TOBB Economics and Technology University

TOBB Economics and Technology University Overview

TOBB University of Economics and Technology (TOBB ETU) is a prestigious foundation university founded in Ankara, Turkey, in 2003 by the Turkey Chambers and Stock Exchanges Education and Culture Foundation, an affiliate of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey. The establishment of the university was officially announced in the Official Gazette on July 1, 2003.

One of the key differentiators that sets TOBB ETU apart from other universities in Turkey is its innovative Cooperative Education Program. This program aims to equip students with practical work experience during their university education, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge that will be beneficial in their future careers. By offering students the opportunity to work in the private sector or various institutions for a year while receiving a salary, TOBB ETU addresses the demand for qualified professionals in the industry and fosters a strong university-industry collaboration.

During the inaugural 2004-2005 academic year, TOBB ETU commenced its educational journey with three faculties: the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. These faculties housed seven departments and welcomed a total of 270 students. Remarkably, during its initial intake, TOBB ETU emerged as one of the top five most preferred universities among students.

The university's commitment to academic excellence and outstanding performance did not go unnoticed. In the 2013 URAP (University Ranking by Academic Performance) evaluation, TOBB ETU secured the first place among the universities established after the year 2000. Additionally, in the same ranking, it was placed among the top five foundation universities in Turkey.

Beyond national recognition, TOBB ETU has also made its mark on the international stage. Being among the 18 Turkish universities included in the prestigious Times Higher Education's World University Rankings, it represents the youngest Turkish university to achieve this feat. While currently positioned in the 601-800 band, its steady progress and dedication to scholarly advancement promise a bright future for the institution.

The inception of TOBB ETU can be traced back to the early 2000s, a period of significant challenges for Turkey's economy and society. Among various factors contributing to economic instability, unemployment emerged as a major concern, partly attributed to the lack of skilled labor force generated by the higher education system. In response to this issue, the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey envisioned the establishment of a university that could address the demand for competent professionals across industries. With the goal of becoming a globally recognized center of research and academic excellence, TOBB ETU was conceived.

To realize this vision, the TOBB Education and Culture Foundation (TOBEV) was established, gaining legal status on July 19, 2001. Subsequently, on July 1, 2003, the TOBB University of Economics and Technology was officially founded through the 4909 Law published in the Official Gazette. Its regulations were then published on July 8, 2004. From its very first year of existence, TOBB ETU earned a place among the top five most preferred universities, demonstrating its appeal and relevance to students and the academic community.

Throughout its journey, TOBB ETU has continued to thrive and expand. Today, it boasts six faculties, offering a diverse range of programs, along with 21 departments and two institutes. In a notable development, TOBB ETU acquired the Mesa Hospital on December 27, 2004, rebranding it as the TOBB ETU Hospital, and later established a medical faculty, solidifying its position as a comprehensive and forward-thinking educational institution.