Çağ University Increased Its Quality Assurance Maturity Level in 2025
Panorama of 2025
A. Leadership, Governance, and Quality Assurance System
A.1. Leadership and Institutional Governance
Throughout 2025, Çağ University conducted its leadership and governance processes based on a participatory, transparent, and accountable management approach. The transition process within senior management was carefully planned to preserve institutional memory and continuity; the transfer of the rectorship was carried out in an open manner for stakeholders and in line with institutional values. This process demonstrated that the leadership approach is grounded not in individuals, but in institutional systems.
The active establishment of the Student Council stands as a significant indicator of strengthened student participation in governance processes. Students are able to convey their opinions and suggestions regarding academic and administrative processes to relevant boards, and this feedback is utilized as an input within quality improvement cycles.
A.2. Quality Assurance System
The quality assurance system at the university operates within an integrated structure encompassing the strategic plan, action plans, performance indicators, and monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Education and training, research and development, social contribution, and governance are addressed as the core components of quality assurance.
The receipt of the EFQM 4-Star Excellence Award demonstrates that the institution’s quality management system is not only defined, but also that processes are measured, analyzed, and continuously improved. This achievement indicates that the university has reached a mature level of quality management, supported by externally validated assessments.
B. Education and Training
B.1. Program Design and Approval
Educational programs are designed by taking into account national qualifications (TQF), field-specific competencies, and stakeholder feedback. Throughout 2025, program and curriculum review meetings aimed to strengthen the alignment between program outcomes and learning outcomes.
During these meetings:
- course contents,
- assessment and evaluation methods,
- course–outcome matrices
were reviewed, and improvement decisions were taken.
The increase in the number of programs entitled to use the TQF logo is considered a concrete indicator of alignment with national qualifications.
B.2. Learning and Teaching Processes
In line with the student-centered learning approach, branded and certificate-based courses were introduced. These courses aim to enhance students’ professional competencies and strengthen their employability after graduation.
The organization of Training of Trainers programs twice during the year demonstrates the adoption of a systematic approach to developing the pedagogical competencies of academic staff. Through these programs, assessment methods, active learning strategies, and the use of digital pedagogical tools were supported.
B.3. Assessment and Evaluation
Assessment and evaluation processes are carried out in alignment with program learning outcomes. The professional exam simulations conducted within the Faculty of Law serve as a strong example of an application-oriented assessment approach.
Through these practices, students’:
- professional competencies,
- analytical thinking skills,
- examination performance
can be monitored in advance, allowing necessary improvement measures to be implemented.
C. Research and Development
C.1. Research Policy and Strategy
Çağ University addresses research and development activities in line with its strategic plan and establishes mechanisms that encourage research performance. Publication and project incentives serve as important tools for increasing academic productivity.
C.2. Research Resources and Performance
Student projects supported under TÜBİTAK 2209-A demonstrate that the research culture has expanded to undergraduate and associate degree levels. The support of projects from various faculties and programs reflects the adoption of an inclusive approach in research activities.
The results achieved in THE rankings indicate increased international visibility of the university in the fields of research and sustainability.
C.3. Research Centers and Specialization
The establishment of the Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Law Application and Research Center represents a tangible outcome of the university’s goal to specialize in specific thematic areas. Through this center, academic production, practical application, and social contribution are addressed in an integrated manner.
D. Social Contribution
Social contribution activities are planned and monitored in alignment with the university’s strategic objectives. Collaborations with local governments, open university practices, and activities targeting disadvantaged groups demonstrate the university’s community-integrated structure.
The Green Flag and Barrier-Free Badge awards received by the Office for Students with Disabilities highlight that accessibility-focused initiatives have yielded tangible institutional outcomes.
E. Internationalization
Internationalization constitutes a key component of Çağ University’s quality policies. Success in Erasmus+ KA171 projects demonstrates strengthened student and staff mobility. Memberships in UNIMED, TÜRKÜNİB, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Network have enhanced institutional-level international cooperation.
Students’ achievements in international competitions indicate that educational outcomes are globally competitive.
F. Sustainability and Environmental Management
The acquisition of the EN ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Certificate demonstrates that environmental sustainability is managed in a planned and documented manner. The smoke-free campus initiative and achievements in green campus rankings indicate that sustainability policies have been successfully integrated into campus life.
G. Overall Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
When the activities of 2025 are evaluated holistically, it is evident that Çağ University has established a systematic and sustainable quality assurance system aligned with YÖKAK criteria. Quality processes have not remained at the planning stage; they have been reinforced through implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement steps.
An Academic Journey Within a Year: Çağ University 2025