Psychology was initially known as a branch of philosophical sciences before becoming independent. The interest of prominent philosophers like Socrates, Aristotle, and Plato in studying the human psyche impacted the mixing of philosophy with studies of human behavior interpretation. They conducted numerous studies and research to understand the relationship between the body, emotion, perception, feelings, behavior, and the influencing factors.
Additionally, psychological concepts and studies during the Islamic civilization witnessed additions and developments by Muslim scholars such as Ibn Sina. Similarly, prominent European philosophers during the European Renaissance period, such as Descartes and John Locke, conducted various research linking the mind, soul, and behavior, laying down numerous psychological theories to interpret human behavior.
When did Psychology become an independent science?
The credit for the emergence of psychological sciences as an independent field goes to the German scientist Wilhelm Wundt, who established the first laboratory for psychological studies and developed theories for psychology as a science independent of philosophy and other human sciences. This paved the way for many scientists to specialize in this field, publishing numerous scientific research and valuable studies. Consequently, various schools and methodologies of psychological and behavioral studies emerged. European and American universities turned towards establishing independent departments for studying psychology, opening up multiple job opportunities for graduates in various institutions and healthcare centers.
Currently, studying psychology specialization at Turkish universities is four years. The language of instruction is English in some universities and Turkish in others. There is usually a preparatory year for language study before starting the specialization.
The specialization studies individuals’ and groups’ cognitive processes and behaviors. Research areas in human behaviors cover a wide range of topics, such as the relationship between the central nervous system and behavior, social interaction, cultural and personality aspects, and applying knowledge from psychological research in various work environments.
Curriculum for Psychology Programs
Below are the courses taught in the psychology program at one of the Turkish universities. For details of the study subjects for the Psychology major, visit the official university website where you intend to study.
First Academic Year
- Introduction to Psychology
- Positive Psychology and Communication Skills
- Introduction to Philosophy
- Anthropology
- History of Psychological Schools of Thought
Second Academic Year
- Research Methods and Behavioral Data Analysis
- Cognitive and Perceptual Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Theories and Concepts of Developmental-Behavioral Sciences
- Biological Foundations of Psychology
- Psychology of Learning
- Mental Health
- Brain and Behavior
- Applied Statistics
- Personality Theories
Third Academic Year
- Core Behavioral Issues and Research Methods in Professional, Clinical, and Assessment Issues
- Psychotherapeutic Methods
- Mental Disorders
- Clinical/Counseling Psychology
- Techniques and Basics of Psychotherapeutic Interviews
- Neuropsychology
Fourth Academic Year
- Measurement and Evaluation
- Experimental Methodology in Psychology
- Ethics of Psychological Studies
- Organizational Behavior and Studies in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Example: Click here to view the psychology curriculum at Istanbul Aydin University.
Job Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates can work in many institutions both inside and outside their countries, including:
- Mental health centers and clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Addiction treatment centers
- Family health centers
- Research laboratories
- Prisons
- Nursing homes
- Kindergartens
- Human resources departments in companies
- Advertising agencies
- Sports teams
Moreover, psychologists work in various ministries such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Family, and Ministry of the Interior. They also have the opportunity to conduct academic research and obtain a master’s degree and then a doctorate.
