University of Warsaw

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical study with applied skills in policy design, regional development and public administration. Core topics typically include comparative public policy, regional and urban governance, strategic planning, project and programme management, and research methods (quantitative and qualitative).

• Core modules: foundations of public policy and administration, governance and institutional analysis, regional development strategies, public finance and budgeting, legal frameworks for local government.
• Methods and skills: policy analysis techniques, statistics for social sciences, programme evaluation, GIS and spatial analysis applied to regional planning, stakeholder engagement and participatory methods.
• Applied and elective modules: urban policy and housing, sustainable development and environmental policy, European cohesion policy, social policy and welfare systems, project management and fundraising for public initiatives.
• Research component: an independently researched master's thesis or capstone project supervised by academic staff, often drawing on case studies from Warsaw or other Polish and European regions. Practicum or internship options with local authorities, research centres or NGOs are usually available to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in social sciences, economics, law, humanities, geography or a related discipline. Selection typically considers academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae and a personal statement outlining motivations and relevant experience.

• Degree: bachelor's or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Language proficiency: competence in the language of instruction (Polish and/or English) as demonstrated by previous study or an accepted language qualification if required.
• Supporting documents: academic transcript, CV, motivation letter; references or a portfolio of relevant work may strengthen an application.
• Additional requirements: some applicants may be invited for an interview; professional experience in public administration, NGOs or consultancy is advantageous but not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require analytical skills, policy knowledge and practical management capabilities. Common career paths include employment in local and regional government, central public administration, international and European institutions, policy research institutes, non-governmental organisations, and private consultancies focused on public-sector clients.

• Policy analyst or advisor in municipal and regional authorities.
• Project manager for EU-funded programmes, urban regeneration and community development.
• Researcher or consultant for think tanks, NGOs and international organisations.
• Specialist roles in housing policy, transport planning, environmental policy and social services.
• Progression to doctoral study in public policy, regional studies or related social sciences.

Why study at University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw offers strong interdisciplinary teaching and research links across social sciences, law and economics, which benefits students of applied governance and regional policy. Studying in the capital provides direct access to Polish public institutions, international organisations, NGOs and a vibrant urban environment for study projects and internships.

• Interdisciplinary supervision and a wide choice of elective modules drawn from related faculties.
• Access to research centres, public-sector contacts and internship opportunities in Warsaw and beyond.
• A research-led academic staff with expertise in Polish, European and comparative policy issues.
• Opportunities to combine theoretical training with practical projects, fieldwork and professional placements.