Study Abroad

There are two separate Polish study abroad programs, one during the semester and one during the summer.

Semester Abroad

This program takes place at , which was founded in 1364, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe. Located in ancient Krakow, Poland, Jagiellonian University offers foreigners a unique opportunity not only to study Polish language, culture, and society, but also to experience over 600 years of its history, magnificent architecture, and art.

Jagiellonian is Europe's leading school of astronomy, mathematics, and geography. The university has always attracted many students from other countries, and among its most distinguished local students are Copernicus and Pope John Paul II.

Courses for international students are taught in English and include Polish language, history, Judaic studies, literature, political science, sociology, and science.

This program is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, all of whom are eligible to apply for the center’s scholarship to help cover program and travel costs.

Summer Abroad in Kraków, Poland

July 1-20, 2024 (arriving June 30)

Program Cost and Financial Aid

The program fee of $6600 includes:

  • 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ tuition (6 credits)
  • Housing
  • Two meals per day
  • Orientation
  • Most cultural activities
  • Course-related study trips

The fee does not cover airfare from the United States to Kraków, elective travel unrelated to the program, health insurance or personal expenses. The Skalny Center for Polish and Central European Studies has generous scholarships available towards the cost of the program.

Classes, Credits, Clusters, and Certificates

The three-week program is offered through the Jagiellonian University School of Polish Language and Culture. Students meet every weekday.

Students take a Polish Language course (beginning to advanced level), and a History of Poland course.

The program carries a total of six credits. Courses count towards the Polish Language cluster and the Certificate of Concentration in Polish and Central European Studies.

Course Descriptions

POLS 157 Polish in Poland
8:30 a.m. – noon

A multi-level course designed to introduce students to the Polish language or to improve the knowledge of Polish they already possess. Classes held in the city space, in museums and galleries, in places loved by inhabitants of Kraków, as well as tourists.

HIST 137A History of Poland
2:30 – 4:15 p.m.

Jan Lencznarowicz, PhD (The Institute of American Studies, Jagiellonian University and visiting professor, 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ Department of History, 2004 and 2013)

A survey of Polish history from the Piast dynasty through the period of Jagiellonian rule, the time of the elected kings, 123 years of partitioned Poland, the 1920's and 1930's, World War II, the creation and functioning of the People's Republic, the collapse of the communist system.

Seminar—Poland in New Europe

Radosław Rybkowski, PhD (The Institute of American Studies, Jagiellonian University and visiting professor, 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ Department of Political Science, 2005 and 2008)

The five-day long seminar provides an introduction to Poland's most recent history, from the collapse of the Communist regime until the present. Political and social changes in Poland after the rise of an independent, democratic state in 1989 will be placed in a broader context of regional development.

Weekend and Evening Cultural Program

Kraków exceptionally rich cultural life provides opportunities to experience films, theater, performances and concerts, and visits to galleries and museums.

The program includes:

  • Sightseeing tours of:
    • Jagiellonian University Museum in Collegium Maius
    • Kraków’s Old Town with the Kazimierz district
    • Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory
  • Trips to:
    • Salt Mine in Wieliczka
    • Tatra Mountains
    • Resort city of Zakopane

Accommodations and Meals

Students live in suites in a dormitory in double or single rooms, fully equipped with towels and bedding. The number of single rooms is limited, and cost extra; the additional cost is covered by the student.

Accommodation in such rooms is possible upon prior reservation, made on an application form (on a first-come, first-served basis). There is no guarantee that a single room is available. Meals are served two times a day in the students’ cafeteria. Special dietary arrangements are possible for vegetarians. No strict elimination diets (post-surgery, celiac disease, low-gluten, low-sodium, etc. and vegan) can be offered.

How to Apply

Please submit the completed application form (.doc) and supporting materials to the Skalny Center for Polish and Central European Studies, 101 Harkness Hall, RC Box 270147, 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳, 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳, NY 14627 or by email at bozenna.sobolewska@rochester.edu.

The deadline for application is April 15, 2024.