Rektorski_180x250.indd 1
31.05.2013 21:54
Rektorski_180x250.indd 2
31.05.2013 21:54
Rektorski_180x250.indd 3
31.05.2013 21:54
The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library, view from the window, Campus in Katowice
4
Rektorski_180x250.indd 4
31.05.2013 21:54
Contents: Welcome ....................................................................................................................... 9 Authorities ................................................................................................................... 10 University of Silesia in Katowice ......................................................................... 12
Interdisciplinary ............................................................................................
14 Study areas ................................................................................................................... 18 Faculties & Schools ................................................................................................... 21 Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library ................................. 22 Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research .................................................................................. 24
Knowledge-based economy ............................................................. 26 Factors of regional growth .................................................................................... 28 International .....................................................................................................
32 School of Polish Language and Culture ............................................................ 38
Meeting point
.................................................................................................. Open university .......................................................................................................... Career Center ............................................................................................................. Alumni ............................................................................................................................ Contact details ...........................................................................................................
40 44 46 47 50
5
Rektorski_180x250.indd 5
31.05.2013 21:54
Discover
University of Silesia in Katowice. Start by visiting our website at www.english.us.edu.pl to learn more.
Then come and see for yourself.
Interdisciplinary The University of Silesia offers programs of study in a wide range of disciplines including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and technology. Students can choose from numerous high-quality degree tracks at the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral levels.
Read more at pages 14-25
Knowledge-based economy An integral part of a vibrant, growing community, the University of Silesia cooperates closely with private sector industries, and local and national agencies to serve research needs and contribute academic expertise in practice. The University of Silesia is responsive to the evolving needs of the labor markets and tailors its curricula accordingly. Read more at pages 26-31
6
Rektorski_180x250.indd 6
31.05.2013 21:54
Strength in diversity Throughout Silesia’s rich history right up to the present day, people of all walks and different cultures and traditions have lived, worked, and played together in this colorful region of Southern Poland. In today’s Silesia, the cutting edge technology dovetails with tradition, enabling innovation, adding value, and opening opportunities for economic development and social enrichment.
Friendly atmosphere At the University of Silesia you will become a welcomed member of a warm and energetic scholarly family — and it’s a big family. You’ll meet your fellow students and build rewarding associations with approachable subject matter specialists and inspiring researchers. Our academic staff love what they do. At the University of Silesia, you will too.
International The University of Silesia is an active member of the world academic and research communities. International cooperation is a top priority. Our students enjoy regular opportunities to participate in an array of exchange programs by visiting partner institutions the world over.
Did you know?
Read more at pages 32-39
University of Silesia means: •
one of the largest public universities in Poland
•
over
•
more than
•
2,000 35,000 200,000
teaching staff students
proud alumni 7
Rektorski_180x250.indd 7
31.05.2013 21:54
Faculty of Philology, Campus in Sosnowiec
8
Rektorski_180x250.indd 8
31.05.2013 21:54
Welcome
Wiesław Banyś, professor in Romance Studies, Rector of the University of Silesia
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the University of Silesia in Katowice, one of the largest and most important education and research centers in Poland. Whether you are a researcher partnering with us, a student setting forth on your academic journey, or simply someone interested in developing your ideas and increasing your knowledge and potential, we are committed to providing you with an exceptional experience, here, at the University of Silesia. In this age of immediate and seemingly boundless information, the role of the university has grown increasingly crucial. Institutions of higher learning have always been vital: as centers of discovery, innovation, and the popularization of new ways of thinking. First and foremost, though, I see the university as a community: a scholarly family of both students and academics, of course, but also a broader community open to representatives of interests well beyond the classroom, out in the big world. In Central Europe, in Poland, and especially Silesia, you will find an amazingly rich and diverse mix of different cultures, traditions, and walks of life.
At the University of Silesia, we are aware of the impact our efforts have on the broader community, yet, at the same time, we are also open to being influenced by that community in turn. This allows us to stay connected with local people, institutions, and trends, while remaining mindful of and responsive to global necessities. I invite you to come and experience the synergy here in this interdisciplinary hub, where you can discover and develop your thoughts and talents, and make valuable contributions to the swelling information pool. Here at the University of Silesia, ideas find practical applications; individuals find their place in the larger community. High caliber instruction together with outstanding research conditions and friendly atmosphere make University of Silesia a perfect Meeting Point for people and ideas. I look forward to meeting you, and seeing you take part in the exciting work being done here: at the University of Silesia in Katowice!
Wiesław Banyś
9
Rektorski_180x250.indd 9
31.05.2013 21:54
Authorities
10
Rektorski_180x250.indd 10
31.05.2013 21:54
prof. Andrzej Kowalczyk Vice-Rector for Research and Collaboration with Industry
prof. Ryszard Koziołek Vice-Rector for Education and Student Affairs
prof. Wiesław Banyś Rector of the University of Silesia
prof. Mirosław Nakonieczny Vice-Rector for Internationalisation, Institutional Affairs and Public Relations
prof. Stanisław Kucharski Vice-Rector for Finance and Development
11
Rektorski_180x250.indd 11
31.05.2013 21:54
University of Silesia in Katowice
Faculty of Philology, Campus in Sosnowiec
12
Rektorski_180x250.indd 12
31.05.2013 21:54
University of Silesia in Katowice is one of the largest and most dynamically developing public universities in Poland. Founded in 1968, the University of Silesia quickly established a reputation as a vibrant academic institution and an important interdisciplinary research hub. With a tradition of launching new programs to best meet the needs of rapidly changing labor markets, the University of Silesia offers students a variety of programs and specialized fields of study. With outstanding research teams and well-equipped laboratories, we are an important player on the global research arena. We actively participate in European Commission initiatives focused both on educational and scientific development, and realize projects within the Lifelong Learning Programme, the Research Fund for Coal and Steel and Framework Programmes. The University of Silesia in Katowice gives its students a unique possibility to develop their interests, fulfil their passions and gain practical skills necessary in constantly changing job market. Every academic year we offer over 50 programs and over 160 specializations, that are designed to help our students and alumni meet the challenges of changing reality and labor market. We provide a stimulating learning environment where individual interests can be pursued and academic ambitions achieved. The University of Silesia serves over 35,000 intramural and extramural students and it already has more than 200,000 proud alumni, among which there are outstanding personalities in many fields. Our community consists also of more than 2,000 teachers and researchers.
We have signed over 600 cooperation agreements with academic institutions all over the world, and we are a member of numerous international associations i.a. the European University Association (EUA) the Heads of University Management & Administration Network in Europe (HUMANE), the Interuniversity Centre for Research and Cooperation with Eastern and South-Eastern Europe (CIRCEOS). We also actively cooperate within national organizations: the Silesian Universities Rectors Conference, Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools in Poland (prof. Wiesław Banyś, Rector of the University of Silesia is the president of CRASP), Conference of Rectors of the Polish Universities (Rector of the University of Silesia is the president of KRUP as well), International Relations Offices Forum (IROs Forum) and the Silesian Universities Network (SUN). The last one gathers all nine public higher education institutions located in the Upper Silesia Region in Poland. If starting studies is an investment, we can assure you that investment in the University of Silesia will pay off whatever your scientific and professional aspirations are.
Find out more about the University of Silesia in Katowice on: www.english.us.edu.pl
13
Rektorski_180x250.indd 13
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Rektorski_180x250.indd 14
31.05.2013 21:54
Tadeusz Molenda, Ice pilgrims, Hruby Jesenik, 2nd Biennial Photography Competition organized by the University of Silesia in Katowice
Rektorski_180x250.indd 15
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary Academic programs should aim not only at acquisition of knowledge and skills, but first and foremost at development of creative attitude towards the world. Mission Statement University of Silesia, Katowice, May 1997
International students during Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Cieszyn
16
Rektorski_180x250.indd 16
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
The University of Silesia in Katowice is one of the largest and most dynamically developing public universities in Poland.
As an interdisciplinary university, the University of Silesia offers a wide array of programs and specialized fields of study and research in a broad range of disciplines including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and technology. The university offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral studies, as well as postgraduate courses designed to improve professional and personal skills. All programs are divided into specializations tailored to students’ needs and applicability toward their future careers.
Teams consisting of teaching staff and Ph.D. students follow global trends within particular disciplines and specializations and strive to find real solutions to current research problems. Programs offered by the University of Silesia are systematically evaluated by the Polish Accreditation Committee and the University Accreditation Commission to ensure quality education.
Did you know? University of Silesia offers:
50 160
over
study programs
&
specializations
17
Rektorski_180x250.indd 17
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Study areas:
Social Sciences
s
The University of Silesia places strong emphasis on the social sciences. During their course of studies our students obtain qualifications which allow them to become highly-valued lawyers, psychologists, managers, teachers, and scientists. Graduates are enabled to both satisfy their interests as well as make worthwhile contributions to their world.
Natural Sciences The laws of the natural world, the symbiotic environment, the materials that comprise everything we see, touch, and taste — these are of paramount importance to those who choose to delve into the fascinating field of natural sciences. At the University of Silesia, professional laboratories, brilliant professors, and international research cooperation ensure first-rate opportunities for quality preparation for future career paths.
18
Rektorski_180x250.indd 18
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Science and Technology Innovative, cutting-edge research is conducted in interdisciplinary areas of science and technology, and the University of Silesia is a player; providing state-of-the-art laboratories and a top-notch faculty corps of dedicated researchers. The university offers high quality of study in rewarding and exciting fields.
Art
Humanities The University of Silesia is home to the humanities, whose focus is humankind’s place in creation, our history, language and culture. Programs in both classical and modern European languages are offered, as well opportunities to master such important languages as Chinese and Arabic. Students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to secure professional futures in advertising, media, cultural institutions, and education.
The creation and reception of art is among the most vital aspects of human life. While artists are born, professionals are made. The University of Silesia’s programs are designed for people who are ready to go beyond their interests in selfexpression and personal-development in order to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful professional life.
To browse a detailed, up-to-date bulletin of programs and specializations, visit www.english.us.edu.pl 19
Rektorski_180x250.indd 19
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library, Campus in Katowice
20
Rektorski_180x250.indd 20
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
The heart of the University of Silesia is in Katowice, but the arms and legs are satellite campuses based in four other cities of the region: Sosnowiec, Chorz贸w, Cieszyn and Rybnik. The University of Silesia consists of twelve faculties and five additional university-wide and inter-faculty schools providing innovative study programs.
Faculties & Schools of the University of Silesia in Katowice: 1. Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection 2. Faculty of Computer Science and Materials Science 3. Faculty of Earth Sciences 4. Faculty of Ethnology and Educational Sciences 5. Faculty of Fine Arts and Music 6. Faculty of Law and Administration 7. Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry 8. Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology 9. Faculty of Philology 10. Faculty of Radio and Television 11. Faculty of Social Sciences 12. Faculty of Theology 13. Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and the Natural Sciences 14. Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in the Humanities 15. International School of Political Sciences 16. School of Polish Language and Culture 17. School of Management* *The different colors used in the list above are far from arbitrary; they represent the official colors used by each of the faculties of the University of Silesia.
21
Rektorski_180x250.indd 21
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library Opened in 2012, the Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library (Polish acronym: CINiBA) is a modern scientific library open to everyone – not only students and researches. As opposed to the traditional, remote, librarians-only stacks, most of the materials in this rich collection are freely available in the open space to which users have free access. One can also use cutting-edge technologies and information tools. It is also a friendly space, designed to be accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. This space is ready and waiting for your scientific challenges. CINiBA is: • a joint project of the University of Silesia and the University of Economics in Katowice. • a hybrid library – free access to different types of data carriers: books, magazines, databases, electronic texts, audio-visual materials, multimedia, and collections adjusted to the needs of all groups of users. • an awards-winning architectural project.
For more information, please visit the website: www.ciniba.us.edu.pl
22
Rektorski_180x250.indd 22
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Every great library reminds us that the readers are also the travellers. Public library is a sacred place for the pilgrims of knowledge, a place that creates a community of readers, and a space of freedom for the individual silent reading. Library is still a natural heart of each educational institution. The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library blends the best features of the traditional library with the latest technology. Today we can observe a revolution in the techniques of reproduction of texts. But, in my opinion, an era of the electronic books is the new time for the libraries. Not only as a public space or a place to work. Library comes back as a possibility of the real relation with the printed materials – objects of art. In a place that we call “library”, we can read and touch beautiful things, majority of which we may never own. But there, they become a part of our internal life, private and intimate. Ryszard Koziołek, professor in Polish Studies, Vice-Rector for Education and Student Affairs
23
Rektorski_180x250.indd 23
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research a new quality of education
Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research, Campus in Chorz贸w
Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research represents a new standard in quality education for the 21st century, since its mission is to ensure the growth of innovations along with stimulating the economic development of the region, and the country as a whole. Here students enjoy hands-on access to unique, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and modern tools and techniques used in information technology. The Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research is also well placed to increase the international mobility of students and academic staff
through international studies as well as enhanced cooperation with other international research centres. The Centre serves also as a success story of scientific-industrial collaboration, combining human and research potential of partner centres, and helping in the dissemination of the acquired knowledge.
For more information, please visit the website: www.smcebi.us.edu.pl
24
Rektorski_180x250.indd 24
31.05.2013 21:54
Interdisciplinary
Dedicated mainly to hard science areas, the Chorz贸w Centre joins world class scientific research with high-quality education. Using professional equipment under the guidance of outstanding scientists, students discover their own passions and gifts. We are proud to be a part of an environment where young scientists can be mentored by experts in their fields, and where you can simply see how talents are being developed right before your very eyes. Moreover, students of the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry are also given an opportunity to participate in a unique and innovative iCSE project. It is focused on analysing and solving problems with modern software. The project is run in the partnership with the University of Oslo and is financed from the European Social Fund.
To get to know more about the project, please visit: www.iCSE.us.edu.pl
Alicja Ratuszna, professor in Nanophysics, Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry
Load lock chamber for the XPS spectrometer
25
Rektorski_180x250.indd 25
31.05.2013 21:54
Knowledge-based economy
Rektorski_180x250.indd 26
31.05.2013 21:54
Anna Orczewska, Ecologist as a cartographer, 2nd Biennial Photography Competition organized by the University of Silesia in Katowice
Rektorski_180x250.indd 27
31.05.2013 21:54
Knowledge-based economy
Factors of regional growth In response to challenges posed by the contemporary global economy, the University of Silesia is committed to apply academic achievements to the essential processes of sustainable development.
The role of the university has evolved beyond that of the traditional learning center; the modern university has emerged as a key player in the knowledge-based economy. Conscious of its vital role, the University of Silesia in Katowice makes important scientific contributions via the open, free flow of new
28
Rektorski_180x250.indd 28
31.05.2013 21:54
Knowledge-based economy
Today one of the most important challenges for academic institutions of all kinds is not only to meet the needs of industry, IT and other business sectors, and implement solutions developed in research there, but also to encourage business environment representatives to think about their profits in terms of sustainable development. Andrzej Kowalczyk, professor in Hydrology, Vice-Rector for Research and Collaboration with Industry
For more information, please visit the website: www.transfer.us.edu.pl Office for Industry Cooperation team
knowledge, innovations and best practices, crucial factors in enriching regional economic growth. Knowledge transfer at the University of Silesia is supported by the Office for Industry Cooperation. 29
Rektorski_180x250.indd 29
31.05.2013 21:54
Knowledge-based economy
In order to efficiently promote economic growth alongside academic institutional development and to avoid squandering resources, applied science must go hand in hand with the implementation of its achievements. Spin-off and spin-out companies are effective realizations of this principle – and all parties benefit from such solutions. When start-ups combine well-educated personnel with highly-motivated students engaged in innovative projects, an energetic, proactive culture emerges. Work feels less like work and more like discovery.
To find out more, visit the project’s website: www.xm.us.edu.pl
Marcin Binkowski, Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Computer Science, established “n-LAB” – spin-out company for nondestructive analysis of object internal structure, preparation of 3D models and rapid prototyping
30
Rektorski_180x250.indd 30
31.05.2013 21:54
Knowledge-based economy
Our involvement in supporting sustainable development of local communities is well represented in scientific projects implementation. TRACE — Tracing Food Commodities in Europe
ZiZOZap — a Strategic Research Project The goal of ZiZOZap is to solve the problems of decreasing ecological and functional potentials of dam reservoirs due to aging, normal wear and tear, as well as additional stress on the structures resulting from increased capacity demands. Research results are pitted against water management scenarios using numeric models of the reservoir.
This timely project — undertaken in the consortium of 53 partners in the frame of the 6th Framework Programme — is focused on developing methods and systems to increase consumer confidence in the authenticity of food for use in the food industry. The aim is to deliver cost-effective procedures and tools for detecting fraudulent products and checking compliance with quality specifications. Descriptive information about the chemical composition of selected commodities is gathered to support the development of traceability methods. Establishing a Good Traceability Practice is essential to increasing consumer confidence in the quality of the food supply, e.g., food sourcing and production, authenticity, and detecting fraud.
To find out more, visit the project’s website: www.trace.eu.org
Measurable results of the project are: improvement of the reservoir potential as a source of drinking water for Silesia, effective protection against floods and droughts, supporting water discharge from the reservoir under drought conditions, protection of natural resources and fishery management in the reservoir. The project is undertaken in a consortium of 4 partners and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund under the Operational Programme “Innovative Economy”.
To find out more, visit the project’s website: www.zizozap.pl
To learn more about all of our projects, please visit:
www.english.us.edu.pl/projects
31
Rektorski_180x250.indd 31
31.05.2013 21:54
International
Rektorski_180x250.indd 32
31.05.2013 21:55
Monika Jędrzejczyk-Korycińska, Green offensive, 3rd Biennial Photography Competition organized by the University of Silesia in Katowice
Rektorski_180x250.indd 33
31.05.2013 21:55
International International cooperation As a vibrant member of the global academic community, international cooperation is a paramount priority at the University of Silesia. We establish and maintain long-term cooperation with our global partners on a number of different levels, including
educational, research, and cultural. The University of Silesia has signed over 600 bilateral agreements with partner institutions in countries all over the world. We believe that it is crucial to teach, discover, and transfer knowledge in a form that is not only fascinating but also applicable in the world and everyday life.
Student during Erasmus Day, Campus in Katowice
International students Year by year, the University of Silesia hosts an increasing number of international students, who are coming as exchange, Erasmus and full-time students. We do highly appreciate the valuable contribution
that international students bring to the University of Silesia. Our academic and administrative staff does its best to ensure our international students enjoy excellent conditions for studying, developing their professional skills, as well as pursuing their personal interests.
34
Rektorski_180x250.indd 34
31.05.2013 21:55
International
International students have a huge impact not only on the work of each member of the academic and administrative staff, but also on how the university as an institution functions and evolves. International students at the University of Silesia not only learn about Poland, but also, naturally, teach us about diversity, enable us to recognize our own constraints, and broaden our perspectives. There is nothing more inspiring.
Jolanta Tambor, professor in Polish Studies, Rector’s Proxy for International Students, Head of the School of Polish Language and Culture
Annual parade during the Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Campus in Cieszyn
35
Rektorski_180x250.indd 35
31.05.2013 21:55
International
Teaching English at the University of Silesia has given me new ways to perceive the world, to understand the English language, and to define a university education. The chance to be a part of the University’s diverse, multilingual, professional Faculty of Philology has helped me to think critically about the system of higher education in the USA. In my role as English Teaching Assistant through the Fulbright program, I am coming to understand the unique strengths of both Polish and US academic institutions. Joseph Muller, visiting Fulbright English Teaching Assistant at the University of Silesia
36
Rektorski_180x250.indd 36
31.05.2013 21:55
International
International research The university fosters several international humanities projects, oriented towards current social issues and demographic trends analyses, regional and European identity, and undertakings evaluating global geographical changes, while challenging matters of the biological and hard science issues. Many projects aim at working out effective technological solutions to be practically applied in today’s economy.
Facts & Figures: 600
cooperation agreements
1,500
& research projects
Working in the international research team always brings the added value. Meeting people with different perspectives, different points of view, even coming from different educational traditions guarantees that research is conducted in innovative way, and outcomes are interesting and applicable. Therefore, we strongly support development in that direction. Mirosław Nakonieczny, professor in Biology, Vice-Rector for Internationalisation, Institutional Affairs and Public Relations Analysis Chamber of the Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectometer (ToFSIMS), Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Education and Research, Campus in Chorzów
37
Rektorski_180x250.indd 37
31.05.2013 21:55
International
School of Polish Language and Culture
Country presentations during the Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Campus in Cieszyn
Students during the Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Campus in Cieszyn
38
Rektorski_180x250.indd 38
31.05.2013 21:55
International
The School of Polish Language and Culture, a specialized unit of the University of Silesia, runs a variety of successful Polish language courses specially scaled to meet the needs of different learners. Whatever your level, you can join a cohort or attend specially-tailored individual lessons.
The School cooperates with various institutions interested in Polish language education and Polish Studies, e.g., the Beijing Foreign Studies University, China, and the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. It has also signed patronage agreements with foreign high schools offering Polish language in their curricula. The School also answers the growing demand for Polish as a foreign language teachers in Poland, Europe, and many regions of the world by providing post-graduate courses for future teachers. These courses take place annually in Katowice, but are also organized in different locations in the world – in Canada, Germany, Italy, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and many more. Until now, there have been over 700 alumni of Postgraduate Course in Teaching Polish Culture and Polish Language to Foreigners. Each year, more than 500 international students attend Polish language and culture classes. These are University of Silesia students, students of other Silesian universities, as well as international companies’ employees and individual people. As learning about culture and ethnicity leads
to extraordinary approaches, students enjoy a vibrant array of festivities, events, and interactive, extramural activities. One of the formats we are most proud of is our Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture in Cieszyn. Not only does this program provide a truly thrilling educational experience, but also involves an annual feast for students from different countries, all with at least one thing in common: a committed interest in the Polish language, its people, and its ways. Launched in 1991, the School has established itself as quite a tradition. The Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture is simply four weeks of fun, culture, leisure, and Polish language!
To find out more about the School of Polish Language and Culture, please visit: www.sjikp.us.edu.pl
39
Rektorski_180x250.indd 39
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
Rektorski_180x250.indd 40
31.05.2013 21:55
Ryszard J. Kaczka, History ready for reading, 4th Biennial Photography Competition organized by the University of Silesia in Katowice
Rektorski_180x250.indd 41
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point Did you know? Poland is the biggest country in Central Europe, is a member of both NATO and the EU, has a population of over 38 million people, and is home to two million students.
Poland is a crossroad of cultures. Here, at the very heart of Central Europe, not only does East meet West, but North meets South. The rich array of cultures, traditions, perspectives, and values permeate and enhance one another. Poland offers not only cultural but also geographical diversity: from the beautiful Baltic Coast to the Great Lakes District, to the virgin forestland, and breathtaking mountains, all within an adventurous train ride’s reach.
42
Rektorski_180x250.indd 42
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
Upper Silesia is a center of industry and economy. It is also well known for strong local and cultural autonomy. Silesia has a unique structure — it consists of more than 70 municipalities with a total population of approximately 4.6 million people to practice your Polish with.
Chorzów
Katowice Rybnik
Sosnowiec Thanks to a well-developed road, rail, bus and tram infrastructure, commuting between cities in the region is cheap, fast, and easy. Access to forests, parks, and green areas ensures tranquility and contact with nature.
Cieszyn
43
Rektorski_180x250.indd 43
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
Open university
…the universities’ task of spreading knowledge among the younger generations implies that, in today’s world, they must also serve society as a whole; and that the cultural, social and economic future of society requires, in particular, a considerable investment in continuing education… Magna Charta Universitatum, Bologna, 18th September 1988
The University of Silesia in Katowice is acutely aware of its position in Upper Silesia, as an academic, cultural, and innovative centre. We are conscious of the extraordinary historical, cultural heritage of Upper Silesia, which has always been a meeting point of individuals and cultures. Our aim is to remain responsive to the needs of the local, national, and global communities. Research
conducted at the University is designed not only to achieve particular scientific or academic goals, but first and foremost to answer diagnosed practical questions of economic, social, and cultural importance.
44
Rektorski_180x250.indd 44
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
The mission of the University of Silesia begins with providing a high quality education for its 35,000 degree program students, but extends well beyond this to function as a meeting point for all members of the local community – regardless of age. That is why at the University of Silesia we have prepared extended educational offerings especially tailored to serve the needs of different age groups.
Workshops in Chemistry, Childrens’ University of Silesia
Childrens’ University of Silesia
Teenagers’ University of Silesia
Designed for children, organized by university staff, learning occurs here via fun, fascinating workshops, exciting events, educational parties, and a variety of multimedia activities
The varied enrichment programs offered here expand teens’ knowledge, inspire new interests and develop talents and skills.
www.dzieci.us.edu.pl Prospective Students’ University of Silesia
www.usm.us.edu.pl
University of the Third Age
Here, via blended learning, the university offers a valuable arsenal of specialized preparatory courses for high school grads intent on getting accepted to university.
Established in 1982 on the premise that one is never too old to learn, our Third Age University provides a wealth of lectures, workshops, and courses for the senior members of the local community.
www.maturzysta.us.edu.pl
www.utw.us.edu.pl 45
Rektorski_180x250.indd 45
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
Career Center
The mission of the Career Center – one of the most dynamically developing units of the University of Silesia – is to facilitate students’ and graduates’ entrance into and successful functioning within the labor market, as well as to provide support in gaining professional experience, along with guidance on job searching and career advancement. These goals are realized via a variety of activities that promote partnering between the academic society and potential employers. The Career Center at the University of Silesia offers students and alumni a variety of assistance and support, among them: • Career counseling, • Professional preferences diagnosis, • Occupational growth projections, • Resume and cover letter guidance,
•
• • •
•
Various workshops on such themes as negotiating, public speaking, time management, group work, leadership, and self-assertion, Postings of internships and employment opportunities, Internet database of job listings, Online platform where students can upload their resumes to increase their visibility to potential employers, and Professional entrepreneurship guidance from START — Academic Entrepreneurship consultants.
To learn more, visit the Career Center’s webpage at www.bk.us.edu.pl
46
Rektorski_180x250.indd 46
31.05.2013 21:55
Meeting point
Alumni The University of Silesia’s scholarly family extends beyond current students, instructors, and researchers. Our alumni are also vibrant members of our academic community, an extended family comprised of over 200,000 members. Alumni are encouraged to take part in all sorts of events organized at the University – from performances and festivals to official ceremonies. Alumni have at their disposal an up-to-date website www.absolwent.us.edu.pl as well as the University of Silesia Alumni Association. Former students fondly return time and again to their Alma Mater, where they can always count on a warm welcome. Among the many popular, fun-filled traditions enjoyed by the University of Silesia community is our annual Alumni Picnic that takes place each September. All alumni are invited, together with their families and friends to take advantage of a unique opportunity to meet, exchange experiences, reminisce, network, and simply enjoy sharing some time together. There is also the “Alumnus with Passion” contest, which showcases the illustrious careers of our alumni, no matter when they graduated. Each month we present a profile of the “Alumnus of the month”, and finally elections are held for “Alumnus of the Year”.
To get more details, please visit: www.absolwent.us.edu.pl
47
Rektorski_180x250.indd 47
31.05.2013 21:55
48
Rektorski_180x250.indd 48
31.05.2013 21:55
International students during Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture in Cieszyn
49
Rektorski_180x250.indd 49
31.05.2013 21:55
Contact details University of Silesia in Katowice Department of International Relations E-mail: international@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32 359 20 71 Fax: +48 32 359 11 78
Address: Bankowa 12 40-007 Katowice Poland
www.english.us.edu.pl
Visit our website by smartphone
Find us on Facebook and on VKontakte
at www.facebook.com/UniversityofSilesiainKatowice at www.vk.com/us_edu_pl
Published by: Department of International Relations, University of Silesia in Katowice Texts by: Department of International Relations, University of Silesia in Katowice Proofreading by: Kevin Hagarty Design by: Piotr Jakoweńko, www.ide.org.pl Photos by: Roman Łuszczki Special thanks for photo contributions to: • Biennale Photography Competitions “Science on Camera”, organized by the University of Silesia in Katowice (pages: 14-15, 26-27, 32-33, 40-41); • Press Office of the University of Silesia (pages: 24, 46); • Childrens’ University of Silesia (page: 45); • ZiZOZap Project (page: 31); • Marzena Smyłła, CINiBA (page: 20). Printed by: Drukarnia Kolumb 50
Rektorski_180x250.indd 50
31.05.2013 21:55
This publication was printed using 100% recycled paper. Paper pulp was bleached using a chlorine-free process.
51
Rektorski_180x250.indd 51
31.05.2013 21:55
Contact details University of Silesia in Katowice Department of International Relations E-mail: international@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32Â 359 20 71 Fax: +48 32Â 359 11 78 Address: Bankowa 12 40-007 Katowice, Poland
www.english.us.edu.pl Find us on Facebook
at www.fb.com/UniversityofSilesiainKatowice
Rektorski_180x250.indd 52
31.05.2013 21:55