Overview of Ondokuz Mayıs University
Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), established in 1975, stands as a major public research university located in Samsun, on the northern coast of Turkey. Founded to commemorate the beginning of Turkey’s national struggle, the university is named after 19 May, a date of national significance. OMU has steadily grown to become one of the prominent higher education institutions in Turkey, currently hosting over 55,000 students across 19 faculties and over 30 research and application centers. With a commitment to both advanced research and high-quality teaching, OMU offers a comprehensive institutional environment on its main campus and additional affiliated campuses.
OMU's academic profile is distinguished by strengths in medicine, engineering, agriculture, veterinary sciences, and education. The Faculty of Medicine is particularly renowned and is a leading contributor to medical research nationally. OMU pioneers interdisciplinary approaches: its modular educational system enables flexibility and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The university consistently ranks among the top 25 Turkish universities in national assessments and collaborates with respected international partners through programs such as Erasmus+, Mevlana, and bilateral agreements. OMU's research activity is considerable, publishing over 2,000 scientific articles annually and contributing to projects backed by both the European Union and TUBITAK. It has also received recognition for its innovation, sustainability initiatives, and integration of entrepreneurship into academic programs.
The university’s vibrant student life features more than 200 clubs, a host of student societies, and regular cultural, scientific, and sporting events. OMU supports diversity and internationalization, welcoming students from over 90 countries and offering comprehensive language and adaptation programs. On-campus accommodation houses thousands of students, while state-of-the-art sports complexes, arts centers, and recreation areas promote holistic development. Student support is further enhanced by advisory services, career centers, and diverse cultural celebrations, fostering an inclusive and enriching campus community.
Guided by a mission to advance science, contribute to society, and shape responsible global citizens, Ondokuz Mayıs University upholds values of innovation, sustainability, and equity. OMU is dedicated to empowering its students and researchers for impactful contributions to both local and international communities.
