Ankara University

Ankara University Overview

Ankara University stands as a symbol of the Turkish Republic's heritage and aspirations, intricately woven into a fabric of societal transformation. Its inception, during an era that witnessed the birth of the Turkish Republic, represents a monumental shift towards modernity, democratic principles, and scholarly pursuits. This institution, founded under the visionary Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's guidance, embodies a distinct mission: to uphold Atatürk's principles and reforms, disseminate these ideals across the nation, and tirelessly advocate for the advancement of enlightenment, science, and contemporary thought.

During the early years of the fledgling republic, Ankara University spearheaded transformative initiatives in higher education. Notable achievements included the establishment of the Faculty of Law in 1925, aimed at nurturing legal minds aligned with the new order; the inception of the Faculty of Agriculture in 1933, dedicated to serving the Turkish farming community; the unveiling of the Faculty of Language, History, and Geography in 1935, aimed at fostering cultural bridges and global connections; and the relocation of the School of Political Sciences, personally founded by Atatürk, in 1936. Furthermore, during the challenging times of World War II, the Faculties of Medicine and Science were initiated under Atatürk's preparatory efforts and officially formed in the early 1940s. These faculties of Law, Language, History and Geography, Science, and Medicine collectively formed the cornerstone of Ankara University's official establishment in 1946.

Subsequent years witnessed the university's unwavering dedication to academic progress. The year 1948 marked the integration of the Faculty of Agriculture and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine into the university's academic fabric. In 1949, the Faculty of Theology joined the ranks, followed by the transformation of the School of Political Sciences into the Faculty of Political Sciences in 1950. In the ensuing years, the university expanded its horizons further with the establishment of faculties such as Pharmacy (1960), Dentistry (1977), Education Sciences (1965), Communication (formerly Press and Broadcasting, 1965), and Engineering (2001), all contributing to its academic prowess. The university's commitment to excellence was further highlighted with the establishment of the Faculty of Health Sciences in 2007, the Faculty of Sports Sciences in 2013, and the Faculty of Applied Sciences in 2014. The recent activation of the Faculty of Fine Arts, initially founded in 1996 and officially launched in 2015, showcased the institution's ongoing evolution. The more recent additions of the Faculty of Nursing in 2017, featuring Nursing and Midwifery departments, and the inception of the Faculty of Open and Distance Education in 2020 underscored Ankara University's enduring commitment to diversified and accessible education.

As of the academic year 2021-22, Ankara University proudly accommodated a total of 70,221 students, encompassing 9,923 associate degree, 48,271 undergraduate, 5,751 master's, and 6,276 doctoral candidates. Supported by a steadfast academic staff, the university boasted 1,113 professors, 364 associate professors, 281 doctors, 684 lecturers, and 1,309 research assistants by 2022.

The university's diverse array of faculties encompasses disciplines such as Language, History, and Geography; Dentistry; Education Sciences; Pharmacy; Science; Fine Arts; Nursing; Law; Theology; Communication; Engineering; Health Sciences; Political Sciences; Sports Sciences; Medicine; Applied Sciences; Veterinary Medicine; and Agriculture.

Guided by a visionary outlook, Ankara University has meticulously formulated a set of objectives to drive its growth. These objectives are designed to reinforce the institution's role as a pioneering force in research, education, and community engagement. By enhancing internal resources, promoting research endeavors, fostering a scholarly environment, and expanding doctoral programs, the university is committed to cultivating a vibrant research culture. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaborations and alignment with priority fields underscores the institution's dedication to making significant contributions to the scientific realm.

Ankara University aims to elevate the quality of education and nurture graduates of exceptional caliber. By attracting high-caliber students, increasing faculty numbers, optimizing learning environments, and enhancing program quality, the university is unwavering in its mission to develop the intellect and potential of its learners. The facilitation of academic and personal development, promotion of exchange programs, and support for distance education further exemplify Ankara University's commitment to comprehensive and accessible learning.

Demonstrating a strong sense of civic responsibility, Ankara University seeks to collaborate with various segments of society to address contemporary challenges. Through partnerships with public and private entities, dissemination of knowledge through various communication channels, and active participation in social and cultural initiatives, the university remains dedicated to fostering societal well-being and progress.

In the domain of healthcare, Ankara University's vision entails establishing a robust institutional framework characterized by a commitment to effective healthcare delivery and the creation of advanced tertiary medical centers. The university pledges to prioritize patient satisfaction, adapt to changing demographic and technological dynamics, and contribute to healthcare tourism through international collaborations.

Moreover, Ankara University is resolute in enhancing the quality of campus life for students, staff, and stakeholders across its premises. By addressing physical, spatial, and technological deficiencies, enhancing essential student services, nurturing social life on campuses, and ensuring equitable access to academic publications, the university is devoted to enriching the overall living experience within its community.

To foster agility in the face of evolving conditions, Ankara University is committed to enhancing its institutional structure, aligning its goals and objectives with a dynamic administrative framework. The development of comprehensive information systems, participation-centric governance, establishment of a unifying corporate identity, and promotion of professional growth and job satisfaction among employees form the cornerstones of Ankara University's adaptive framework.

In its aspirational pursuit of excellence, Ankara University envisions itself as a catalyst of transformative research, utilizing knowledge and expertise for the greater benefit of humanity and the nation, ultimately leaving an indelible mark on the trajectory of innovation. 

Ankara University, as the inaugural university of the Republic, undertakes the task of nurturing critical and innovative individuals with problem-solving skills, fostering ongoing personal and professional growth, cultivating environmental awareness, and promoting diversity appreciation. It commits to advancing worldwide scientific and artistic knowledge while upholding ethical principles and championing interdisciplinary research. Additionally, the university is dedicated to rendering socially responsible services that confront the nation's hurdles, contribute to the city's progress, and safeguard the public interest.