The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at METU is an undergraduate program aimed at providing students with a comprehensive understanding of social structures, institutions, and processes. The curriculum combines theoretical sociology, social research methods, statistical analysis, and critical social theory — enabling students to analyze societal issues, understand social dynamics, and conduct empirical research. Through lectures, seminars and methodological training, students develop strong skills in analysis, interpretation, and research design, preparing them for careers in social research, policy analysis, community studies, or further academic work.
Located in Ankara within a reputable academic environment, this program integrates rigorous social science training with opportunities for empirical work and interdisciplinary electives. Students learn to examine issues such as inequality, culture, social change, institutions, and modern social phenomena, equipping them with analytical, conceptual, and methodological competence to engage with societal challenges.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-medium)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Sociology, Social Theory, Social Research Methods, Institutions & Social Structures, Contemporary Social Issues
- Admission modus: Regular undergraduate admissions
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Sociology & Basic Concepts
- Introduction to Sociology I
- Social Theory Basics
- Introductory Statistics / Quantitative Methods
- General Elective / Foundation Courses
- Academic English / Supporting Courses
Semester 2 – Classical Sociological Theory & Research Methods
- Introduction to Sociology II
- Classical Social Theory / History of Sociological Thought
- Research Methods I / Quantitative Methods in Social Sciences
- Supporting Electives / General Courses
Semester 3 – Social Structures & Institutions
- Sociology of Institutions / Social Institutions & Organizations
- Sociology of Culture & Society
- Qualitative Research Methods I
- Supporting Courses / Electives
Semester 4 – Social Change, Demography & Social Analysis
- Sociology of Social Change / Modernity & Social Transformations
- Population Studies / Demography / Urban Sociology
- Qualitative Research Methods II / Research Design & Field Methods
- Elective / Supporting Courses
Semester 5 – Contemporary Sociology & Applied Topics I
- Sociology of Globalization / Global & Transnational Sociology
- Sociology of Economy & Work / Social Stratification & Inequality
- Elective Courses (social policy, environment & society, media & society etc.)
- Seminar / Research Methods Advanced
Semester 6 – Contemporary Sociology & Applied Topics II
- Sociology of Politics & Power / Social Movements & Institutions
- Sociology of Culture & Identity / Gender & Society / Comparative Sociology
- Elective Courses
- Research Project Preparation / Seminar
Semester 7 – Specialization, Research & Electives
- Specialized electives depending on interest (e.g. environment & society, media, urban sociology, development sociology)
- Social Research Project / Fieldwork or Independent Study
- Elective Courses
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Final Electives
- Senior Research Project or Thesis-type Work (if applicable)
- Advanced electives in specialized sociological areas
- Preparation for graduation, academic or professional transition
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in social research, policy analysis, public administration, NGOs, community development, social consultancy, media, human rights organizations, and continuing graduate studies (M.A. / Ph.D.). They may work as sociologists, social researchers, policy analysts, community program coordinators, researchers in governmental/non-governmental institutions, or academics.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Sociology at METU provides a broad and rigorous education in social theory, research methods, and analysis of modern social issues within an English-medium academic environment. The program offers interdisciplinary electives and empirical research opportunities, making it versatile for careers or further academic pursuits.
With its critical, analytical, and methodological focus, the Sociology B.A. equips students to understand complex social phenomena, contribute to research or policy, and adapt to diverse social science careers or academic tracks.
Contact Information
Middle East Technical University – Faculty of Arts and Sciences / Department of Sociology
Dumlupınar Boulevard No:1, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1234
Email: sociology@metu.edu.tr
Department of Sociology – Student Affairs Office
Faculty of Arts and Sciences, METU
06800 Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1235
Email: sociology-undergrad@metu.edu.tr
International Office – Middle East Technical University
METU Campus, 06800
Çankaya, Ankara, Türkiye
Tel: +90 312 210 1060
Email: ico@metu.edu.tr
