Bahcesehir University (BAU) actively hosts a wide range of educational programs open to the general public, including, vocational training programs, and short-term professional development courses.
While the majority of vocational and development programs are coordinated through dedicated units such as the Bahceşehir University Continuous Education Center (BAUSEM) and BAUGO (Bahcesehir University Center for Distance Education Application and Research Center), BAU’s faculties and research centers also play an active role in designing and delivering specialized training programs, short-term courses, and certification courses. These efforts collectively expand the university’s outreach and reinforce its role as a hub for knowledge sharing and community learning.
The following sections highlight selected examples of ad-hoc and programmed open-access training initiatives implemented by BAUSEM, BAUGO, and various academic units during the 2023–2024 academic year, demonstrating Bahçeşehir University’s strong commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through inclusive, practical, and lifelong learning opportunities for all..
The Bahcesehir University Continuing Education Center (BAUSEM) serves as the primary vehicle through which Bahçeşehir University (BAU) delivers its lifelong learning mission to society. Established in 2004, BAUSEM provides a comprehensive portfolio of vocational training, executive education, and professional development programs designed to strengthen the skills and competencies of individuals and institutions in an ever-evolving global environment.
Through accessible, high-quality, and inclusive programs, BAUSEM supports lifelong learning by enabling participants to acquire new knowledge, develop practical abilities, and maintain professional competitiveness in their respective fields. Acting as a bridge between the university and the community, BAUSEM contributes to economic vitality and workforce enhancement by offering short- and long-term certificate programs, corporate training, individual skill development, and sector-focused conferences.
In keeping with Bahcesehir University’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and societal contribution, BAUSEM designs its programs around learner-centered principles, contemporary pedagogy, and the practical application of knowledge. Collaborating with academics, industry professionals, and public institutions, it ensures that each program is aligned with the current needs of the labor market and broader social priorities.
As a forward-thinking and innovative lifelong learning center, BAUSEM promotes equitable access to education by providing opportunities for individuals outside the university’s enrolled student body to benefit from BAU’s academic expertise.
In line with its mission to provide accessible and high-quality lifelong learning opportunities, BAUSEM offers a broad range of vocational training programs and short-term courses across diverse fields. These programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of professionals, students, and the wider community by combining academic expertise with practical application. Examples of current program offerings include:
The images below are taken from the BAUSEM website. Information regarding the relevant programs and registration procedures can be found on BAUSEM’s official webpage.
BAUGO is Bahcesehir University’s (BAU) online learning platform, designed to help individuals invest in their personal and professional growth through high-quality education delivered by academics with extensive industry experience. The platform enables learners to become “a better version of themselves” by providing flexible and accessible learning experiences.
All programs are open to the public and reflect BAU’s commitment to lifelong learning, inclusion, and continuous skill development. Participants may choose to attend comprehensive certificate programs or individual short-term courses that align with their personal and professional goals.
The programs are open to the public and reflect BAU’s commitment to lifelong learning, inclusion, and continuous skill development. Participants who complete these courses receive an official certificate of achievement, supporting their professional and academic growth.
Examples of certificate programs offered through BAUGO include:
Through these diverse, year-round programs, BAU, reinforces its role as a leader in lifelong learning, vocational education, and sustainable professional development, ensuring that individuals have continuous opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to a more skilled and equitable society.
The image below is taken from the BAUGO website and includes certificate programs for vocational training. Information regarding the relevant programs and registration procedures can be found on BAUGO’s official webpage.
In cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye, Bahcesehir University – Wissen Academy, and with the support of the Istanbul Development Agency (ISTKA), a comprehensive Software Talent Development Certificate Program was established under the Software Talent Training and Employment Center.
Launched in 2023, the program- fully free-of-charge- is scheduled to continue until the end of 2026, offering ongoing opportunities for young people to develop advanced software and digital skills, thereby contributing to sustainable employment and innovation in the technology sector.
The program is a 480-hour professional development initiative designed to train qualified young individuals for the software industry and meet the growing demand for skilled talent in this rapidly evolving sector. The program, implemented entirely free of charge within Bahçeşehir University, combines advanced technical training with career development components, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for the technology job market.
Following the completion of 480 hours of intensive instruction, participants are matched with employment opportunities in the software industry, facilitating a direct transition from training to professional practice.
The program welcomes candidates aged 18–35 who have been unemployed for at least one year or are recent graduates seeking to build careers in emerging technology fields. Over the course of four months, participants receive both technical and career-oriented education delivered by experienced instructors and industry professionals.
All participants who successfully complete the program are awarded a Professional Competency Certificate, validating their expertise and readiness to contribute to the software and technology ecosystem.
The images below show the poster and the application page screenshots of the Bahcesehir University Software Talent Development Vocational Certificate Program. Further information can be accessed through the program’s official website.
Bahcesehir University and Zorlu Performing Arts Center (PSM) have launched a new educational partnership to train stage technicians, the behind-the-scenes professionals who make theater, ballet, opera, dance, and music performances possible.
The “PSM Academy Stage Technician Program”, which began on 4 May 2024, is a 51-hour certificate training designed to equip participants with fundamental knowledge and practical skills in stage technologies, including sound, lighting, and video systems. Participants also receive instruction in occupational safety, basic electronics, and stage automation.
Led by a team of Bahcesehir University faculty members and industry experts, the program combines theoretical training and hands-on workshops held at Zorlu PSM. Upon successful completion of the program and evaluation process, participants receive certification qualifying them to work as Entry-Level Stage Technicians in live performance settings.
By fostering collaboration between academia and the performing arts industry, the program strengthens vocational training, creative industry development, and employment opportunities, supporting Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through inclusive and skill-oriented education.
The image below shows the poster Bahcesehir University PSM Academy Stage Technician Program. Further information can be accessed through the program’s official website.
Bahcesehir University (BAU), in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul, affiliated with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and in partnership with Yapı Kredi Bank, continues to advance its mission of promoting equality and innovation through the “Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program.” This initiative is designed to increase women’s participation in the fields of technology and innovation, contributing to the creation of a more inclusive and diverse digital future.
The certification program provides free, high-quality training delivered by Bahcesehir University’s distinguished academic staff. Participants engage in comprehensive learning modules covering Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Technologies, Cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Industry 5.0. These training contents are developed with a focus on practical applicability and global standards, ensuring participants gain both theoretical knowledge and industry-relevant competencies.
In 2024, the program expanded its scope to reach a broader audience. It is now open to all women aged 15 and above, with no upper age limit, allowing greater inclusivity and ensuring that women of all ages can benefit from technological education and empowerment opportunities.
Participants who successfully complete the certification program and achieve a minimum score of 70 in the final evaluation will receive an E-Government Approved Certificate of Achievement, jointly accredited by UNITAR and Bahçeşehir University. Those who complete at least 75% of the coursework will be awarded a UNITAR-accredited Certificate of Participation.
The Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program is entirely free of charge and open to all women who wish to develop their skills and advance their careers in technology. Moreover, individuals of any gender residing in the “Hope Cities” established by Koç Holding after the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes are also eligible to participate, reflecting Bahçeşehir University’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility, inclusivity, and equal access to education.
Launched in 2023, the program has already achieved remarkable impact: by the end of 2024, a total of 22,450 women have successfully completed the training and received certificates. The certification program will continue until the end of 2026, aiming to reach and empower even more women across Türkiye and beyond through education, innovation, and equal opportunity.
The images below show the poster and curriculum Bahcesehir University The Equal Opportunity in Technology Certification Program Further information can be accessed through the program’s official website
Bahcesehir University (BAU) Bridge ProgramsThe BAU Bridge Certificate Programs are free of charge and open to all interested participants, reflecting Bahçeşehir University’s commitment to inclusive education and its contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
By providing accessible, high-quality learning experiences, the programs support both students and external participants in developing essential competencies for academic, professional, and personal growth, while also promoting equal opportunities in education.
The 2024 term featured six distinct certificate programs, each designed and delivered in collaboration with BAU’s departments, research centers, and partner institutions. These programs combine academic rigor with applied learning to equip participants with future-oriented competencies.
Each program provides a certificate upon successful completion and serves as a platform for both students and external participants to develop skills relevant to today’s rapidly changing social and economic landscape.
By bridging academia, industry, and society, the BAU Bridge Certificate Programs reflect Bahçeşehir University’s commitment to lifelong learning, innovation, and equal opportunity in education.
The images below show the poster and curriculum Bahcesehir University (BAU) Bridge Programs
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