Mission: To train professional tourist guides who are capable of representing the rich cultural heritage and historical values of Anatolia on a global scale, equipped with English language proficiency and professional ethics, and prepared to play a leading role in the promotion of Türkiye.

Vision: To be an accredited and preferred associate degree program—recognized as a benchmark within the national and international tourism sectors—by providing high-quality education in English and integrating contemporary pedagogical approaches with practical application.

Students enrolled in the program complete a one-year English preparatory course; however, those who pass the exemption examination may bypass this preparatory year and begin directly in the first year of the curriculum. Students are eligible for graduation upon completing the one-year English preparatory course and the two-year (four-semester) associate degree coursework, having earned the required total credits. Objective: The primary objective of the department is to cultivate a high-quality workforce that meets the needs of the Turkish and global tourism sectors. Graduates will possess comprehensive theoretical knowledge of tourism, substantial industry experience, and proficiency in at least two foreign languages. They will be well-versed in relevant professional legislation and commercial documentation, capable of utilizing current industry-specific technologies, and skilled in decision-making and implementation. Furthermore, they will stay abreast of the latest global developments in tourism, demonstrate expertise in interpersonal relations, possess a broad vision, and remain committed to continuous professional development. Our vision is to be an accredited and preferred associate degree program—recognized as a benchmark within the national and international tourism sectors—by providing high-quality education in English and implementing practices integrated with a contemporary educational approach. Career Opportunities: Graduates of the Tourist Guiding program can work for travel agencies (classified as Group A, B, or C) that are members of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB), as well as for tour operators, handling both domestic and international tours. Furthermore, upon graduation, students may find employment within institutions and organizations affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as well as in hotels, airlines, event management and advertising firms, international promotional offices, and various other public and private sector entities. Vertical Transfer Opportunities (DGS): Students who successfully complete this program are eligible to transition into bachelor’s degree programs—specifically Travel Management, or Travel Management and Tourist Guiding—provided they achieve a qualifying score on the Vertical Transfer Examination (DGS) administered by the Student Selection and Placement Center (ÖSYM).