Cracow University of Economics

The University and its campus. Cracow University of Economics, founded in 1925, is the largest school of economics in Poland and the third biggest university in Krakow, which is the main Polish academic center. The number of students currently enrolled at the University exceeds 21 000. Cracow University of Economics, located in the very centre of the city, boasts an impressive infrastructure. The University campus occupies 7 hectares of land and its facilities include both modern and historic buildings. University campus is located in the vicinity of historical medieval Old Town of Krakow and is easily accessible both on foot and by public transportation. There is a large sports and teaching complex composed of two buildings with an in-door swimming pool, a full-sized gym, a fitness room and large conference rooms. Students have access to modern lecture rooms, the library, laboratories, computer rooms and sport facilities.

The University is also concerned about the comfort of its disabled students - all the campus facilities are equipped with wheelchair ramps or lifts for the physically disabled as well as specially adjusted lavatories.

Student life and services. Many different organizations and student associations are active at the University. These include the Student Government, the Independent Students Association, AIESEC (International Association of Economics and Commerce Students), ESN (Erasmus Student Network), SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise), the University Club of the Academic Sport Association, Dominanta Choir and many more. Cracow University of Economics gives priority to sports at its campus. Students have access to a large sports gym, swimming-pool, tennis courts and a sports field. The Academic Sports Union (AZS) offers a number of sports sections including popular team games – football, volleyball or basketball, as well as some „exotic” ones.

The Academic Career Center (ACK) operating at the University organizes workshops and training sessions for CUE students and graduates, conducted by ACK workers and experts from different industries. The Cracow University of Economics, together with the best Polish employers, also conducts training programs - Business Academies.

Interests of all students are represented by the Students' Parliament, which organizes integration events for students, charity events and other projects, making CUE's student life more diversified.

International cooperation. The University has a number of international contacts. Presently, it has over 250 partners across the world and cooperates with universities and various organizations from Europe, both Americas, Australia and Asia. It offers exchange programs through Erasmus+, CEEPUS, EMBS, Double Diploma, STEP, VELUX, JOSZEF, Master of Public Administration – GVSU or bilateral agreements. CUE offers study programs in English on bachelor, master and PhD level. CUE is a member of many networks and associations such as EUA (European University Association), NIBES (Network of International Business and Economic Schools), EMBS (European Master of Business Studies), UNECC (University Network of the European Capitals of Culture), Alexander von Humboldt Association.

The university opened its doors on October 1, 1925 as College of Commerce (Wyższe Studium Handlowe).

On 6 November 1939, as a part of Sonderaktion Krakau operation, the Nazis arrested professors of Cracow universities who later were executed or sent to concentration camps. Among them were four professors of the academy: Arnold Bolland, Zygmunt Sarna, Walenty Winid and Albin Żabiński, as well as many professors of other universities who were running some classes at the academy. Two buildings of the school were seized, and numerous library books and documents were lost. Classes continued surreptitiously throughout the war, until the school was able to reopen in 1945. The school was nationalized in 1950 and renamed as Higher School of Economics (Wyższa Szkoła Ekonomiczna).

In 1974 it was renamed again, as Kraków Academy of Economics (Akademia Ekonomiczna w Krakowie). In 2007 it received its current name: Cracow University of Economics (Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny w Krakowie).

Application requirements and admission process at Cracow University of Economics (Poland):

Prospective students interested in studying at Cracow University of Economics must first select the program they wish to enroll in. The university offers a range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, primarily in economics, management, finance, accounting, and related fields. To apply, candidates need to complete the online application form available on the university's official website and submit the necessary documents within specified deadlines. These documents typically include a valid secondary school certificate or diploma for undergraduate programs, a bachelor's degree diploma for master's programs, transcripts of academic records, proof of language proficiency (such as English or Polish language certificates, depending on the program language), passport or national identity card, and a completed application form. For international students, additional requirements may include a visa, health insurance, and sometimes an interview or entrance exam, depending on the program and country of origin.

In the case of non-native speakers applying to programs taught in Polish, proof of proficiency in Polish (such as the certyfikat znajomości języka polskiego) is necessary. For programs taught in English, proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, is generally required. The admissions process also considers previously achieved academic results, motivation letters, and sometimes references.

Applicants must meet specific entry requirements related to academic achievements and language skills. Once the application and required documents are submitted and verified, candidates are usually invited for an interview or further assessments if required by the program. Admission decisions are made based on a combination of academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other criteria specified for each program.

International students are advised to start the application process early to ensure compliance with all deadlines and to prepare for visa and accommodation arrangements. Successful candidates receive an admission offer, after which they proceed with enrollment formalities. The university also provides support services for new students, including orientation programs, housing assistance, and integration activities to facilitate their adaptation to university life in Poland.

Please note that specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the program and the applicant's country of origin. Applicants are encouraged to consult the official Cracow University of Economics admissions webpage for detailed and updated information.

Accreditation at Cracow University of Economics (Poland) is a rigorous process that assures the university’s adherence to high educational standards and quality assurance. The university is accredited by the Polish Accreditation Committee (PKA), which is the statutory authority responsible for evaluating higher education institutions in Poland. This accreditation process involves comprehensive assessments of the university’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, research activities, student support services, and overall institutional management. Cracow University of Economics has consistently maintained accreditation status, demonstrating its commitment to providing high-quality education aligned with national and European standards. Additionally, the university is recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science of Poland, which ensures that its academic programs are recognized for further education and employment purposes within Poland and across Europe. The university also participates in various international quality assurance systems and has obtained accreditations from international bodies to strengthen its global standing. These include certifications and recognitions that validate the quality of its degree programs, research initiatives, and student exchange programs. The accreditation process at Cracow University of Economics is ongoing, with periodic reviews and evaluations to maintain and improve standards. These evaluations ensure that the university remains current with the latest developments in higher education, adapting its curricula and teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of students and the job market. The university's commitment to quality assurance and accreditation underscores its dedication to providing a top-tier educational experience, fostering research excellence, and preparing students for successful careers in economics, management, finance, and related fields. Through continuous improvement and adherence to rigorous accreditation standards, Cracow University of Economics strives to uphold its reputation as one of Poland's leading institutions for economic education.

There are about 20,000 students (full- and part-time). The university offers 13 majors and 38 specializations within the majors taught in the Polish language. CUE offers also studies in the English language. The university offers plenty of postgraduate courses and studies as well as MBA programs in cooperation with foreign universities.

The studies in the Polish language are realized on the following majors:

• economics (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• administration (B.A.)
• public management and administration (B.A.)
• international relations (B.A., M.A.)
• international economics (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• management (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• management and production engineering (B.Sc)
• commodity science (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• European studies (B.A.)
• finance and accountancy (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• spatial management (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• tourism and recreation (B.A.)
• IT studies and econometrics (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• marketing and market communication (B.Sc., M.Sc.)

Studies in the English language are realized on the following majors:

• international business (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• corporate finance and accountancy (B.Sc., M.Sc.)
• public management and administration (M.A.)

Kraków University of Economics offers also PhD studies in the following disciplines:

• in Polish: economics, management, commodity science
• in German: economics, management

Research and teaching infrastructure. The University’s research and teaching infrastructure includes: IT Center with Computer labs, e-learning and Virtual Science Center, Main Library, University Publishing House and Printing Center.

Study levels. Cracow University of Economics (CUE) offers programs for all levels of study, both in Polish and English: full-time and part-time 3-year Bachelor studies, 2-year Master studies and 3-year Doctorate studies. In addition, CUE offers various study opportunities at the post diploma level, designed for candidates who already hold a university degree, but wish to further develop their professional qualifications.

• 21 majors in Polish
• 6 programs in English
• 9 student exchange programs

Cracow University of Economics (CUE) is one of the leading economic universities in Poland, with a rich history dating back to 1925. It offers a diverse range of study programs at undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and postgraduate levels, ensuring students can find courses that match their academic and professional aspirations. CUE is renowned for its high-quality education, distinguished faculty, and strong emphasis on practical skills, preparing students to excel in the global economy. The university collaborates with numerous international partner institutions, providing students with opportunities for exchanges, internships, and joint research projects, which enhance their global perspective and employability. CUE's modern campus facilities, extensive library resources, and innovative teaching methods create a conducive learning environment. The university also focuses on research, contributing to the development of economic sciences and policy. Its location in Kraków, a historic and vibrant city, offers students a unique cultural experience and a dynamic social life. Graduates of CUE are highly regarded by employers both in Poland and abroad, thanks to the university's strong connections with the business community. Additionally, the university promotes entrepreneurship and innovation through various projects and startup support programs. Choosing CUE means joining a prestigious institution committed to academic excellence, practical training, and fostering the personal and professional growth of its students.