The Bachelor of Science in Leather Engineering (English) at Ege University is a four-year undergraduate program taught entirely in English, aimed at training engineers specialized in leather and leather-goods industry — from raw leather processing to finished products. Students receive education in material science, leather chemistry, production techniques, quality control, environmental and waste management, and product design for leather goods such as footwear, garments, accessories, and upholstery. The program combines engineering fundamentals, chemical and biochemical courses, applied laboratory practices, and industry-oriented production techniques within a pilot plant and advanced labs — preparing graduates to meet national and global leather industry demands.
Situated in İzmir at the Bornova campus, Leather Engineering at Ege University stands out as the first and only department in Turkey offering a full bachelor program in leather engineering — making it a rare and specialized choice for those interested in leather, materials, manufacturing and design industries worldwide. The education includes modern laboratories, an on-campus pilot plant for real-scale leather and leather-goods production, and opportunities for research, innovation, and international collaboration.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Location: İzmir
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Leather Engineering, Leather Technology, Materials & Chemical Processing, Leather Goods Production
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction (subject to national entrance exam)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations: Basic Sciences & Material Understanding
- Mathematics I / Calculus & Basic Engineering Mathematics
- Introduction to Leather Engineering & Material Science
- General Chemistry / Chemistry for Leather Technology Basics
- General Education / University Requirement Course
Semester 2 – Core Sciences – Chemistry & Materials
- Mathematics II / Statistics & Quantitative Methods
- Physical Chemistry or Chemistry II
- Introduction to Leather Materials: Fibers & Raw Materials
- General Elective or Supporting Course
Semester 3 – Leather Science & Processing Fundamentals
- Leather Chemistry I / Fundamentals of Leather Production Chemistry
- Materials Science Applied to Leather & Polymers
- Process Fundamentals / Basic Production Processes
- Supporting Laboratory / General Elective
Semester 4 – Processing & Technology – Basic to Intermediate
- Leather Processing Technology I (Tanning, Crusting, Wet Processing)
- Chemical & Physical Testing of Leather / Quality Control Basics
- Environmental and Waste Management in Leather Industry
- Elective Course I
Semester 5 – Advanced Leather Technology & Goods Production
- Leather Processing Technology II (Finishing, Dyeing, Coating)
- Leather Goods Production & Manufacturing Techniques (Footwear, Bags, Apparel)
- Strength & Durability Testing / Physical-Chemical Tests for Finished Leather
- Elective Course II
Semester 6 – Specialized Leather Engineering & Sustainability
- Technical Leather & Special Products (Automotive, Upholstery, Technical Textiles)
- Industrial Processes & Plant Operations / Pilot Plant Applications
- Quality Assurance, Standardisation & Certifications in Leather Industry
- Elective Course III
Semester 7 – Design, Innovation & Industry Integration
- Leather Goods Design & Product Development / Fashion & Design Collaboration
- Internship / Industry Practice or Production Project
- Elective Course IV (elective technical, design, or management course)
- Elective Course V (complementary skill or interdisciplinary)
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Graduation Project / Thesis-style Leather Engineering Project
- Elective Course VI (advanced elective or specialization)
- Elective Course VII (optional)
- Portfolio Development, Professional Training & Career Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are qualified to work in a broad spectrum of sectors within the leather and leather-goods industry: tanneries, leather chemicals companies, leather product manufacturing (footwear, bags, jackets, accessories), upholstery and furniture leather, automotive leather interiors, quality-control and testing labs, R&D centers, sustainable leather production firms, and export/import companies. They may also serve as product developers, materials engineers, quality assurance experts, and environmental-compliance specialists.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Leather Engineering (English) at Ege University means enrolling in a unique and internationally recognized program — the first and only of its kind in Turkey, and among the few in the world offering specialized leather-industry engineering education.
The department’s close ties with the leather goods industry, opportunities for double-major/minor with other engineering disciplines, and participation in national/international competitions and events provide graduates with a competitive edge both in Turkey and globally.
Contact Information
Ege University – Student Advisory Service
Bornova Campus
35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 10 10
Fax: +90 232 311 10 11
Email: info@ege.edu.tr
Leather Engineering Department – Programme Contact
Department of Leather Engineering
Faculty of Engineering
35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 27 51
Fax: +90 232 339 92 22
Email: textile@ege.edu.tr
International Office – Ege University
Bornova Campus
35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 10 10
Fax: +90 232 311 10 11
Email: internationaloffice@ege.edu.tr
