Hacettepe University

Hacettepe University Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Ankara Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Ankara, Hacettepe University is a cornerstone of Turkey’s academic, cultural, and scientific landscape. Since its establishment in 1967, the university has evolved from a pioneering institution in child health to one of Turkey’s most comprehensive and esteemed research universities, featuring over 150 undergraduate and 200 postgraduate programs (Hacettepe University Official Website).

For visitors, Hacettepe University offers far more than academic excellence. Its Sıhhiye and Beytepe campuses seamlessly blend historic significance, modern architecture, and lush woodlands. This guide is crafted to help prospective visitors—whether tourists, academic enthusiasts, or prospective students—navigate the university’s facilities, explore its monuments and museums, and discover nearby attractions in Ankara.

From practical details like visiting hours and accessibility, to insights about the university’s emblematic stag monument, and tips for exploring the Museum and Center for Biodiversity, this resource is your gateway to understanding why Hacettepe University is a must-see destination in Ankara (Wikipedia; Times Higher Education; Top Universities).

Mehmet Akif Ersoy museum house exterior view

Contents Overview

Introduction
Historical Overview
Origins and Founding Vision
Institutional Development and Expansion
Academic Structure and Significance
Role in Turkish Higher Education
Campuses and Symbolism
Visiting Hacettepe University: Practical Information
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
Transportation and Amenities
Guided Tours and Events
Nearby Cultural Attractions
Academic Rankings and Recognition
FAQs
Hacettepe University Monument: History, Hours, and Visitor Tips
Visiting Hacettepe University Campuses: Hours, Tours, and Highlights
Exploring the Hacettepe University Museum and Center for Biodiversity
Summary and Travel Tips
Sources and Official Links

Historical Overview

Origins and Founding Vision

Hacettepe University’s foundation lies in Turkey’s efforts to modernize its healthcare and educational systems. Beginning with the Chair of Child Health, founded within Ankara University’s Faculty of Medicine by Prof. Dr. İhsan Doğramacı in 1954 (crwflags.com), the university rapidly expanded through the creation of the Hacettepe Children’s Hospital and the Institute of Child Health by 1958 (studyabroad365.com). Prof. Doğramacı’s vision was to provide specialized training and innovative healthcare, laying the groundwork for a world-class institution (en.wikipedia.org).

Institutional Development and Expansion

The 1960s were pivotal for the university’s growth. The School of Health Sciences opened in 1961, and by 1963, the Faculty of Medicine and the School of Dentistry were established. The School of Basic Sciences followed in 1964, offering a broad educational scope. These institutions initially functioned as the “Hacettepe Science Center” under Ankara University (crwflags.com).

Hacettepe University became an independent institution in 1967, following Turkish Parliamentary Act No. 892. Further expansion brought new faculties, vocational schools, and research centers, notably the creation of the forested Beytepe Campus (en.wikipedia.org; edarabia.com; timeshighereducation.com).

Academic Structure and Significance

As of 2025, Hacettepe University comprises 16 faculties, 15 graduate schools and institutes, 4 vocational schools, 2 applied schools, a conservatory, and nearly 100 research and application centers (hacettepe.edu.tr). With approximately 50,000 students and 3,600 academic staff, the university is a leader in medical, health, and engineering education (timeshighereducation.com; topuniversities.com).

Role in Turkish Higher Education

Hacettepe University has set benchmarks for higher education in Turkey, fostering interdisciplinary research and societal engagement. Prof. Dr. İhsan Doğramacı played a key role in shaping national education policy and establishing Bilkent University, Turkey’s first private university (crwflags.com). Hacettepe’s influence remains central to Turkish academia, with a reputation for excellence and innovation (hacettepe.edu.tr).

Campuses and Symbolism

Hacettepe University’s two main campuses are:

Sıhhiye Campus: Located in Ankara’s city center, home to the Medical Centre and health-related faculties.
Beytepe Campus: Situated 13 km from the center, this expansive, wooded campus houses faculties for sciences, engineering, arts, and more.

Additional campuses exist in Beşevler, Polatlı, Sincan, and Keçiören (en.wikipedia.org; timeshighereducation.com).

The university emblem—a stylized stag—was designed in 1967 by Dr. Yücel Tanyeri and symbolizes both Hittite heritage and forward-thinking innovation (en.wikipedia.org).

Visiting Hacettepe University: Practical Information

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

Sıhhiye and Beytepe Campuses: Open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. Weekend schedules may vary—verify on the official website.
Entry Fees: No general admission fee; specialized facilities like museums may have separate schedules or require appointments.
Accessibility: Campuses are wheelchair accessible, equipped with ramps and elevators. Information points provide visitor support.

Transportation and Amenities

Public Transport: Sıhhiye Campus is accessible via Sıhhiye Metro station; Beytepe Campus via M2 metro and city buses.
Driving: On-site parking is available, but may be limited during peak hours.
Amenities: Cafeterias, coffee shops, bookstores, free Wi-Fi, and souvenir shops are available on both campuses.

Guided Tours and Events

Tours: Arrange guided campus tours through the university’s visitor services. Academic conferences and cultural events are frequently open to the public.
Photography: Scenic spots include Beytepe’s green spaces and the iconic stag monument.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

Anıtkabir: Mausoleum of Atatürk.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Renowned archaeological museum.
Kocatepe Mosque: One of Ankara’s largest mosques.

Academic Rankings and Recognition

Hacettepe University ranks among Turkey’s top institutions and is internationally recognized. In 2025, it placed #641–650 in QS World Rankings and led the University Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP) in Turkey (topuniversities.com; en.wikipedia.org). Its medical, health, and engineering programs are especially prestigious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Hacettepe University campuses?
A: Typically 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM weekdays; confirm on the official website.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, campus entry is free. Special exhibitions may charge separate fees.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, bookable via university visitor services.

Q: How accessible are the campuses?
A: Both are wheelchair accessible and have visitor support services.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, but space can be limited at busy times.

Hacettepe University Monument: History, Visiting Hours, and Travel Tips

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Hacettepe University Monument, located on the Sıhhiye Campus, celebrates the university’s founding and its enduring role in Turkish education. It embodies the motto “Forward to the Better,” with plaques and inscriptions detailing key milestones (Hacettepe University Monument Guide).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Open: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
Admission: Free
Guided Tours: Available weekends and public holidays—book via the official website or at the information desk.

How to Get There

Metro: Sıhhiye Station, 10-minute walk
Bus: Multiple lines serve the area
Car: On-campus parking available near the monument

Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable shoes for campus exploration.
Bring a camera for the monument and campus greenery.
Accessibility services are available—contact the university for arrangements.

FAQs

Q: Is visiting the monument free?
A: Yes.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, on weekends/holidays with advance booking.

Q: Is it open at night?
A: No, closes at 7:00 PM.

Q: Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with prior notification for assistance.

Visiting Hacettepe University Campuses: Hours, Tours, and Highlights

Campus Breakdown

Sıhhiye Campus: Central, medical and historical core
Beytepe Campus: Sprawling, modern, set in nature (Hacettepe University Official)

Visiting Hours and Tours

Open: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily; facility-specific hours may differ
Entry: Free
Guided Tours: Available by request through the Office of External Affairs (AdmissionSight)

Getting There

Metro/Bus: Sıhhiye (M1, M2 lines); Beytepe (M2 and buses)
Driving: Ample parking available

Campus Highlights

Sıhhiye: University hospitals, central library, proximity to Hamamönü
Beytepe: Diverse faculties, Hacettepe Teknokent, recreational facilities, libraries, and cultural centers

Visitor Services

Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly routes, ramps, elevators
Language Support: Information desks in Turkish/English
Health: 24/7 hospital at Beytepe
Accommodation: Guesthouses and nearby hotels

Practical Tips

Spring and autumn are ideal for visits
Photography is allowed in public areas
Book tours/overnight stays in advance

Exploring the Hacettepe University Museum and Center for Biodiversity

Overview

Situated on Beytepe Campus, the Museum and Center for Biodiversity highlights Turkey’s rich natural heritage and ongoing research in environmental sciences (BigSEE).

Visitor Information

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays/public holidays)
Admission: Free; guided tours available with booking
Location: Beytepe Campus, easily reached by public transport or taxi
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Unique Features

Interactive flora and fauna exhibits
Research labs open for educational visits
Landscape preservation projects

Visitor Tips

Wear comfortable shoes
Visit in spring/autumn for best experience
Allocate 2+ hours for your visit
Check ahead for workshops/events

FAQs

Q: Is it suitable for children?
A: Yes, interactive exhibits are family-friendly.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, except where flash is prohibited.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Yes, on campus.

Summary and Travel Tips

Hacettepe University is a unique destination where academic prestige meets historical and cultural richness. The Sıhhiye and Beytepe campuses are accessible, welcoming, and filled with opportunities for guided tours, independent exploration, and engagement with Ankara’s broader historical sites (crwflags.com; edarabia.com; Hacettepe University Monument Guide).

Combine your university visit with trips to Anıtkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and adjacent cultural districts for a holistic Ankara experience. Entry is free, accessibility is prioritized, and the campuses are ideal for both casual visitors and academic travelers.

For current visiting hours, events, and tours, consult the official website and consider using travel resources like Audiala for personalized, up-to-date guides.