University of Kyrenia

Origin and Development of the University of Kyrenia

The University of Kyrenia was established in 2013 in the beautiful coastal city of Kyrenia, renowned for its rich maritime history. The founding of the university was a natural extension of Near East University’s long-standing maritime studies expertise, which established Cyprus’s first Faculty of Maritime Studies in 1978. This distinguished academic heritage has provided a strong foundation for the University of Kyrenia to rapidly develop into a center of excellence in maritime and aviation education.

Vision and Mission of the University of Kyrenia

The vision of the University of Kyrenia is to become a pioneering and innovative institution both regionally and internationally in its fields of specialization, contributing effectively to the advancement of the maritime and aviation sectors through scientific research and applied education. Its mission is to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to become future leaders in their fields, instilling professional and ethical responsibility, and promoting a culture of safety and quality.

Why Choose the University of Kyrenia?

The University of Kyrenia offers a range of unique advantages making it an ideal destination for those interested in studying in Turkish Cyprus, especially in maritime and aviation disciplines:

• Specialized Excellence: The university is a leader in offering high-quality specialized programs in marine sciences, port management engineering, ship and machinery engineering, professional aviation, and aeronautical engineering.
• Intensive Practical Training: A strong focus on applied learning, with opportunities for students to train using state-of-the-art simulators, workshops, training vessels, and partner airports.
• International Accreditations: The university aims to obtain accreditation from prestigious international bodies in maritime and aviation, ensuring global recognition of its degrees.
• Expert Faculty: The faculty consists of industry leaders and experts in maritime and aviation sectors, delivering practical expertise and the latest knowledge to students.
• Strategic Location: Located in charming Kyrenia, the campus provides an ideal environment for maritime studies, with easy access to ports and airports.
• Advanced University Hospital: The university’s Dr. Suat Gunsel University Hospital provides high-quality healthcare services and serves as a training center for medical students.

Advantages over other universities

Kyrenia outperforms other regional universities with its unique focus on specialized fields like airport management and aircraft engineering, commonly featured at European universities with much higher costs. Aviation training here costs about half of what it does in the US, while maintaining equivalent quality using CAE’s Canadian simulators. Compared to Turkish universities, Kyrenia provides 100% English-language programs, making it an ideal choice for Arab students.

Main Faculties and Specializations at the University of Kyrenia

The University of Kyrenia focuses on several faculties and vocational schools that cater to its core disciplines, with programs taught primarily in English.

Key Faculties and Programs:

• Faculty of Maritime Studies:
  • Maritime Transportation Management Engineering
  • Ship and Marine Engineering
  • Marine Navigation (Deck Officer)
• Faculty of Aviation and Aerospace Sciences:
  • Professional Aviation (Pilot Training)
  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Aviation Management
• Faculty of Medicine
• Faculty of Dentistry
• Faculty of Pharmacy
• Faculty of Engineering:
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
• Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences:
  • Business Administration
  • Tourism and Hotel Management
  • Banking and Finance
• Faculty of Health Sciences:
  • Nursing
  • Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Law

Vocational Schools and Graduate Studies:

The university also offers diploma programs in various professional fields, as well as Master’s and PhD programs in selected areas, allowing students to further their academic and professional development.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

The University of Kyrenia serves as a gateway to the global job market. According to the 2024 statistics, 92% of aviation graduates secure jobs in airlines within 6 months of graduation, while 85% of maritime graduates work in international shipping and port companies.

The university also provides paid internships in partnership with institutions like Mersin Port, Turkey and Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, enabling students to build professional networks during their studies.

Campus and Facilities

The University of Kyrenia campus is picturesque and well-equipped, featuring:

• Modern classrooms and laboratories: Equipped with the latest educational technology and marine/aerial simulators.
• Specialized workshops: For ship engineering, aircraft engines, and more.
• Comprehensive library: Housing thousands of specialized books, references, and electronic databases.
• Dr. Suat Gunsel University Hospital: A full-fledged medical facility offering treatment, education, and research.
• Sports and recreation facilities: Including sports fields, fitness centers, and green spaces.
• Student housing: Comfortable and secure dormitories either on campus or nearby.

Tuition and Cost of Living

The tuition fees at the University of Kyrenia are relatively competitive among specialized Northern Cyprus universities. Undergraduate tuition for maritime and engineering fields starts at around USD 5,000 per year, and up to USD 10,000 for medical and professional pilot programs.

The university offers a flexible payment plan with termly or quarterly installments without additional fees.

Living expenses in Kyrenia are moderate, ranging from USD 300 to 450 per month, including housing in student complexes or nearby apartments. The university has agreements with local real estate agencies to offer rental discounts. With this flexible fee structure and affordable cost of living, the University of Kyrenia is an accessible and sustainable option for aspiring students.

Admission Requirements

The University of Kyrenia follows clear admission procedures for international students. General requirements for undergraduate programs typically include:

• High school diploma (or equivalent) recognized by the university.
• Academic transcripts.
• Proof of English proficiency such as TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs, or passing the university’s own English test.
• Copy of passport.
• Passport-sized photos.
• Some programs (e.g. professional aviation and medicine) may require medical exams or additional aptitude tests.

It is recommended to always check the official university website for the most current and detailed program-specific admission requirements. Contact us for any questions regarding application and requirements.

Campus Life at the University of Kyrenia

The University of Kyrenia offers a lively student environment, with clubs covering diverse interests such as watersports, aviation, culture, arts, and social activities. Regular events, workshops, and seminars enrich the student experience and broaden horizons. The city of Kyrenia also provides many recreational and cultural opportunities thanks to its beautiful beaches, historic harbor, and ancient castle.

International Student Support Services:

• Airport pickup at Ercan Airport in Northern Cyprus, with temporary accommodation provided.
• Free intensive Turkish language courses to help integrate into the community.
• Academic advisors to help students choose the right programs.
• Assistance with residence permits and visa renewals.
• Psychological counseling clinics and cultural adaptation programs to prevent feelings of alienation.

Is the University of Kyrenia internationally accredited?

The university is accredited by both the Higher Education Council of Northern Cyprus (YÖDAK) and Turkey (YÖK). It is also pursuing international accreditation from specialized bodies in aviation and maritime navigation. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) accredits its maritime programs, while the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) supports its aviation programs, ensuring its graduates are eligible for jobs in major global companies such as MSC and Turkish Airlines. Additionally, the university collaborates with European academic institutions for student and research exchange programs, including the University of Southampton in maritime engineering.

Graduate Success Stories

Ali, Aviation Graduate (2022)
“Training at the University of Kyrenia was exceptional, especially with instructors from Qatar Airways. Today I work as a First Officer at a private airline in Dubai.”

Lama, Marine Engineering Graduate (2021)
“I participated in designing a cargo ship for my graduation project, which was adopted by Danish company Maersk. The university gave me the confidence to innovate.”

Conclusion: Launch into New Horizons with the University of Kyrenia

The University of Kyrenia is an ideal destination for students passionate about maritime studies and aviation sciences, seeking high-quality applied education that prepares them for thriving global careers. With its specialized focus, advanced facilities, and commitment to excellence, Kyrenia opens the doors to future prospects in vital and dynamic sectors. If you are looking for an academic journey in Cyprus that combines rigorous challenge with practical opportunity, the University of Kyrenia awaits you.

Useful External Links:

• University of Kyrenia Official Website
• Higher Education Accreditation Authority – Northern Cyprus (YÖDAK)