Department of Geography

Hello, I am Suna ÇİFTÇİ, a senior student majoring in Geography at Balıkesir University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Our Geography department is situated in the Çağış Campus and was established with the goal of nurturing individuals who possess a deep understanding of the geography they inhabit and can generate scientific knowledge at a universal level in every aspect.
Within the Geography department, there are five specific branches of study: Physical Geography, Human and Economic Geography, Regional Geography, Turkish Geography, and Geographic Information Systems. However, undergraduate education is conducted through a shared departmental program. During the initial two years of the four-year curriculum, fundamental geography courses, along with subjects such as climatology, hydrography, and an introduction to geography, are taught. Starting from the third year, students have the opportunity to choose elective courses that cover topics like settlement geography in Turkey, transportation geography, and fieldwork.
Our department is equipped with a Geographic Information System laboratory and a seminar room, which also houses a departmental library. There is no mandatory internship program or graduation project in my department. Upon graduation, students earn the title of geographer. Our graduates have employment prospects in both public and private sectors. Furthermore, those who acquire pedagogical formation education can pursue teaching positions in both sectors. Additionally, individuals interested in advancing their expertise in the field of Geographic Information Systems can find employment in areas such as migration, disasters, geography, tourism, and mining.
I personally chose the Geography department due to the abundance of job opportunities it offers. The success and vibrancy of the university hold great importance to me. Balıkesir University was my preferred choice because of its location in the South Marmara region, which provides ample job prospects and a highly developed social environment. Among the opportunities available within my department, I have benefited greatly from the teaching staff. Their accessibility allows us to seek clarification on any subject matter we may not fully comprehend. Moreover, I have made use of the library, the Congress Cultural Center, the cafeteria, and the swimming pool, as well as becoming an active member of various student societies such as the Geography Club and the Mountaineering Club. I regularly participate in the activities organized by these clubs.
After graduation, my initial goal is to gain experience in the teaching profession. Subsequently, I aspire to pursue an academic career in a field related to my department. For candidates considering the Geography department, I recommend conducting thorough research, making an informed decision, and willingly joining our department. It is crucial to approach the selection process consciously. I extend my best wishes to all students preparing for university entrance exams and encourage them to consider the Geography Department at Balıkesir University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences.