ITU is a state university which defines and continues to update methods of engineering and architecture in Turkey. It provides its students with modern educational facilities while retaining traditional values, as well as using its strong international contacts to mould young, talented individuals who can compete not only within their country borders but also in the global arena.ITU was established in 1773, during the time of the Ottoman Sultan Mustafa III. Under its original name "Muhendishane-i Bahr-i Humayun"​, The Royal School of Naval Engineering, its responsibility was to educate chart masters and ship builders. In 1795, the "Muhendishane-i Berr-i Humayun"​, The Royal School of Military Engineering, was established to educate technical staff in the army. In 1847, education in the field of architecture was also introduced. Established in 1883, the "Hendese-i Mülkiye", the School of Civil Engineering, assumed the name "Mühendis Mekteb-i Alisi", Engineering Academy, in 1909, with the aim of educating the staff for work on the country's infrastructure projects.Gaining university status in 1928, the "Yüksek Mühendis Mektebi", Engineering Academy, continued to provide education in the fields of engineering and architecture until it was incorporated into Istanbul Technical University, in 1944. Finally, in 1946, ITU became an autonomous university, including the Faculties of Civil Engineering, Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.