating capacity of 1,500. The Faculty of Medicine is integrated with the Training and Research Hospital. The university’s Technopark and Design Center strengthen industry collaboration. The campus provides a modern, technology-rich learning environment.

Dormitories

Balıkesir University does not operate its own dormitories on campus but offers accommodation in collaboration with KYK (Credit and Dormitories Institution). The Çağış Campus area has over 7,000 beds available. Rooms accommodate 2–6 students and include a bed, wardrobe, desk, and internet access. Facilities include laundry rooms, kitchens, and study areas. Security is ensured with 24/7 surveillance, and cleaning is done regularly. Applications are made through the KYK system, with priority given to scholarship students. Private dormitories and rental apartments also serve as alternatives.

Social Life

Balıkesir University offers a dynamic social environment. The green spaces, sports facilities, and modern setting of the Çağış Campus are noteworthy. Sports areas include basketball, volleyball, and football fields, and student teams participate in tournaments. Dining halls offer daily meals, and various cafés are available on campus. With over 50 student clubs (e.g., music, technology), the university organizes festivals and the annual “Spring Festival.” Balıkesir’s location between the Aegean and Marmara seas enriches student life. Cultural events are held for international students.

International students looking to learn more about university life in Turkey can visit the Road to Study platform.

Cultural Integration for International Students

Balıkesir University hosts nearly 1,000 international students from over 40 countries. The International Relations Office provides visa support and orientation services. Turkish language courses are offered by TOMER, and most programs are available in English. The university collaborates with over 150 institutions through Erasmus+, Mevlana, and Farabi programs. “International Day” events promote cultural exchange. The hospitality of the local community helps international students adapt more easily.

Health Services and Security

In partnership with its Training and Research Hospital, Balıkesir University offers healthcare services with a capacity of 500 beds. The on-campus Health Center provides emergency services, supported by 24/7 ambulance availability. The Psychological Counseling Unit offers individual therapy sessions. The campus is monitored 24/7 with security personnel and surveillance systems.

Transportation

The Çağış Campus of Balıkesir University is located 17 kilometers from the city center. Municipal buses, shared taxis (dolmuş), and university shuttle services operate regularly from 07:00 to 23:00. The campus is 180 kilometers from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport and 10 kilometers from the main bus terminal. Public transport offers student discounts.

Student Support Services

Balıkesir University provides internships and career opportunities through its Career Center and organizes “Career Days.” Academic advisors provide ongoing guidance. The Psychological Support Unit offers free therapy services. The Disability Support Unit coordinates accessibility arrangements. The Scholarship Office manages financial aid and scholarship opportunities.