The Pontifical University of John Paul II in Kraków (UPJPII) (formerly the Pontifical Academy of Theology in Kraków) has continued the traditions of the Jagiellonian University's Faculty of Theology, meritorious for culture, the nation and the Church in Poland. UPJPII university continues this legacy of centuries under the protection of Saint John of Kanty (Cantius), Saint Jadwiga the Queen (Hedwig) and Saint Joseph Sebastian Pelczar.

The Pontifical University of John Paul II in Kraków is an ecclesiastical university financed on a public university basis.

• Philosophy,
• History and Cultural Heritage,
• Communication Sciences,
• Social Sciences,
• Canon Law,
• Theology
• and its branch the Theology Section in Tarnów.

As a result of the 2017–2021 evaluation, the University received academic categories for the following disciplines: Theological Studies A, Philosophy A, Canon Law A, History B+, Social Communication and Media Studies B+, Art Studies B+, Sociological Studies B+.

The Pontifical University of John Paul II in Kraków (UPJPII) is a renowned institution with deep roots and a modern approach to education. We offer a wide range of first- and second-cycle degree programs, as well as single-cycle master's programs, enabling our students to develop the skills necessary for their future careers.

UPJPII offers studies such as Archival Studies, Records Management and Infobrokering, Journalism and Social Communication, Church Music, History and Family Studies and many, many more. Particularly attractive fields of study are Digital Media – Creativity, Analysis, Management and Tourism and Heritage Management offering students the opportunity to choose specializations such as network analytics, digital business management, or tangible and intangible heritage management. Such studies are ideal for those interested in cutting-edge technology, creativity, management and tourism.

If you are looking for an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and skills, second degree studies at UPJPII are for you. We offer majors such as Promotional and Image Communication - Advertising, Branding, Public Relations, Philosophy, History of Art, Social Work and Pedagogy. We also train in Specialist Journalism and Media Studies. In the second degree program in Philosophy you can choose to specialize in Applied Ethics, Philosophy in science or Philosophy and Christianity. In the program Social Work you can choose to specialize in Organization of social services and local community or Social work in relation to social crises.

If your goal is to earn a master's degree without having to complete two stages of study, a single-cycle master's program is a good choice. We offer studies in Canon Law, Psychology and Theology, with various specialization options.

If you would like to study in an international environment, choose to study in English at UPJPII. We offer a specialization in Communication and Media Studies. Masters students can also choose specialization: Philosophy, Ethics and Religion.

By choosing UPJPII, you are selecting studies at a recognized university that will allow you not only to acquire sound theoretical knowledge, but also to develop the practical skills necessary in the labor market. Our cutting-edge curriculum, based on the latest research and trends, will prepare you to work in a rapidly changing world.

Regardless of your chosen field of study, you have access to a wide range of additional development opportunities. You can take part in innovative projects, get involved in student research clubs or gain experience during internships and work placements.

Our university is not only a place of learning, but also a true cultural center that offers many attractions after lectures and classes. Through a variety of artistic events, meetings with interesting guests or participation in the activities of student organizations, you can develop your passions and interests.

What's more, UPJPII is part of an international academic community, which gives you the opportunity to take part in student exchanges, scholarships abroad, and allows you to make international contacts that may prove invaluable in your future career.

When considering where to study, remember that the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Kraków is not only a renowned university with excellent academic staff, which is now constructing a unique teaching facility on John Paul II Campus, but it is also a place that will allow you to develop your passions, skills, and interests. We invite you to apply for our study programs – with us, your future career success is within reach!

If you would like to learn more about the full range of bachelor's and master's degree programs, as well as uniform master's degree programs, please visit our website: 2025/2026 Admissions. We also offer interesting Postgraduate Studies Programs.

• 2941 students and doctoral students, including: 
• 2336 full-time students, 
• 232 part-time students, 
• 322 postgraduate students, 
• 51 students at the doctoral school, 
• 426 employees, including: 
  • 33 full professors, 
  • 78 independent employees (e.g. university professors, ThD, PhD, Habilitatus), 
  • 129 employees with a Doctoral Degree, 
  • 45 employees with a Master's Degree 
• 285 academic staff: 
• 141 non-academic employees (services staff, administration, librarians). 

(as at 31 December 2024)

Prepared by Sebastian Graniczkowski
3rd year BA History student