Jagiellonian University

What you'll study

This postgraduate programme combines legal, managerial and policy-focused learning to prepare students for complex administrative roles. The curriculum typically covers core areas such as administrative law, public management, public finance, and public policy analysis alongside elective modules that allow specialisation.

• Core modules: Administrative Law and Procedure, Public Management and Governance, Public Finance and Budgeting, Comparative Administrative Systems, Research Methods for Public Administration.
• Optional and elective topics: EU Law and Administration, Public Procurement and Contracting, Strategic Management in the Public Sector, Human Resource Management in Public Organisations, Digital Governance and e‑administration, Ethics and Integrity in Public Service.
• Professional practice: Internships or practice placements with public institutions, local government offices or NGOs are commonly integrated or offered as credit-bearing options to develop applied skills.
• Dissertation or capstone: The programme is completed with an independently researched master’s thesis or capstone project focused on a policy, legal or management problem in administration.

The course balance emphasises both doctrinal understanding of administrative law and practical managerial competences such as policy evaluation, budgeting, project management and use of ICT in public services. Teaching methods include seminars, case studies, simulations and supervised research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised first-cycle degree (bachelor's or equivalent) in administration, law, political science, economics or another related social science or humanities discipline. Applicants with professional experience in public sector roles are also considered.

• Official transcripts and diploma or proof of degree completion.
• A curriculum vitae and a personal statement or motivation letter outlining academic and professional aims in administration.
• Where required, proof of language proficiency in the language of instruction (Polish or English) — applicants whose previous studies were not in the programme language usually need to provide recognised language test results or other evidence of competence.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or submit writing samples, particularly for research-focused pathways.

Specific documentation requirements and any additional qualifying procedures are outlined by the university’s admissions office; prospective students should consult official guidance for the programme they intend to apply to.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Administration pursue a wide range of careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Positions in national and local public administration, municipal management and policy units.
• Roles in regulatory bodies, public agencies and inspectorates.
• Opportunities in European and international organisations, and departments dealing with EU funds and transnational cooperation.
• Advisory and consultancy positions in public procurement, compliance, public finance and organisational reform.
• Management roles in NGOs, foundations and think tanks focused on public policy, social services and governance.
• Corporate roles related to government relations, public affairs and regulatory affairs.

The programme also prepares students for further academic study or research careers leading to doctoral programmes in public administration, public policy or administrative law.

Why study at Jagiellonian University

Jagiellonian University is one of Poland’s oldest and most research-active universities, located in Kraków, a central hub for public administration, cultural institutions and international organisations. The university’s Faculty of Law and Administration and related departments provide an interdisciplinary environment, combining legal expertise with public management and policy analysis.

• Strong academic staff with active research in administrative law, public policy and governance.
• Opportunities for applied learning through collaborations with local government offices, courts, NGOs and EU-focused centres in Kraków.
• Access to a broad academic network and seminars, plus language and methodological support for internationalised study.
• A historic urban setting that offers rich cultural life and proximity to Poland’s public sector institutions for internships and networking.

These features make Jagiellonian University a solid choice for students seeking rigorous academic training and practical preparation for careers in administration and public service.