The Graduate School of Health Sciences' graduates of 2026 received their diplomas

The 2026 master's and doctoral graduates of Istanbul Medipol University's Graduate School of Health Sciences received their diplomas at a ceremony held in the South Campus Conference Hall. Attended by Prof. Nesrin Emekli, Director of the Graduate School of Health Sciences, along with academics, students, and their families, the ceremony highlighted the contribution of graduate education to scientific research, research ethics, and graduates' responsibilities toward society. It was also announced that the Graduate School had produced a total of 2,140 graduates between 2012 and 2026.  
 

PROF. EMEKLİ: YOU HAVE ENHANCED YOUR PROFESSIONS THROUGH GRADUATE EDUCATION
Delivering the opening speech, Prof. Nesrin Emekli, Director of the Graduate School of Health Sciences, outlined the institution's activities since its establishment and the graduate education opportunities it offers.

Emekli stated that the Graduate School provides education through 77 programs, including 45 master's and 32 doctoral programs, and that the total number of graduates had reached 2,140 as of July 2026.

Explaining that graduate education is conducted in accordance with the Turkish Higher Education Qualifications Framework, Emekli recalled that the University received five-year institutional accreditation in 2024 and holds candidate research university status.

Highlighting the importance of scientific productivity in this process, she noted that students are encouraged to publish their research in high-impact journals classified in the Q1 category.

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES AND CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT WITH GRADUATES EMPHASIZED
Emekli stated that the University provides researchers with various opportunities through its research centers, national and international funding programs, and Scientific Research Projects (BAP). She encouraged graduates to register with the Career Center to maintain their connection with the University.

Recalling that Graduate Schools of Health Sciences were established in Türkiye in 1982, Emekli also highlighted the international academic achievements of Prof. Mutlu Özcan, one of her former students.

Addressing the graduates, Emekli said:

“Each of you already had a profession in healthcare, yet you chose the path of science to further develop yourselves. Even a brilliant jewel can resemble an ordinary stone if it is not properly cared for. I congratulate you on enhancing your professions through graduate education. We are proud of you.” 

KARACALI: A DOCTORATE IS A PROCESS THAT TRANSFORMS THE WAY WE THINK
Speaking on behalf of the doctoral graduates, Dr. Rabia Melda Karacalı, a graduate of the PhD Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, described doctoral education as a process that transforms one's way of thinking rather than merely leading to an academic title.

Karacalı noted that the challenges encountered during research are an integral part of doctoral education. She explained that pursuing a doctorate teaches patience, openness to criticism, the ability to cope with uncertainty, and the determination to persevere.

Emphasizing that people are at the heart of knowledge produced in the health sciences, Karacalı said:

“The doctoral degree we have earned is not merely a personal achievement; it is also a significant responsibility. Being a scientist means remaining committed to ethical principles, sharing what we have learned, and guiding future researchers.”

KARAR: THE VALUE OF KNOWLEDGE LIES IN ITS CONTRIBUTION TO HUMAN LIFE
Speaking on behalf of the master's graduates, Betül Karar, a graduate of the Master's Program in Nursing, stated that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter in which graduates will apply their expertise in academia, clinical practice, the private sector, and public institutions.

Karar explained that master's education teaches students not only to acquire knowledge but also to produce it, question existing assumptions, and develop evidence-based solutions. She emphasized that the true value of knowledge becomes apparent when it is translated into practice and contributes to people's lives. 

Referring to UNESCO data in her speech, Karar stated that 129 million girls worldwide are unable to exercise their right to education.

“We must regard the expertise we have gained not only as an asset for our personal careers but also as a responsibility toward every child who cannot access education.” she said.

Karar congratulated her fellow graduates and wished them success in their future scientific endeavors.

Following the speeches, academic supervisors and graduates were invited to the stage. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of graduation certificates to the graduates.