Founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great, Jagiellonian University is the oldest university in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe. It is located in Kraków and is named after its founder, polish king Jagiełło. The university has an excellent reputation and ranks among the best Polish universities. It offers a wide range of courses at all levels from undergraduate to postgraduate, including medical studies.
The Jagiellonian University was founded as a studium generale on 12 May 1364 by King Casimir III the Great. It was one of Europe’s earliest institutions of higher learning accessible to all social classes. The school initially had three faculties: philosophy, medicine, and law; however, later it would add theology (in 1401), canon law (in 1454), Ruthenian studies (in 1491), and fine arts (in 1579).
During the Renaissance period, most significantly between 1500-1600, the number of students attending the Jagiellonian University expanded rapidly due to both an increase in interest in education during that time as well as support from various rulers such as Władysław II Jagiełło who greatly promoted its development.. Many notable individuals became alumni or professors at Jagiellonian University over its history including Nicolaus Copernicus who studied astronomy there from 1491-1495 before going on to develop his heliocentric theory which challenged traditional views about Earth’s place in the universe; Pope John Paul II who attended from 1938-1939 prior to his ordination into Catholic priesthood; Maria Skłodowska-Curie whose research led to groundbreaking discoveries about radioactivity which earned her two Nobel prizes; and Wisława Szymborska who won a Nobel prize for literature in 1996.
Today, Jagiellonian University comprises fifteen faculties offering over eighty fields of study ranging from Polish philology to astrophysics. Located within walking distance of Krakow’s historic Old Town district filled with numerous restaurants and cafes, students have plenty of opportunity for socializing and enjoying life outside of academics. The university also has strong international ties with over four hundred cooperation agreement partners worldwide ensuring ample opportunities for students interested in studying abroad.