Undergraduate

The first higher education institution for social services in Turkey was established in 1961. Founded under the Ministry of Health and Social Assistance (now known as the Ministry of Health and Social Services) through Law No. 7355, the Social Services Academy began its educational activities in the 1961-1962 academic year. In the 1964-1965 academic year, it graduated its first cohort, consisting of 9 women and 19 men, totaling 28 graduates.

The second higher education institution for social services was the Department of Social Work, which was established under the Faculty of Social and Administrative Sciences at Hacettepe University in the 1967-1968 academic year. In the 1970-1971 academic year, it graduated its first cohort, consisting of 3 men and 1 woman, totaling 4 graduates.

Social work is a profession and discipline aimed at assisting individuals, groups, and communities in addressing issues related to their social environment, which may include family, school, workplace, society, laws, and policies. Social work seeks to prevent and resolve problems that arise beyond the control of individuals, families, and communities in their living conditions, address both material and non-material needs, and improve social welfare and quality of life. It is a dynamic, action-oriented profession focused on promoting social justice. Social work is an academic approach to solidarity and social cooperation. In this context, as the conscience of society, social workers aim to enhance the functionality and well-being of individuals, families, and communities experiencing deprivation and difficulties, striving to improve their overall welfare.