We believe that university students need perspectives drawn from philosophy, sociology, history, art, and the natural sciences to not only become experts in their fields but also to grow into well-rounded, creative individuals who have a broad perspective, and can positively contribute to society. We believe in the nurturing and improving power of the ability of looking into things from different perspectives, as only such diversity can save a person from a one-dimensional view of the world. Critical thinking which enables development, and an objective perspective which is free from any specific worldview or belief can only root in this way. 

In today’s world, where creating shared values is incredibly important, we recognize that this can only happen based on universal principles. Art, the natural sciences, and the humanities offer us this universality.

Guided by these principles, the Department of Common Courses which began its journey with Atatürk’s Principles and History of Turkish Revolution, and Turkish Studies courses, aims to add art, basic positive sciences, and humanities, thus providing students with courses where they can develop themselves further, and to supplement these classes with various activities. We hold the belief that science should serve an ethical life worthy of human dignity and see it as our duty to reveal the possibility of ethical living. 

Our hope is to build a better future together. 

Assoc. Prof. Selda Salman Sakızlı 
IKU Head of the Department of Common Courses