'Future Jobs' Session at Dokuz Eylül University; Guide for 2026 Candidates

'Science Cafe' Event and Focus on Modern Medicine Today, July 18, 2026, the July 15 Martyrs Hall at the Dokuz Eylül University (DEÜ) Rectorate Building hosted a special session titled 'Science Cafe: Future Jobs; Medicine Beyond Borders.' Organized by the University's Corporate Communications Coordination, the program began with an opening speech by the Rector, Professor Doctor Bayram Yılmaz [1]. During the session, prominent experts and successful graduates examined fundamental changes in the medical profession and the skills required for doctors in the coming decades.

Professor Doctor Mehmet Birhan Yılmaz, Vice Rector and Head of the Cardiology Department, along with young physicians such as Doctor Umut Boyraz and Doctor Ali Can Kurtul, shared their experiences regarding international career opportunities and modern career paths in the health sector [1]. The main goal of this session was to reduce the uncertainties of candidates on the eve of department selection and to provide a clear picture of the professional future in the digital world.

Guiding Candidates for the 2026 Selection Period This specialized session was held as Dokuz Eylül University prepares for its 'Promotion and Choice Days' on July 23 and 24, 2026 [2]. These events will be held in a hybrid format (in-person and online) so that candidates from across Turkey can learn about the university's academic capacities, internship facilities, and student exchange opportunities [2].

The Rector emphasized in his speech that choosing a major is not just an academic decision, but a strategic step toward entering a job market that is rapidly changing under the influence of new technologies. He noted that Dokuz Eylül University, by strengthening its infrastructure, seeks to train specialists who can compete not only in Turkey but also on a global level [1][3].

Transformation in Higher Education; From AI to Biotechnology The organization of this session at Dokuz Eylül University is aligned with the new policies of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK). According to recent reports, in the 2026 selection guide, 16 new undergraduate and associate degree programs focusing on artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and digital technologies have been introduced for the first time [4]. Programs such as 'History and Artificial Intelligence' or 'Philosophy and Artificial Intelligence' reflect a new interdisciplinary approach in the Turkish education system [3][4].

Recognizing this necessity, Dokuz Eylül University has also added new programs, including 'Medicine in English' and 'Aerospace Engineering,' to its list of departments to meet the needs of the labor market in 2026 and beyond [3].

International Outlook for DEÜ Graduates One of the main themes of today's discussion was the importance of internationalizing education. Speakers emphasized that future doctors must be familiar with digital health technologies, telemedicine, and artificial intelligence in disease diagnosis [1]. Furthermore, international internship opportunities and student exchange programs were introduced as key tools for success in 'Future Jobs.'

Candidates and families present at the ceremony had the opportunity to ask their questions directly to professors and senior students. This direct interaction is part of the university's strategy for informed academic guidance and preventing incorrect choices during the sensitive exam period [2].