Internal Security

"Internal Security is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program offered by the University of Warsaw, designed to prepare students for careers in public safety, crisis management, and national security. This program provides a thorough understanding of the key concepts, legal frameworks, and practical skills necessary to address contemporary security challenges faced by individuals, organizations, and state institutions. Students will explore areas such as crisis and emergency management, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, police operations, and international security cooperation. The curriculum combines theoretical modules with practical training, including simulation exercises and internships, enabling graduates to effectively respond to various security threats and manage risks in diverse environments. Emphasizing critical thinking, ethical considerations, and interdisciplinary approaches, the program aims to develop professionals capable of making informed decisions in complex situations. Graduates of the Internal Security program will be equipped to work in law enforcement agencies, security services, governmental institutions, private security firms, and international organizations. The program fosters active engagement with current security issues through seminars, expert lectures, and collaborative projects with practice partners. With its strong academic foundation and practical orientation, the program prepares students for dynamic and rewarding careers in security and internal affairs, contributing to the safety and stability of society at local, national, and international levels."

The Ist year

• Theory of security
• International security
• Contemporary terrorism
• Psychology of emergency situations
• Reinventing urban democracy/ smart cities
• Military security
• Optional subject
• Introduction to critical methods in security studies
• Intermestic security
• Human security and human rights
• Introduction to criminology
• Civil protection and defence
• Emergency management
• General University subject

The IInd year

• Policing and community safety
• International and domestic conflicts
• Democratic states’ security systems
• Justice and home affairs
• Financial crime and security
• Energy security
• Diploma seminar
• Cyber security and cyberspace
• White collar crime
• Counterterrorism strategies
• Strategic intelligence analysis
• Negotiation skills

Required documents:

• High school diploma or IB or EB (copy certified by the University of Warsaw);
• Bachelor’s or Master’s diploma (copy certified by the University of Warsaw) in any area of studies;

      and, in case of foreign diplomas:

1. document in form of legalization or so called Apostille if a diploma was issued by the institution operating in the educational system of the state being side of the Hague convention from 5 October 1961;
2. sworn translation into Polish of the diplomas and the aforementioned document (if it was issued in the foreign language);
3. document of recognition of Bachelor’s or Master’s diploma in Poland – so called nostryfikacja (if needed)

• Application form – printout  from the Internet Registration of Candidates – IRK;
• Application for the Electronic Student ID (ELS) - printout  from the Internet Registration of Candidates – IRK, together with the application form (after photo uploading);
• Application form of the Institute of Political Science;
• Copy of ID that was the basis for the IRK registration;
• Four ID photographs of the candidate;
• Written commitment to regular payment of tuition fees;
• Receipt of the administration fee in case of payment abroad (foreign candidates);
• Health certificate that confirms the ability of a candidate to study within the program, with translation if it was not issued in Polish (foreign candidates);
• Photocopy of the document confirming legalization of a candidate's residence in the territory of Poland (foreign candidates);
• Certificate confirming the knowledge of English at least at B2 level (the certificate confirming the knowledge of the English language at least B2 level, the English language grade on the diploma supplement) - the candidate without a certificate must submit an essay in English about issues relating to security (the formal requirements: 5-7 pages, Word Document, font Times New Roman 12, line spacing 1,5, margins 2.5 cm); the candidates, whose mother tongue is English or whose previous education was conducted in English, don’t need to submit language certificates.

Candidates will be admitted on the basis of the documents submitted until all places have been filled.

When the number of applications exceeds the limit of students, the additional procedure will start.

Candidates will prepare the essay in English on security issues which are sent by e-mail or post (formal requirements: 5-7 pages, Word Document, font 12, line spacing – 1,5, margins 2.5 cm).

The essay will test the English language skills and the general knowledge of subjects included in the programme of studies, as well as scientific skills.

 A candidate can obtain 30 points maximum as a result of assessment of the following issues:

• English language skills – 0-10 points
• correctness of argumentation, hypotheses formulation and conclusion drawing – 0-10 points
• knowledge of the discussed issues – 0-10 points.

An additonal a fee of 200 Euro is required as part of the first year tution fee.

Foreigners can study at BA, MA / MSc / LLM, MBA, PhD level on various financial terms:

1. as the Republic of Poland or foreign governments grant holders (check also: Ministry of Science and Higher Education)
2. as the University of Warsaw grant holders (e.g. as exchange students on the basis of bilateral agreements)
3. as students of Erasmus partner institutions/ Erasmus Mundus External Cooperation Window institutions (with a scholarship)

The Master's degree program in Internal Security at the University of Warsaw offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in homeland security, law enforcement, and related fields. The program focuses on both theoretical and practical aspects of security, covering topics such as crisis management, counter-terrorism, security policy, and risk assessment. Students gain a deep understanding of security threats, legislative frameworks, and emergency response strategies, equipping them with the skills necessary to analyze and respond to complex security challenges.

The program emphasizes multidisciplinary learning, integrating legal, political, social, and technological perspectives to address modern security issues effectively. Students are involved in case studies, simulation exercises, and fieldwork that foster practical skills and strategic thinking. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and academics from relevant fields, providing students with mentorship and insights into current security practices and policy developments.

Graduates of the Internal Security programme are prepared for employment in various sectors, including governmental agencies, private security firms, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations dedicated to security and safety. The program encourages the development of critical analysis and decision-making abilities, which are crucial in high-pressure security environments. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in internships, workshops, and conference events to expand their professional networks and gain real-world experience.

The program is designed to be flexible, often offering part-time and full-time options to accommodate working professionals. Courses are delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical exercises, ensuring a balanced and engaging learning experience. Upon graduation, students receive a Master’s degree in Internal Security, which is recognized across Poland and internationally, facilitating career advancement and further academic pursuits. The University of Warsaw’s reputation for academic excellence and its extensive network of security-related research centers make it an ideal place for students seeking to contribute to public safety, crime prevention, and national security initiatives.