Jagiellonian University

What you'll study

The programme offers a compact, interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the concepts, actors and instruments shaping international security and development. Teaching combines political science, international relations, development studies and law to give students both conceptual foundations and practical skills.

• Core topics: theories of security and development, human security, conflict analysis, peacebuilding and post‑conflict reconstruction.
• Policy and practice: international organisations and governance, humanitarian action, development policy, and security sector reform.
• Regional and thematic modules: Central and Eastern Europe in international security, migration and displacement, natural resources and conflict, and fragility and resilience.
• Research and methods: qualitative and quantitative research methods, policy analysis, project design and monitoring and evaluation.
• Applied work: case studies, simulations, seminar presentations and a capstone project or substantial policy brief that integrates coursework learning.

The diploma is typically delivered through lectures, seminars and workshops with assessed essays, policy memos and a final capstone. Part‑time and flexible study options are often available to accommodate professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent in social sciences, humanities, law, economics or a related subject. A strong academic record and evidence of motivation for postgraduate study in security and development are expected.

• Academic transcript and certificate of prior degree.
• Personal statement outlining relevant experience and study objectives.
• Curriculum vitae highlighting academic and professional background; relevant work or volunteer experience in international affairs is advantageous.
• Proof of proficiency in English for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests or equivalent institutional evidence).
• References: at least one academic or professional referee who can comment on suitability for postgraduate study.

Admission may be competitive and the programme welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds; mature applicants with significant relevant experience are considered on their merits.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Diploma as a bridge into a range of roles in the public, private and non‑profit sectors or as preparation for further study. Typical career pathways include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in government ministries and defence institutions focused on security and development policy.
• Programme officer, analyst or field coordinator for international organisations and multilateral agencies.
• Project manager, researcher or advocacy officer for non‑governmental organisations and humanitarian agencies.
• Risk analyst, consultancy or corporate security roles in the private sector with an international remit.
• Progression to specialist master’s degrees or doctoral research in international relations, security studies or development studies.

Why study at Jagiellonian University

Jagiellonian University combines a long academic tradition with contemporary teaching and research in international affairs. Studying in Kraków offers strong regional expertise in Central and Eastern Europe while exposing students to a broad international community.

• Interdisciplinary teaching: cross‑departmental faculty bring perspectives from political science, law, history and development studies.
• Research and networks: access to research centres, regular seminars and visiting scholars, and partnerships with international institutions active in security and development.
• Practical orientation: emphasis on applied skills, policy writing and project design that are valued by employers and NGOs.
• Location and student support: study in Kraków with language learning opportunities, career services and support for internships and placements in the region.

The programme is suitable for recent graduates and professionals seeking a focused, practice‑oriented postgraduate credential that strengthens understanding of the links between security and development.