Higher education system in Poland

Poland has two million students enrolled in over 400 higher education institutions. Since its foundation, Poland has served as the geographical and cultural crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe.

Types of higher education institutions

There are two main categories of higher education institutions in Poland:

• University-type institutions

These institutions offer studies in the humanities, sciences, medical sciences, economics, pedagogy, the arts, and military studies;

• Professional higher education institutions

These institutions educate students in specific professional areas and prepare them for practicing a profession.

Levels of education

Poland has the following degree structure:

• Professional degree of licentiate or engineer (Bachelor)

professional higher studies (3-4 years)

• Professional master’s degree [magister] or an equivalent degree (Master)

master’s studies (5-6 years)

• Professional master’s degree or an equivalent degree (PhD)

postgraduate master’s studies (2-2.5 years)

• Doctorate degree

Doctoral studies (3-4 years)

Overview degree structure