A. About the Department
1. What is the Department of Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University?
The Department of Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University is one of Türkiye’s well-established and leading teacher education programs in early childhood education. The program is offered within the Department of Primary Education in the Faculty of Education. The language of instruction is Turkish, and the program lasts four years. As part of the European Higher Education Area, the curriculum is designed in accordance with the principles of the Bologna Process and the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). Through an educational approach that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the program prepares students for both professional practice and academic careers in the field of early childhood education.
The program aims to educate highly qualified early childhood teachers who are grounded in the scientific foundations of child development and learning, committed to ethical values and children's rights, and equipped with the ability to conduct inquiry, think critically, and embrace lifelong learning.
In addition, the program fosters a strong research culture by encouraging students to engage in scientific research and project development. It provides opportunities to participate in national and international research projects and offers a solid academic foundation for students who aspire to pursue graduate studies and academic careers in early childhood education.
2. What is the aim of the department?
The primary aim of the Department of Early Childhood Education is to prepare highly qualified early childhood teachers who understand the developmental and learning characteristics of early childhood, are able to integrate scientific knowledge and evidence-based practices into educational settings, respect children's rights, adhere to ethical principles, engage in inquiry and critical thinking, communicate effectively, and embrace lifelong learning.
The Department also aims to support students in developing competencies in research, project development, and community engagement. Furthermore, it seeks to contribute to the preparation of future academics, researchers, and other education professionals in the field of early childhood education.
3. Is the program accredited?
Yes. The Bachelor’s Program in Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University was accredited by the Association for Evaluation and Accreditation of Teacher Education Programs (EPDAD) on March 28, 2019. Following subsequent evaluations, the program's accreditation was extended until May 1, 2027, and an application for reaccreditation has been submitted as part of the ongoing accreditation process.
The Department of Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University is one of the first early childhood education departments in Türkiye to receive EPDAD accreditation. The program is regularly evaluated according to EPDAD's standards in areas such as the quality of teaching and learning, academic staff, practicum opportunities, and quality assurance systems. The accreditation process serves as a dynamic quality assurance mechanism that supports the program's continuous improvement and ongoing development.
4. What academic programs are offered by the department?
In addition to its undergraduate program, the department offers graduate-level education.
The programs currently offered include:
Bachelor's Program in Early Childhood Education
Master's Program with Thesis
Non-Thesis Master's Program
Doctoral (Ph.D.) Program
The department also offers opportunities for undergraduate students to pursue a Double Major Program and a Minor Program.
5. Why choose the Early Childhood Education Program at Hacettepe University?
The Bachelor’s Program in Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University is one of Türkiye’s longest-established and leading early childhood teacher education programs. It stands out for its distinguished academic staff, research-oriented educational approach, and strong emphasis on practice-based learning. In addition to being one of the first early childhood education programs in Türkiye to receive EPDAD accreditation, the program maintains a strong commitment to quality assurance and continuous improvement in teaching and learning.
Throughout the program, students receive both theoretical and practical training across various areas of early childhood education. They gain hands-on teaching experience in preschool institutions affiliated with the Turkish Ministry of National Education, participate in national and international research projects alongside faculty members, and, under the guidance of their academic advisors, have opportunities to develop research proposals for competitive funding programs such as the TÜBİTAK 2209-A University Students Research Projects Support Program.
In addition, students can benefit from Erasmus+ exchange opportunities, Double Major and Minor programs, and continue their education through graduate studies to pursue academic careers. The program is founded on the principles of scientific inquiry, ethical values, children's rights, inclusive education, social responsibility, and lifelong learning.
Through these distinctive features, the Hacettepe University Bachelor’s Program in Early Childhood Education provides students with not only a high-quality undergraduate education but also prepares them to become reflective, research-oriented, project-driven early childhood educators and education professionals who are well equipped to compete and contribute at both the national and international levels.
6. Are there student societies and extracurricular activities in the department?
Yes. Eğitime İlk Adım Topluluğu/The First Step in Education Society, which operates within the Department of Early Childhood Education, organizes a variety of activities aimed at supporting students' academic, social, and professional development. These activities include seminars, conferences, workshops, community engagement projects, and professional development events.
In addition, students are encouraged to participate in the wide range of student organizations at Hacettepe University according to their interests. These organizations offer opportunities to engage in social, cultural, artistic, and sports-related activities, contributing to a well-rounded university experience.
B. Teaching and Learning Process
7. What subject areas are included in the undergraduate curriculum?
The Undergraduate Program in Early Childhood Education is designed as a comprehensive curriculum that aims to develop prospective teachers' professional knowledge, subject matter expertise, and general competencies. Courses are organized into three main categories:
Professional Knowledge Courses: Designed to develop the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills required for the teaching profession.
Subject Matter Courses: Cover the knowledge and practices specific to the field of early childhood education.
General Education Courses: Support prospective teachers' social, cultural, and intellectual development.
This structure ensures that students receive comprehensive preparation in both the teaching profession and the field of early childhood education.
8. Where can I access course descriptions and ECTS information?
Information on all required and elective courses—including course descriptions, ECTS credits, learning outcomes, program competencies, assessment methods, and graduation requirements—is available through the Hacettepe University ECTS Information Package: https://akts.hacettepe.edu.tr/
Current course schedules, examination timetables announced within the academic calendar, and other academic announcements are published in the Announcements section of the department's website: https://okuloncesi.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/duyurular
9. Does the program include teaching practicum courses?
Yes. The program includes practicum components designed to help teacher candidates develop their professional knowledge and teaching skills in authentic educational settings. Throughout their studies, students have opportunities to become familiar with early childhood education environments, observe children and teaching practices, connect theoretical knowledge with classroom practice, and gain practical experience in the teaching profession. These practicum experiences are carefully designed to support the development of teacher candidates' professional competencies.
10. Where are the teaching practicum placements conducted?
Teaching practicum experiences are conducted in collaboration between the Turkish Ministry of National Education and universities. They take place in preschool institutions affiliated with the Ministry that are committed to supporting the professional development of teacher candidates and are open to university–school collaboration. Practicum schools are selected in accordance with the academic year's planning, and students gain teaching experience under the guidance of university supervisors and cooperating teachers, providing them with opportunities to apply their theoretical knowledge in authentic classroom settings.
11. How are elective courses determined?
The program offers elective courses designed to support students' academic development and individual interests.
During each course registration period, students may select from the elective courses offered in accordance with the relevant university regulations. The list of available elective courses and enrollment quotas is announced each semester.
12. Where can I find course schedules and examination timetables?
Course schedules, midterm and final examination timetables, make-up examination schedules, and other academic announcements for both undergraduate and graduate programs are regularly published in the Announcements section of the department's website:
https://okuloncesi.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/duyurular
13. What should I do if my courses have a scheduling conflict?
Students cannot register for courses with overlapping class times during the same semester.
If a scheduling conflict occurs, you are advised to prioritize your must courses. To explore alternative elective courses and develop an appropriate study plan, you should consult your academic advisor.
Following your advisor's guidance during course registration, add/drop periods, and other academic processes will help prevent potential scheduling and registration issues.
14. Can I repeat a course?
Yes. According to the Hacettepe University Associate and Undergraduate Education and Examination Regulations:
Required courses that a student fails must be retaken the first time they are offered.
Elective courses that a student fails may either be retaken or, subject to the conditions specified in the regulations, replaced with another elective course.
Students who wish to improve their Grade Point Average (GPA) may repeat courses they have previously passed, except for courses in which they received grades of A1 or A2. In such cases, the most recent grade replaces the previous one.
For detailed information, students are advised to consult the relevant provisions of the Hacettepe University Associate and Undergraduate Education and Examination Regulations.
15. Can I take courses at other universities?
Yes. Under the Hacettepe University Associate and Undergraduate Education and Examination Regulations, students may take courses at other universities, provided that the specified conditions are met.
Before the beginning of the semester, students must submit a request to their department for course equivalency approval. The relevant academic committee evaluates the proposed course, and if approved, the appropriate administrative board records it on the student's transcript.
Grades earned from courses taken at other universities are converted to the Hacettepe University grading system in accordance with the procedures specified in the regulations.
For detailed information, students are encouraged to consult the relevant provisions of the Hacettepe University Associate and Undergraduate Education and Examination Regulations. Students are also advised to contact their academic advisor or the Office of Student Affairs for guidance on this process.
C. Student Exchange Programs and Academic Opportunities
16. Can I participate in the Erasmus+ Student Exchange Program?
Yes. Students enrolled in the Department of Early Childhood Education at Hacettepe University may apply for the Erasmus+ Student Exchange Program, provided they meet the required academic achievement and foreign language proficiency criteria.
Erasmus+ is a European Union education and training program designed to enhance the quality of higher education across Europe. Through the program, students have the opportunity to study at partner universities for a specified period, experience different educational systems, improve their foreign language skills, and gain valuable international academic experience.
Application dates, eligibility requirements, and evaluation procedures are announced each academic year by the Hacettepe University Office of International Relations. Detailed information about the Erasmus+ Exchange Program is available at: //www.abofisi.hacettepe.edu.tr/basvuru_ogrhrk.shtml
17. Which universities have Erasmus+ agreements with the Department of Early Childhood Education?
The Department of Early Childhood Education has Erasmus+ bilateral agreements with several higher education institutions across Europe.
The current list of partner universities includes:
Country Partner University
Belgium Arteveldehogeschool
Germany Evangelische Fachhochschule Freiburg
Greece University of the Aegean
Greece University of Patras
Hungary University of West Hungary
The Netherlands Hogeschool Utrecht
As bilateral agreements may change over time, students are advised to consult the most up-to-date list published by the Hacettepe University Office of International Relations before submitting an application.
18. Can I participate in the Farabi and Mevlana Student Exchange Programs?
Yes. When these programs are active, students who meet the relevant eligibility requirements and regulations may also participate in the Farabi and Mevlana Student Exchange Programs.
Application procedures, available quotas, and implementation guidelines are announced by the relevant coordinating offices. For the most current information, students are encouraged to follow the official announcements published by Hacettepe University: https://farabi.hacettepe.edu.tr/
19. What is the Double Major Program (ÇAP)?
The Double Major Program (ÇAP) allows students enrolled at Hacettepe University to pursue a second bachelor's degree simultaneously, provided they meet the required academic qualifications.
Students who successfully fulfill the graduation requirements of both programs are awarded two separate bachelor's degrees.
In addition to supporting students' academic development, the Double Major Program promotes interdisciplinary knowledge and skills.
20. Which programs can Early Childhood Education students pursue as a double major?
The availability of double major opportunities for Early Childhood Education students depends on whether other departments offer quotas for students from the Early Childhood Education Program.
According to the current list, the Faculty of Education has double major partnerships with programs such as: Computer Education and Instructional Technology, Primary School Education, and Turkish Language Education
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students should consult the current list of programs and available quotas published by the Office of Student Affairs: https://oidb.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/capyandal-21
In addition, the current list published by the Office of Student Affairs indicates that students enrolled in German Language Education, Computer Education and Instructional Technology, English Language Education, Primary School Education, and Turkish Language Education may pursue a double major in Early Childhood Education. Since these partnerships may be one-way or reciprocal and are subject to revision, applicants should always verify the current information before applying.
21. When and under what conditions can I apply for a Double Major Program?
For four-year undergraduate programs, students may apply no earlier than the beginning of the third semester and no later than the beginning of the fifth semester.
Applicants must: Have successfully completed all courses in their primary program up to the semester of application; Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 out of 4.00; and Rank within the top 20% of their cohort. Students who are not in the top 20% but have a minimum GPA of 2.75 may still apply if their national university entrance examination score is equal to or higher than the minimum admission score required for the double major program in the year they entered university.
Detailed information is available in the application guide published by the Office of Student Affairs: https://oidb.hacettepe.edu.tr/tr/menu/%3Cimg_src=httpfshacettepeedutryenika-161
22. What is a Minor Program?
A Minor Program enables students to broaden their knowledge and competencies by completing a specified number of courses in a discipline other than their primary field of study.
Students who successfully complete the program receive a Minor Certificate. However, completion of a minor program does not lead to a second bachelor's degree.
23. Which minor programs are available to Early Childhood Education students?
The Department of Early Childhood Education offers reciprocal or one-way minor program agreements with various departments.
The opening of a minor program and student admissions depend on the relevant protocol and the quotas announced for each academic year. According to the current Double Major and Minor Programs list, students enrolled in the following programs may pursue a minor in Early Childhood Education: German Language Education, French Language Education, Computer Education and Instructional Technology, Information and Records Management, Physical Education and Sports Teaching
Current quotas and application opportunities are announced separately each academic year.
24. When and under what conditions can I apply for a Minor Program?
Applications to the Minor Program may be submitted no earlier than the beginning of the third semester and no later than the beginning of the sixth semester of the student's undergraduate program.
Applicants must: Have successfully completed all courses in their major program up to the semester of application; and Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 out of 4.00. Applications must be submitted with a petition and an official transcript within the deadlines specified in the academic calendar.
Double Major and Minor programs are offered in accordance with the quotas announced for the relevant academic year and the applicable university regulations. Up-to-date information regarding application dates, eligibility requirements, and required documents is available through announcements published by the Hacettepe University Office of Student Affairs, the Faculty of Education, and the Department of Early Childhood Education.
25. Can I participate in research projects?
Yes. Our students have the opportunity to participate in research projects conducted by faculty members, including projects funded by TÜBİTAK, the Hacettepe University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit (BAP), as well as national and international research projects, in accordance with the scope and implementation procedures of each project. Through these experiences, students gain hands-on experience in various stages of the research process, such as data collection, implementation, material development, and other research-related activities.
In addition, under the guidance of their academic advisors, students may develop and submit their own research proposals to the TÜBİTAK 2209-A University Students Research Projects Support Program. This program encourages students to develop a research culture, strengthen their scientific thinking skills, and gain valuable experience in designing and conducting research projects.
Participation in research projects and applications for research funding are carried out in accordance with the eligibility requirements and implementation guidelines of the relevant programs.
D. Admissions and Transfer Procedures
26. What types of transfer applications are accepted at Hacettepe University?
Hacettepe University offers three main types of horizontal (inter-university) transfer:
Internal Transfer (between programs within Hacettepe University)
Inter-University Transfer (from another higher education institution)
Transfer Based on Central Placement Score (Additional Article 1)
Each transfer category has its own eligibility requirements, quotas, and evaluation procedures.
27. Can I transfer internally to the Early Childhood Education Program from another program at Hacettepe University?
Yes, provided that quotas are opened by the relevant faculty and administrative boards.
For four-year undergraduate programs, internal transfers are accepted only at the beginning of the third and fifth semesters, and only between programs admitting students through the same university entrance examination score type.
Applicants must: Have completed at least two semesters in their current program; Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 out of 4.00.
Students may benefit from the internal transfer opportunity only once during their undergraduate education.
28. What are the requirements for transferring to the Early Childhood Education Program from another university?
Inter-university transfers are available between equivalent undergraduate programs that admit students through the same entrance examination and score type, subject to quotas announced by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK).
According to the current regulations of Hacettepe University, applicants must: Have successfully completed all courses taken in the completed semesters; and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 out of 4.00.
Applicants must also satisfy all other eligibility requirements and apply within the available quota. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission, as applicants are ranked competitively based on the evaluation criteria.
29. How can I transfer through the Central Placement Score (Additional Article 1)?
To apply under Additional Article 1, the student's university entrance examination score from the year they were admitted to university must be equal to or higher than the minimum admission score of the intended program for that same year.
At Hacettepe University, applications under Additional Article 1 are generally accepted only for the fall semester, typically in August. Mid-year applications for the spring semester are not accepted.
30. Will my previous coursework be recognized after transferring, and how is my year of study determined?
Courses completed in the student's previous program are evaluated by the relevant academic unit and administrative board based on their course content, credit value, and program learning outcomes. Following this evaluation, decisions are made regarding: Course exemptions, Credit transfers, any required additional courses, and the academic year in which the student will be placed.
Therefore, acceptance of a transfer application does not necessarily mean that the student will continue from the same year of study as in their previous institution.
Transfer admission processes are conducted in accordance with the announced quotas, application deadlines, required documents, and the applicable regulations. Before applying, prospective students are advised to review the latest announcements published by the Hacettepe University Office of Student Affairs, the Faculty of Education, and the Department of Early Childhood Education.
E. Graduation and Career Opportunities
31. Can graduates only become teachers?
No. Graduates of the Bachelor’s Program in Early Childhood Education can work as teachers in public preschool institutions affiliated with the Turkish Ministry of National Education, as well as in private early childhood education institutions.
In addition, graduates may pursue careers in a wide range of settings, including child care institutions and child welfare services affiliated with the Ministry of Family and Social Services, special education and rehabilitation centers, municipal child and family service units, children's museums, and non-governmental organizations. They may also work in organizations that develop educational materials and digital content for children, in children's publishing, and in the design and development of educational content for television and digital media. Other career opportunities include educational consulting, research, and project development.
Graduates who complete postgraduate studies may pursue academic careers at universities or work as researchers, specialists, or project coordinators in early childhood education within public institutions and national or international organizations.
Therefore, the Bachelor’s Program in Early Childhood Education prepares graduates not only for teaching careers but also for diverse professional opportunities in education, child services, publishing, media, research, project development, and academia.
32. What pathways are available for graduates who wish to pursue an academic career?
Graduates interested in an academic career may continue their education through master's and doctoral programs, preparing for careers as university faculty members and researchers.
The Department of Early Childhood Education offers:
Master's Program with Thesis
Non-Thesis Master's Program
Doctoral (Ph.D.) Program
During their graduate studies, students have opportunities to develop expertise through scientific research, research projects, and academic publications.
33. How do I apply for graduate programs?
Application requirements, available quotas, and application dates for the department's Master's (with thesis), Non-Thesis Master's, and Doctoral programs are announced by the Graduate School of Educational Sciences at Hacettepe University.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the most recent admission announcements and the specific requirements of their intended program before applying.
Detailed information about the application process is available on the official website of the Graduate School of Educational Sciences.
34. How can I contact the faculty members and the department office?
The faculty members and administrative office of the Department of Early Childhood Education are located within the Department of Primary Education, Faculty of Education, Hacettepe University Beytepe Campus.
Contact Information
Address: Department of Early Childhood Education, Department of Primary Education, Faculty of Education Hacettepe University, Beytepe Campus 06800 Ankara, Türkiye
E-mail: okuloncesi@hacettepe.edu.tr
The most up-to-date contact information for faculty members is available on the department's website: https://okuloncesi.hacettepe.edu.tr/