Programme description

In the German Philology programme, you will gain an in-depth understanding of the German language, literature, and the historical and cultural development of German-speaking countries. Graduates complete their studies with German language proficiency at the C1 level (for a Bachelor's degree) and C2 level (for a Master's degree). Additionally, you will acquire a broad knowledge of the humanities.

NEW! Starting in the 2025/2026 academic year, we are introducing a German language learning track for beginners! This means that applicants with no prior knowledge of German will undergo two years of intensive language learning while taking core subjects in Polish. In the third year, students will join advanced language groups!

The programme consists of both compulsory and elective courses. At the Master's level, one of the required courses includes a second Germanic language. The elective courses cover linguistics and literary studies, as well as various topics within the humanities. Students also have the opportunity to pursue a five-year teacher training track or, at the Master's level, a two-year translation programme.

As German Philology graduates say: "After finishing your studies at the Jagiellonian University, you will regret that the wonderful student years—along with the many sleepless nights in this unique city, not necessarily spent studying—have come to an end."

Information regarding Faculty

Although it appeared in the structure of the Jagiellonian University in 1951, the Faculty of Philology offers programmes (fields of research) that have existed for a long time and which tradition goes back one, two, or even five centuries. The Faculty offers over 20 philologies but teaches as many as 50 languages! It has the A scientific category awarded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, programmes conducted at the Faculty lead in the Ranking of Study Programmes prepared by the ‘Perspektywy’ Education Foundation, talented Faculty students join the group of winners of the prestigious Diamond Grant programme.

Studies at the Faculty of Philology have enjoyed enduring popularity for years, allowing graduates to work, among others, as translators, editors in publishing houses, teachers in schools, journalists, or employees of diplomatic or special services. Internships and paid internships offered by companies cooperating with the Faculty and vocational courses and certified training, available to all interested students, can help smooth entry into the labour market. Studies at the Faculty of Philology also include classes in small groups and the opportunity to work in more than 20 research clubs.

The Faculty consists of 8 units. The study programme is conducted by the Institute of Germanic Studies. The main units of the Faculty of Philology are located in the centre of Kraków in the modern complex of buildings Collegium Paderevianum equipped with language laboratories and leisure zones. The library of the Faculty of Philology ensures access to national and worldwide sources of information – it is a modern information centre concerning foreign philologies, history of literature, linguistics, methods of teaching, history, culture, art and translation studies. 

Rankings, distinctions, accreditations

• Scientific category B+ in the main discipline of Linguistics awarded to the Jagiellonian University in Kraków by the decision of the Minister of Education and Science

Curriculum overview

In the programme curriculum, you may find information about the subjects you will attend while studying this programme. The programme indicates which subjects are scheduled for each semester of the studies, which are mandatory, which belong to the group of elective subjects (so-called optional subjects), which of them end with an exam, and which do not. Each subject in such a programme curriculum has its syllabus, which is a description of what students learn within the scope of that subject.

Student’s life

Time spent at the university is not all about education and class participation; it is also an excellent opportunity to develop hobbies and interests. Many research societies and student organizations operate at the Jagiellonian University, including faculty- and university-wide ones. These societies allow students to spend their free time actively, gain knowledge, develop their talents, participate in engaging, unconventional projects, go on research and team-building trips, participate in conferences, and meet fellow students outside the lecture halls. There are more than 20 student associations at the Faculty of Philology, f.e. Students Academic Club of German Philology.

Students interested in the international dimension of studying can participate in a wide variety of exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+, Utrecht Network, bilateral exchange programmes, European university Una Europa, or the domestic mobility programme called MOST.

More than just studies

• Student Government of the Faculty of Philology

From our students

Aleksandra
When I started learning German, I became completely fascinated by the language, and over time, I also developed a plan to study German philology.
Thanks to the numerous opportunities for growth offered by Jagiellonian University, choosing it was an obvious decision for me. Here, I rediscover the language every day and expand my knowledge of the rich culture of German-speaking countries. Each day is full of inspiration and new challenges, which we easily overcome together with other students through collaborative learning. :) Our passionate lecturers show us that studying is not just about learning but also an incredible adventure.
Bis bald!

Danuta
German wasn't love at first sight for me, but German philology at Jagiellonian University quickly convinced me that it was true love. Studying at this university has given me immense knowledge, and I’ve also met many wonderful and inspiring people who eagerly share their passions and experiences. German philology is not just about learning a language—it also offers a new perspective on the world and oneself while opening doors to many career opportunities beyond being a translator or teacher. And, let’s be honest—now I can understand my German-speaking idols even better, which gives me a lot of satisfaction! Every day, I’m happy with my choice because these studies are an unforgettable and valuable experience for a lifetime! ;)

Kinga
When choosing a university, I followed my heart, and today I know it was the best decision I could have made. The friendly atmosphere, engaging course offerings, and the opportunity to actively participate in various projects are just a few of the many advantages. It’s worth noting that students never feel left on their own, as lecturers are always ready to help and support them. Studying German philology at Jagiellonian University gives me immense satisfaction, allows me to grow, and creates memories that will stay with me forever. It’s the perfect programme for any enthusiast of the German language.

Lena
I can confidently say that German was my first love. The prevailing "Ordnung" and the clarity of its rules unconsciously started shaping my world, slowly becoming an inseparable part of it. Contrary to popular belief, our neighbors' language is not just about the harshly pronounced Schmetterling—it also holds the secrets of the High German consonant shift and offers a literary journey alongside Goethe and Schiller. My studies at Jagiellonian University constantly open new paths for me and broaden my horizons. Choosing German philology did not disappoint me; on the contrary, it reassured me that I am exactly where I should be.

Oliwia
Studying German philology was one of the best decisions I have made. In addition to improving my language skills and exploring the fascinating culture of German-speaking countries, I am also receiving solid training to become a teacher. Our amazing lecturers inspire me to keep developing, and my teaching internships confirm that education is my true passion. I am happy that these studies open up so many career opportunities for me.

Maria
I come from Kołobrzeg, so the German language had always been present in my life – I heard it everywhere from crowds of German tourists, while I myself mainly learnt it at school. For a long time, it was merely a practical tool for me, but everything changed when I began studying German Philology at the Jagiellonian University. It was here that I found the motivation to learn and realised that I wanted to connect my future with this language. Only at university did I truly begin to discover the intricacies of German. The Institute offers the opportunity to learn the language from scratch, and the progress is visible almost immediately. It is not only about developing language competences, but also gaining extensive knowledge about German-speaking countries and taking part in numerous fascinating events that allow you to spread your wings and meet wonderful people. Every day I feel happy about this choice, because it is not only an excellent career path, but also practical language learning and an experience for life.

Norbert
German Philology is a fascinating field for me, allowing me to explore the richness of the German language. I have always been interested in its complex grammatical structures, diverse dialects, and rich literature. Memories of my travels to Austria and Germany, where I had the opportunity to hear the language in its natural environment, reinforced my conviction that I want to deepen my knowledge of it and connect my future with it. I am also fascinated by the history of the German language, its evolution, and its influence on other languages, as well as its culture. Studying German Philology is an opportunity for me to develop my passions and gain knowledge that will enable me to work with the German language professionally in the future.

From our lecturers

Michael Ganser
German at Jagiellonian University? It’s more than just theory! Here, tradition meets modernity, making the studies truly exciting. Our students acquire language skills that are highly valued in the job market—all in a city full of history and tradition. As an Austrian, I love exploring these historical connections and passing them on. But don’t worry, we don’t just focus on the past—thanks to our practical approach, we prepare students for their future. Curious? We warmly invite you to join us!

Admission to studies

Admission to study programmes at the Jagiellonian University is conducted electronically in the Online Application System: irk.uj.edu.pl. If you have any questions related to admission, please contact the Admissions Office directly or visit the websites: welcome.uj.edu.pl and irk.uj.edu.pl.

Detailed information about admission to this study programme, including information on the method of calculating the result, qualification criteria, fees, deadlines, and a list of required documents are available on the Online Application System (IRK): irk.uj.edu.pl

Transfer from other university or study programme

Transfer from another university, including a foreign one, or change of study programme within the University is possible with the dean's consent after completing the first year of studies and fulfilling additional requirements established by the Faculty Council. For inquiries regarding transfer, please contact the unit responsible for the specific study programme directly.

Graduates

Graduates of German Philology can be employed in positions requiring an advanced knowledge of the German-speaking area in various, mostly cultural, institutions, editing offices, publishing houses, in economic and political institutions, as a translator or language assistant in the sector of culture and media, in companies and institutions, as well as in the position of German teacher in primary and secondary schools and in other educational institutions.

Second-cycle programme graduates are experts in German-speaking cultural area matters in various institutions, mostly cultural, economic and political ones and in widely understood sector of culture and media. They can be employed as translators of specialist texts, and upon passing the state exam – as sworn translators, German teachers in primary and secondary schools, lecturers in higher education institutions, and upon completion of the educational process in a doctoral school – as researcher or research and educational employee.

Further education possibilities

• Doctoral School, f.e. Doctoral School in the Humanities
• Post diploma programmes
• Second-cycle programmes

Offer for school

The following events are conducted in Polish – to find out about the offer for English-speaking audience, please get in touch with the organizer directly. Additionally, due to the current pandemic, some faculty and university events may be canceled or conducted in a form other than that described below.

We invite all schools to take part in the cycle of meetings "University Closer to You – visits to the Jagiellonian University". The aim of the meetings during the tours is to familiarize students with the history of our University through a rich educational offer (lectures, workshops, laboratory classes, etc.). The current programme of the event is available on the organizer's website – the Centre for Communications and Marketing of the Jagiellonian University.

The Jagiellonian Library offers tours of both the old and new parts of the building. The tour programme includes presentations on the history of the Library and the building itself, as well as a visit to the Department of Depositories. The offer of the Collegium Maius includes lessons on "The Trail of Science" and "The Trail of History and Art," as well as interactive online classes. We also invite you to explore the educational offer of the Botanical Garden, the Nature Education Centre, the Confucius Institute, and the Museum of Anatomy.

Contact

The study programme is conducted at the Institute of Germanic and Nordic Studies, a unit of the Faculty of Philology. The Institute is located close to the historic centre of Kraków, the Jagiellonian Library, Jordan Park, and Błonia Park. For more information, please contact:

anna.demkiewicz@uj.edu.pl, filolog@uj.edu.pl

al. Mickiewicza 9A
31-120 Kraków, Poland
Phone: (+48) 12 663 43 05, 663 43 11

ifg.filg.uj.edu.pl
filg.uj.edu.pl

Other programmes that may interest you

• German Philology with English (Faculty of Philology) – programme in Polish
• English Studies with German (Faculty of Philology) – programme in Polish
• Swedish Philology (Faculty of Philology) – programme in Polish