About Kazimierz Wielki University

Kazimierz Wielki University (UKW) is a comprehensive university in Bydgoszcz with more than 50 years of academic tradition. Founded as a teacher-training institution in 1969, it has developed into one of the leading universities in the region, combining education and research with international cooperation, modern facilities and an active academic community.

From a teacher-training college to a comprehensive university

Kazimierz Wielki University—Uniwersytet Kazimierza Wielkiego w Bydgoszczy in Polish—was officially established on 1 September 2005. Its history, however, dates back to 1969, when the Teachers’ Training College was founded in Bydgoszcz.

The institution developed through several important stages:

1969–1974 – Teachers’ Training College: the institution consisted of three faculties: Humanities, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and Pedagogy.

1974–2000 – Higher Pedagogical School: during this period, the institution expanded its academic offer and obtained the right to provide Master’s degree programmes.

2000–2005 – Kazimierz Wielki Academy: the Academy continued to broaden its teaching and research activities beyond its original focus on teacher education.

Since 2005 – Kazimierz Wielki University: the institution gained university status and adopted its present name.

Today, UKW is the largest university in Bydgoszcz and one of the major higher education institutions in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian region. It is also one of Poland’s youngest comprehensive universities.

A broad academic offer

The University’s academic profile extends far beyond its original teacher-training mission. UKW provides education and conducts research in the humanities, languages, social sciences, education, psychology, law, economics, political science, biology, environmental sciences, computer science, physical education, health sciences, music and the arts.

This diversity allows students to explore subjects across traditional academic boundaries. It also creates opportunities for interdisciplinary cooperation between researchers and students representing different fields.

International and Erasmus+ students can choose from a wide selection of courses taught in English. The offer includes subjects such as bioinformatics, biochemistry, hydroecology, psychology, political science, international relations, linguistics, literature, law, economics, computer science, music and education.

As course availability may change between semesters, students should consult the current course catalogue before preparing their Learning Agreement.

Research with an international perspective

Research at UKW covers both fundamental questions and contemporary social, technological and environmental challenges. University researchers participate in national and international projects, publish their findings and cooperate with academic and non-academic partners.

International initiatives have addressed subjects such as:

  • clinical communication and patient education;
  • environmental protection and biodiversity;
  • sustainable development and green finance;
  • digital transformation;
  • social entrepreneurship;
  • psychology and well-being;
  • education and social change;
  • language, literature and intercultural communication.

UKW also organises Blended Intensive Programmes, which combine online learning with short periods of study in Bydgoszcz. These interdisciplinary programmes bring together students and lecturers from partner universities to work on practical challenges and exchange international perspectives.

A university open to the world

Internationalisation is an important part of the University’s development. UKW participates in European education and research initiatives, applies for international funding and supports the mobility of students, academics and administrative staff.

Through the Erasmus+ programme, the University cooperates with more than 100 higher education institutions in EU and non-EU countries. These partnerships provide opportunities for study and staff exchanges in over 20 academic disciplines.

The University also develops visiting lectures, joint academic initiatives, cooperation projects and intercultural events. These activities create a space in which students and staff from different countries can exchange knowledge, experience and ideas.

Support for international students

International students receive support before their arrival and throughout their stay in Bydgoszcz. The International Relations Office and departmental Erasmus+ coordinators assist them with the application process, Learning Agreements, course selection and practical aspects of studying at UKW.

Support and integration activities include:

  • a Welcome Week introducing students to the University, Bydgoszcz and Polish culture;
  • the Buddy Programme, which pairs incoming students with UKW students;
  • free Polish language courses;
  • academic assistance from Erasmus+ coordinators;
  • help with organisational and practical matters;
  • language and intercultural workshops;
  • social activities, trips and integration events;
  • access to University sports facilities.

The Buddy Programme gives every incoming Erasmus+ student an opportunity to meet a local student who can help them settle into university life, discover Bydgoszcz and deal with everyday challenges.

The Polish language course for international students includes 30 hours of classes and awards 4 ECTS credits. In addition to practical communication, it introduces elements of Polish culture, pronunciation, vocabulary and everyday language.

Sport and recreation

UKW has its own modern Centre for Physical Education, Culture and Sport at 2 Sportowa Street. Its facilities include:

  • an indoor swimming pool;
  • a full-size sports hall;
  • fitness and martial arts rooms;
  • gyms;
  • a football pitch;
  • tennis courts.

The Centre is used for teaching, training and recreational activities. International students may also use selected University sports facilities during their stay.

The University Botanical Garden

Located close to the main University campus, the UKW Botanical Garden covers approximately 2.3 hectares. It contains collections of native and exotic plants, including an alpine garden, a Japanese garden, a rose avenue, a magnolia avenue and greenhouses with tropical species.

The garden supports teaching and research, particularly in biology and environmental sciences. It is also a quiet green space where students can take a walk, meet friends or relax between classes.

Academic and student life

University life at UKW is not limited to lectures and examinations. Students can participate in academic clubs, cultural projects, sporting activities, workshops, conferences and events organised across the University.

The University community regularly meets during concerts, exhibitions, academic festivals, international events and outdoor initiatives such as the UKW University Picnic. International students are encouraged to join these activities, share their own cultures and become active members of the academic community.

During the semester, the International Relations Office also organises activities such as city games, excursions, cultural meetings, workshops and seasonal celebrations. These events allow incoming students to discover Bydgoszcz and the region while building friendships with students from Poland and other countries.

Studying in Bydgoszcz

UKW is located in Bydgoszcz, a city shaped by the Brda River, historic canals and industrial architecture. The main University buildings are situated within easy reach of the city centre, public transport and student accommodation.

Bydgoszcz offers international students a combination of academic opportunities and a manageable pace of everyday life. Its riverside areas, cultural institutions, parks and student venues provide many possibilities for spending time outside the classroom.

More than an exchange destination

The growing number of incoming students reflects UKW’s increasingly international character. Some students choose to return to Bydgoszcz or continue their education at the University after completing their Erasmus+ mobility.

By combining academic diversity, research, practical support and opportunities for social and cultural integration, UKW aims to offer international students more than a semester abroad. It provides a welcoming community in which they can study, develop new skills, build international relationships and experience life in Poland.