YÖK to open 16 new programs in 2026-2027: Artificial intelligence and social sciences unite

Yükseköğretim Kurulu (YÖK) Başkanı Erol Özvar announced in a statement on his social media account that a total of 16 new programs, 7 undergraduate and 9 associate degree, are being introduced to higher education for the first time in the 2026-2027 academic year. Özvar stated that these programs cover a wide spectrum, from visionary departments that bring artificial intelligence together with social sciences to strategic production areas. In the statement, it was emphasized that higher education programs are being resolutely transformed to equip young people in the most prepared way for the world of the future.

YÖK Başkanı Özvar stated in his announcement that they are developing the higher education system by taking into account not only today's but also the future workforce needs. He said that instead of insisting on outdated programs that do not generate employment, they are preparing the country's human capital for the future with an academic structure focused on high technology, digital transformation, and strategic production. Özvar concluded his words by saying, "May it be beneficial for our youth, who are our future."

The undergraduate programs to be opened for the first time this year include Tarih ve Yapay Zeka, Felsefe ve Yapay Zeka, İşletme ve Yapay Zeka, Finansal Teknoloji, Biyoteknoloji ve Genetik, Paramedik and Balıkçılık Teknolojisi. The associate degree programs are listed as Yapay Zeka Destekli Web Tasarımı ve Kodlama, Yapay Zeka Destekli Tasarım ve Animasyon, Hayvancılık Teknolojileri ve İşletmeciliği, Mobil Güvenlik Teknolojileri, Dijital Oyun Teknolojileri, İlaç Üretim Teknolojisi, Laboratuvar Hayvanları, Balıkçılık Teknolojisi and Patlayıcı ve Enerjetik Malzemeler Teknikerliği.

The new programs offer an interdisciplinary approach by combining developments in the field of artificial intelligence with social sciences. Departments such as Tarih ve Yapay Zeka and Felsefe ve Yapay Zeka aim to provide students with competencies in both classical scientific fields and modern technologies. Additionally, fields like Finansal Teknoloji and Biyoteknoloji aim to train a qualified workforce in strategic sectors.

This move by YÖK is considered an important step in the transformation of higher education in Turkey. The increase in artificial intelligence-oriented programs, in particular, is seen as compatible with the country's digital transformation goals. Experts state that graduates of these programs will have high employment opportunities in the future and will contribute to Turkey's technological competitiveness.