Vision

The vision of the Department of Special Education at Hacettepe University's Faculty of Education is to become a leading and respected institution in the field of special education, both nationally and internationally. The department aims to be an integral part of the global academic community while playing a pioneering role in advancing the field of special education in Turkey. In line with this vision, our primary objective is to educate teachers and academics who are equipped with a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills applicable in diverse educational settings.

We aspire to cultivate human-centered educators and researchers who can create meaningful transformations in the lives of individuals with special needs. Our program is designed around the most up-to-date instructional practices, with the goal of equipping students with the latest knowledge, approaches, and technologies in the field. Supported by a strong academic team that contributes to scientific advancement, we place great importance on educating individuals who are not only capable of transmitting knowledge but also generating it. Our interdisciplinary approach ensures that special education is integrated with fields such as educational sciences, psychology, and technology.

The program is structured around an innovative understanding that blends technology with special education, enabling our students to become professionals who can effectively use technological tools, make data-driven decisions, and continuously improve instructional processes. Our overarching aim is to train special education specialists who possess a scientific perspective, adhere to ethical values, are sensitive to societal needs, and believe in the potential of every individual—thus contributing to the development of the field at both national and international levels

Mission

The Department of Special Education at Hacettepe University Faculty of Education is committed to advancing the field of special education by producing theoretical and applied knowledge with international relevance. Our primary goal is to educate highly qualified special education teachers who can serve effectively both in Turkey and internationally, particularly in institutions affiliated with the Ministry of National Education. In addition, we strive to support the continuous development of the field by addressing local and global challenges in special education and by training future academics who will contribute to scholarly advancement.

In line with the vision of our research-oriented university, our program develops interdisciplinary and technology-integrated teaching and learning processes. This structure goes beyond providing students with theoretical knowledge—it also encourages them to make original contributions to the field of special education through scientific research. Alongside the production of academic knowledge, transferring this knowledge to society—particularly through guidance and support services for families—is among the key pillars of our program’s social responsibility. At the core of our educational philosophy lie practices aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with special needs and creating meaningful, human-centered impact. Accordingly, we place strong emphasis on institutional collaboration, working with a wide range of stakeholders including schools, universities, and public institutions, to generate sustainable impact at both national and international levels.