Message from the Chair

As one of the leading departments in the field of early childhood education in Türkiye, our department has been offering the undergraduate program since 1998, master’s program since 2003, and doctoral program since 2006. Through our programs, we prepare self-confident, highly motivated early childhood professionals who acquire the best knowledge, attitudes and skills to work with young children and families in various early childhood settings. 

Our undergraduate program offers a broad range of courses that balance theoretical knowledge and teaching practice. I proudly underline that we are the only early childhood teacher education program in Türkiye that offers a great number of internship courses. Starting from their freshman years, our students take various responsibilities as observers and student-teachers in educational settings to ensure they have adequate in-classroom experience before graduation.

Our department offers graduate programs leading to master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees. These programs provide a wide variety of courses and experiences related to theories and concepts associated with early childhood education. The Early Childhood Education master’s program is one of the three English-medium programs in Türkiye, whereas our doctoral program is currently the only one. Moreover, the portfolio system in our doctoral program distinguishes us from similar programs and has aroused great interest nationwide. Currently, we have approximately 150 undergraduate, 21 master’s, and 25 doctoral students. 

Our faculty members deliver high-quality graduate and undergraduate training, publish and share their research in highly-regarded academic venues. Our faculty has expertise in areas such as STEM education, media studies, culturally responsive pedagogies, sustainable development, science and mathematics education, environmental education, family engagement, assessment and evaluation in the early years, gender equality in education, play pedagogy, outdoor and movement education, and teachers’ professional development. I invite you to visit our website (https://eece.metu.edu.tr) for further information about our programs and faculty members. 

Best wishes,

Prof. Dr. Feyza Tantekin Erden