Turkish is a member of the Turkic language family, originating in Central Asia and now spoken across parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Since 1928, it has been written in the Latin script, and Modern Turkish is the official language of Türkiye. In North America, Turkish is considered a less commonly taught language, typically offered in small, interactive classes. It is also designated as a critical language by the U.S. Department of State.
At Duke, the Turkish Program is part of a consortium with the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University. As a result, courses are delivered in a hybrid format, meeting synchronously online via video conferencing platforms.
Studying Turkish opens doors to diverse opportunities in fields such as history, international relations, policy, business, science, technology, and journalism. As the language of the former Ottoman Empire, Turkish plays a vital role in understanding the historical and cultural dynamics of the Middle East.
The Duke Turkish Program offers three years of language instruction—Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced levels—as well as opportunities for independent study in both Modern and Ottoman Turkish. Students can also explore a rich array of courses on the history, literature, and culture of Turkish-speaking regions.
For more information, please contact Dr. Didem Havlioglu.
Turkish language courses at Duke follow a sequential structure. If you have prior knowledge of Turkish, please contact the faculty to schedule a placement exam.
All courses are offered in a hybrid format, blending in-person and synchronous online instruction. Each course is designed to develop core language skills—grammar, listening, speaking, and writing—while integrating cultural content. Instruction is based on communicative, task-based methods, and most assessments are performance-based.
TURK 101 – Elementary Turkish I
An introduction to the Turkish language and contemporary daily life in Türkiye. This course focuses on foundational grammar, vocabulary, and conversational skills. No prior knowledge of Turkish is required.
TURK 102 – Elementary Turkish II
A continuation of TURK 101, this course deepens students' understanding of basic structures and vocabulary while further exploring daily culture in Türkiye. Prerequisite: TURK 101, equivalent experience, or placement exam.
TURK 203 – Intermediate Turkish I
The first course in the Intermediate sequence. Builds on basic proficiency to introduce more complex grammatical structures and expand cultural knowledge. Prerequisite: TURK 102, equivalent experience, or placement exam.
TURK 204 – Intermediate Turkish II
The second course in the Intermediate sequence. Focuses on advancing communication and comprehension through more sophisticated language use and broader cultural contexts. Prerequisite: TURK 203, equivalent experience, or placement exam.
TURK 305 – Turkish Popular Culture (Advanced I)
An advanced-level course that critically explores Turkish popular culture from the 1980s to the present through media, literature, cinema, and television. Conducted entirely in Turkish, the course strengthens advanced language skills through discussion, analytical writing, and engagement with authentic materials. Prerequisite: TURK 204, equivalent experience, or placement exam.
TURK 306 – The Turkish Table: Food Systems, Sustainability, and Culture (Advanced II)
An advanced Turkish course examining Türkiye’s culinary heritage, with emphasis on regional diversity, historical influences, and cultural identity. Students explore how food reflects Türkiye’s multicultural legacy through readings, discussions, and hands-on activities. Prerequisite: TURK 204, equivalent experience, or placement exam. (TURK 305 is not required before enrolling.)
Placement in a Turkish language class follows the AMES department placement policy.
These guidelines are intended to acquaint you with the levels of Turkish classes offered at AMES. It will help you chose the right course for your initial enrollment. This self-placement test has to be confirmed and corrected by a formal placement assessment. The official placement will have to be conducted by the instructor. Contact the coordinator Erdağ Göknar, goknar@duke.edu or the instructor Didem Havlioğlu, didem.havli@duke.edu.
Self-Assessment Guidelines
Find the statement that best describes your experience in Turkish, and follow the instructions.
I have never studied Turkish.
- Enroll in TURKISH 101 (Elementary Turkish)
Turkish is spoken in my family. I cannot understand most of what they say.
- Enroll in TURKISH 101 (Elementary Turkish)
I had studied Turkish a few years ago. I cannot remember most of it.
- Enroll in TURKISH 101 (Elementary Turkish)
Turkish is spoken in my family. I can communicate in daily language.
- Enroll in TURKISH 102 (Elementary Turkish)
I studied Turkish for one semester in Turkey.
- Enroll in TURKISH 102 (Elementary Turkish) or TURKISH 203 (Intermediate Turkish)
I studied Turkish for one year in Turkey. I can communicate on basic level and write basic passages about weather, location, personal information.
- Enroll in TURKISH 204 (Intermediate Turkish) or above
I studied Turkish for more than a year.
- Enroll in TURKISH 301 and above
The Duke Turkish Program connects students, scholars, and members of the Triangle community who share an interest in Turkish culture. We host a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, film screenings, and informal gatherings. If you would like to join our mailing list and stay informed about upcoming events, please contact Dr. Didem Havlioglu.
Turkish Language Program Coordinator
Turkish Program Faculty
- Erdag Goknar, Associate Professor
- Didem Havlioglu, Associate Professor of the Practice