FOREIGN TRADE DEPARTMENT
Our department is one of the 10 programs within Pamukkale University Honaz Vocational School and provides education to the students in the Normal Education process. Our students can do an internship in sectoral workplaces for one semester within the scope of 3+1 Workplace Vocational Training in their final year, and after the internship, they can stay and be employed in these workplaces.
The Foreign Trade Department is established to train expert workforce in areas related to foreign trade, such as import and export. Graduates of this department are expected to have knowledge in areas such as logistics, banking, customs, international transportation, and foreign exchange regulations. It is important for students choosing this department to have well-developed communication skills, as well as problem-solving, analytical thinking, planning, computer skills, and reporting abilities. The question "What does foreign trade do?" can be answered by saying it deals with foreign markets. In addition to developing trade with foreign markets, this sector also encompasses carrying out import and export transactions in accordance with legal regulations. It ensures that foreign currency enters the country through exports, that imports are carried out in accordance with regulations, and that goods such as pharmaceuticals and technology products needed in the market enter the country freely. Students working in foreign trade internships can gain experience by putting their theoretical knowledge into practice.
The department is a 2-year associate degree program that accepts students based on university entrance exam scores. Minimum entrance scores for foreign trade vary from university to university. Students gain knowledge in foreign trade topics throughout their 2-year education. To graduate from the associate degree program, students must take and successfully complete courses worth 120 ECTS credits. Those who succeed in the program can then take the Vertical Transfer Exam (DGS) administered by ÖSYM (Student Selection and Placement Center) to complete a 4-year bachelor's degree program. The 4-year programs that students who qualify to study in the Foreign Trade DGS transfer programs can attend are listed below.
Banking
European Union Relations
Capital Markets
Economics
Labor Economics and Industrial Relations
Economics
Logistics
Business Administration
International Finance
Finance
International Trade
Political Science and International Relations
In addition to all these, graduates of this department also have the right to transfer to the Open Education Faculty (AÖF) with their DGS score. Graduates can transfer to one of the faculties such as the Faculty of Economics or the Faculty of Business Administration in the Open Education Faculty via DGS. Foreign trade transfer programs are also among the options that can be considered.
Foreign trade education is crucial for students to gain knowledge about the dynamics of international trade. During their studies, students acquire knowledge of foreign trade management. In addition, they take fundamental courses such as Turkish Language, Atatürk's Principles and History of the Turkish Revolution, and Mathematics. The training they receive in subjects like Economics, Law, Accounting, International Marketing, and Logistics also contributes to their careers upon graduation. International logistics and customs regulations are particularly important from an operational perspective. Furthermore, students gain knowledge of the global economy and international marketing during their studies. Internships in their field both reinforce their knowledge and help them gain experience.
Upon graduating and completing the required credits in these courses, students receive a "Foreign Trade Associate Degree Diploma." Students who wish to pursue a four-year degree in foreign trade can do so. To benefit from this advantage, successful completion of the courses mentioned above is necessary.
The question of what a foreign trade graduate does is frequently asked by students preparing for university. Graduates who choose to pursue a career in foreign trade find employment opportunities in a wide range of fields. Graduates who find employment in the private sector support the companies they work for in ensuring that import procedures are carried out in accordance with regulations. They can also work in the supply chain, tracking orders and ensuring timely delivery of goods. Furthermore, they are involved in preparing necessary documents for both import and export, clearing goods through customs, and organizing shipments. Knowledge of foreign exchange regulations provides them with valuable experience in the areas of payment transfer for imports and payment collection for exports. Since foreign trade encompasses international trade, proficiency in foreign languages is crucial for graduates. Knowledge of customs regulations and the ability to keep up-to-date with changing legislation is also advantageous for those wishing to pursue a career in this field. Foreign language skills are also extremely beneficial for those who want to advance their careers in this area.
Graduates of the associate degree program in foreign trade can get employed in both the private and public sectors. In the private sector, they can work in the foreign trade departments of companies, and thanks to the courses they take during their education, they can also work in banks. In addition, international logistics companies and customs brokerage firms are among the sectors where graduates of this program can work. Graduates of the Master's program in Foreign Trade can find employment in institutions such as the Ministry of Finance and the Undersecretariat of Customs. Graduates can also establish their own companies and operate in the import and export sectors. Salaries in foreign trade vary depending on the sector, the company's field of activity, and the organizational structure. However, having experience in this field and obtaining relevant certifications through training provides an advantage in the recruitment process. Graduates of this program can find job postings for foreign trade positions on Kariyer.net.