The fundamental philosophy of Third Age Universities—defined as lifelong learning and lifelong productivity—first came to life in France in 1973. However, this model is widely known in the literature as the “British model.” The version of this model that gained prominence in academic literature was established in Cambridge in 1981.
In Turkey, Third Age Universities emerged as part of the Gerontology (GeroAtlas) Project, which has been carried out since the 2000s as a social responsibility initiative. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. İsmail Tufan, the first Third Age University in Turkey was launched in 2016 within Akdeniz University. This project aims to transform public perception of the growing elderly population in Turkey and to create a unique, locally adapted model of a university for older adults. With increasing life expectancy both globally and nationally, the elderly population is steadily growing. The GeroAtlas research was initiated to identify the necessary steps for increasing the number of people who age successfully and healthily. The founding philosophy of the Third Age University in Turkey is based on the insights and experiences gathered through this research.
The initiative that began at Akdeniz University quickly expanded to other universities, including Nişantaşı, Alanya Hamdullah Emin Paşa, Aydın Adnan Menderes, and Ege Universities. As expressed by Hatice Aktaş, a student at Adnan Menderes Third Age University who is nearly 100 years old, it has become “a school for hearts that never grow old.” Akdeniz University welcomed 350 students during its first enrollment period in 2016, and due to the widespread interest it received across Turkey, the model rapidly spread. Currently, around 10 universities in Turkey offer Third Age education. As of the 2024–2025 academic year, Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University has proudly become one of the first 10 universities to launch its own Third Age University.
At all campuses, host universities open their doors as part of their social responsibility missions, and faculty members voluntarily offer their time and expertise to teach in the program.
On the campuses of Third Age Universities, theoretical courses enable lifelong learning, while applied courses help students discover and develop their talents. One of the primary goals is to bring together younger students and senior learners in shared spaces so that intergenerational knowledge and experience exchange can take place. All instructors and participants engage in the program on a voluntary basis. The curriculum is broadly structured to support active and positive aging through various classes and activities.
The overarching goal of Third Age Universities is to support individuals in the aging process—especially in the context of increasing life expectancy and an aging population brought about by medical and technological advances—by promoting healthy aging and social participation. These universities offer education in diverse fields such as history, arts, religious culture, health, nutrition, physiotherapy, sports, and general culture. Additionally, group activities such as trips, communal meals, nature walks, and artistic events help students take a more active role in society and participate meaningfully in social life.
Individuals over the age of 60 can enroll in Third Age University programs. Each academic year is divided into Fall and Spring semesters, and the total duration of study is four years. No tuition fees are charged. Students receive courses in subjects like health, history, religion, arts, and nutrition, with the overarching aim of supporting older adults to experience aging as more active, fulfilling, and healthy. All courses are taught by volunteer faculty members from the host universities. Upon completion, graduates receive a Certificate of Participation. There are no grades or competitive evaluations—only a shared commitment to learning. The program is specifically designed to meet the needs and interests of the 60+ age group, encouraging them not only to continue learning but also to remain independent, engaged, and valuable members of society.
As the founding pioneer of Third Age Universities in Turkey, Prof. Dr. İsmail Tufan emphasizes that, just like every other phase of life, old age can only be meaningfully structured through knowledge and productivity. Research shows that healthy, active, and successful aging is significantly more likely when it is supported by learning and creativity. Within this framework, Third Age Universities offer students the opportunity to age with knowledge.
In alignment with these goals and benefits, Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University Third Age Campus warmly invites all residents aged 60 and over to embark on the journey of aging with knowledge.