Department of Social Services and Counseling

Associate degree programme training technicians in social services and counselling.

FacultyVocational School of Social Sciences
Duration2 Years
DegreeAssociate Degree
LanguageTurkish
InternshipMandatory
Programme TypeFull-Time

Who Is It For?

The Social Services and Counseling program is suitable for students who are sensitive to social issues, enjoy communicating with people, have strong empathy skills, are patient, and possess good listening abilities. It appeals to individuals who want to help disadvantaged groups, have a sense of justice, are inclined toward teamwork, and can cope with stressful situations.

Quick Summary

  • 2-year associate degree program
  • Full-time education in Turkish
  • Mandatory internship
  • Erasmus exchange program available
  • Bachelor's degree completion via DGS available
  • Curriculum focused on social work, counseling, and community service

About the Department

The Social Services and Counseling program at the Vocational School of Social Sciences provides education to meet the demand for allied personnel in the social work field. The program combines theoretical knowledge with field practice in areas such as social work applications, counseling techniques, community service, and social assistance processes. Students build knowledge in social topics including child welfare, elderly and disability rights, family counseling, gender equality, migration, and poverty. Mandatory internship ensures students gain field experience at social service organizations. International education opportunities are also available through the Erasmus exchange program.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Social Services and Counseling program find employment at Provincial Directorates of Family and Social Services, municipalities, non-governmental organizations, care centers, orphanages, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community centers. There is also the opportunity to continue to bachelor's degree programs through the Vertical Transfer Exam (DGS).

What Will You Learn?

Understanding social work theories and practice methods
Learning individual and group counseling techniques
Planning and conducting social assistance and support processes
Applying family counseling principles
Developing skills in working with disadvantaged groups (children, elderly, disabled, refugees)
Understanding social policy and legislation
Analyzing social issues and developing intervention plans
Understanding the operations of social service institutions
Providing crisis intervention and psychosocial support
Working in accordance with professional ethical principles

Competencies You Will Gain

Ability to plan and conduct social work practices
Competency in individual and group counseling
Ability to assess the needs of disadvantaged groups
Competency in developing intervention plans for social issues
Empathy and effective communication skills
Competency in applying social work legislation
Ability to provide psychosocial support in crisis situations
Competency in teamwork and inter-institutional coordination
Ability to make decisions within a professional ethical framework
Competency in social reporting and record-keeping

Educational Opportunities

FACILITY #1

Mandatory internship at social service organizations

FACILITY #2

Erasmus exchange program offering international education opportunities

FACILITY #3

Cooperation protocols with NGOs and municipalities

FACILITY #4

Case studies and field applications

FACILITY #5

Seminars with experienced social work professionals

FACILITY #6

Technical visits to community centers and care facilities

FACILITY #7

Psychosocial support workshops

FACILITY #8

Guidance for professional certification programs

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Social Services and Counseling program?
Can I complete a bachelor's degree after graduation?
Is the internship mandatory and where is it done?
Can I benefit from the Erasmus program?
Can I pursue a double major or minor?
Can I become a social worker?
Does the program include practical training?
Where can graduates work?
What is the language of instruction?