Bachelor of Arts in History

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Sabancı University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the field of history, aiming to cultivate a deep understanding of historical processes, cultural developments, and societal transformations from various regions and periods. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced appreciation of the complexity of historical narratives, encouraging students to examine historical events through multiple perspectives and methodologies. Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and empirical research, the curriculum includes courses in world history, regional histories, historiography, and specialized topics such as social, political, and economic history. Students also gain proficiency in research techniques and academic writing, enabling them to produce scholarly work that contributes to contemporary discussions on historical issues. The program fosters an environment of active learning, encouraging students to participate in seminars, workshops, and internships that connect historical scholarship with real-world applications. Additionally, students have access to Sabancı University’s advanced resources, including digital archives, libraries, and research centers, facilitating in-depth study and original research projects. The faculty members are experienced scholars committed to mentoring students and supporting their academic and professional growth. Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse career paths, including academia, education, journalism, cultural heritage management, public administration, and international relations. The Bachelor of Arts in History at Sabancı University combines rigorous academic training with experiential learning opportunities, aiming to produce well-rounded individuals capable of contributing thoughtfully to society’s understanding of the past and its influence on the present and future.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Sabancı University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the past, emphasizing critical thinking, historiographical analysis, and understanding of diverse cultures and civilizations. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in historical methods and theories while encouraging students to analyze primary and secondary sources rigorously. Students will engage with a wide range of historical periods, from ancient civilizations to modern history, gaining insights into political, social, economic, cultural, and intellectual developments across different regions and eras.

Throughout their studies, students will have the opportunity to develop their research skills through individual and group projects, seminars, and internships. The curriculum emphasizes regional history with particular attention to Turkey and the surrounding Middle Eastern context, fostering a nuanced understanding of local, national, and global histories. In addition, the program encourages familiarity with relevant language skills and historical methodologies, enabling students to undertake original research and contribute to ongoing scholarly debates.

The program is structured to include core courses in historical theory, historiography, and research methods, complemented by specialized electives in areas such as Ottoman and Turkish history, European history, Middle Eastern history, and world history. Students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad programs and academic exchanges to broaden their perspectives and gain international experience.

Graduates of the History program will be equipped with analytical, research, and communication skills applicable in various professional fields such as academia, journalism, cultural heritage management, public history, and diplomatic services. The program aims to produce well-rounded historians capable of critically engaging with the past and understanding its significance for contemporary society. Throughout their education at Sabancı University, students will be guided by experienced faculty members dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and scholarly excellence.

The Bachelor's Degree Program in History at Sabancı University requires students to complete a total of 240 ECTS credits over the course of four years. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of historical processes, themes, and methodologies, integrating both theoretical and practical approaches. Students are expected to take core courses in ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern history, as well as specialized electives that allow them to focus on specific regions or periods of interest. In addition to history courses, students must complete courses in related disciplines such as political science, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies to foster interdisciplinary analysis. Language proficiency is also emphasized; students are generally required to demonstrate proficiency in at least one foreign language, often English, through coursework or examinations.

Advanced research skills are developed through participation in seminars, research projects, and a mandatory graduation thesis, which involves original research conducted under faculty supervision. To graduate, students must achieve a minimum GPA as specified in the university regulations, typically around 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, though competitive programs may set higher standards. Additionally, students are encouraged to engage in internships, study abroad programs, and academic conferences to enhance their learning experience and professional development. The curriculum is structured to promote critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, journalism, public policy, international relations, and cultural preservation. Students are advised to consult the Sabancı University academic catalog and departmental guidelines for specific course sequences, prerequisites, and any updated program requirements.

The financing of the History undergraduate program at Sabancı University is primarily supported through various institutional funding sources, including government grants, university allocations, and potential scholarships. Students enrolled in the program have access to financial aid options designed to facilitate their academic pursuits and reduce economic barriers. Sabancı University offers merit-based scholarships that recognize academic excellence, which can significantly offset tuition costs for outstanding students. Additionally, the university provides need-based financial support to eligible students, helping to cover tuition fees and living expenses. The university’s financial assistance programs are aimed at fostering a diverse student body and ensuring that talented students from different socio-economic backgrounds can pursue higher education in History. Furthermore, opportunities for research grants and stipends may be available for students engaged in thesis work or research projects under faculty supervision. International students may also benefit from specific scholarship programs aimed at attracting talented students from around the world, thereby promoting cultural diversity within the program. Tuition fees for the History program are determined annually by the university administration, reflecting operational costs, program investments, and societal economic factors. The university actively seeks external funding and partnerships to enhance educational quality and provide additional financial resources for students. Students are encouraged to explore governmental student loan options and external funding opportunities offered by various foundations and organizations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance and support to help students navigate the available financing options, ensuring they can pursue their academic goals without undue financial hardship. Overall, Sabancı University’s approach to financing the History program is designed to balance institutional resources, support for students, and external funding to create an accessible and sustainable educational environment.

The undergraduate program in History at Sabancı University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the study of historical events, developments, and processes across various periods and regions. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the social, cultural, political, and economic factors that have shaped human history. Students will engage with diverse historical sources and methodologies, fostering an ability to interpret past events within their broader contexts. The curriculum includes core courses in world history, regional histories, and specialized topics, as well as elective courses allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as cultural history, political history, or economic history. Sabancı University emphasizes a project-based and research-oriented approach, encouraging students to participate in internships, fieldwork, and collaborative research projects. The program aims to prepare graduates for diverse career paths including academia, cultural management, journalism, public history, and further postgraduate studies. Additionally, students benefit from the university’s strong international academic network, visiting scholar programs, and various seminars that enhance their academic and professional development. The program also fosters a global perspective, integrating comparative history and encouraging understanding of regional and transnational processes. Overall, the History program at Sabancı University strives to produce well-rounded historians equipped to analyze and interpret the past in relation to contemporary issues and future challenges.