University of Rzeszów

The University of Rzeszów (Polish: Uniwersytet Rzeszowski) is a public university located in Rzeszów, Poland. It was established on September 1, 2001 through the merger of several higher education institutions in the city, including the Rzeszów branch of the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Pedagogical University of Kraków, and the Department of Economics of the Hugo Kołłątaj University of Agriculture in Kraków. Its main campus is located within the city of Rzeszów. Location The University of Rzeszów is located in the city of Rzeszów, the capital of the Subcarpathian Voivodeship in southeastern Poland. Its main campus is situated at Aleja Tadeusza Rejtana 16C, in an urban setting that offers students access to a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities. The geographical coordinates of the university are approximately 50°01′48″N latitude and 22°00′56″E longitude. All facilities and grounds belonging to the University of Rzeszów cover an area of 437 acres (177 hectares). Leadership Since its establishment, the University of Rzeszów has been led by the following rectors: Professor Tadeusz Lulek (2001–2002) Professor Włodzimierz Bonusiak (2002–2008) Professor Stanisław Uliasz (2008–2012) Professor Aleksander Bobko (2012–2015) Professor Sylwester Czopek (2015–2024) Professor Adam Reich (2024–present) Units As of January 2025, the University of Rzeszów comprises fifteen faculties: Collegium Medicum Faculty of Biotechnology Faculty of Health Sciences and Psychology Faculty of Medicine Faculty of Physical Culture Sciences Faculty of Biology, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development Faculty of Economics and Finance Faculty of Education and Philosophy Faculty of Exact and Technical Sciences Faculty of Fine Arts Faculty of Humanities Faculty of Law and Administration Faculty of Music Faculty of Philology Faculty of Social Sciences Faculty of Technology and Life Sciences In addition to its faculties, the university hosts several interfaculty units, including the Physical Education and Recreation Centre, the Centre for Foreign Language Studies, and the cultural and educational centre Resovia Saltans The University Hospital named after Fryderyk Chopin in Rzeszów is a leading teaching hospital and medical centre in the region. It offers a wide range of health care services, including oncology, surgery, rehabilitation, and genetic diagnostics. The hospital collaborates closely with the University of Rzeszów, providing medical students with opportunities for practical clinical experience and engage in scientific research. The University Hospital is a key component of the region's healthcare infrastructure. English-language degree programmes The University of Rzeszów currently offers three degree programmes taught in English: Media, Visual and Social Communication Medicine Physiotherapy Lifelong learning The university provides a variety of programs and initiatives focused on lifelong learning. These programs are intended to support professionals in developing skills relevant to contemporary demands. The university's lifelong learning initiatives seek to contribute to professional development and the advancement of a knowledge-based society. The concept of lifelong learning at the University is implemented through various educational pathways and institutions, including the following: The ‘Small University’ of Rzeszów The Children's Technical University The Bilingual University Secondary School First- and Second-Cycle Studies as well as Long-Cycle Master's Degree Programmes The Rzeszów University Doctoral School Postgraduate Studies The University of the Third Age These activities also involve collaboration and partnerships, increased investment in human resources, and the development of advisory services. Partnerships The University of Rzeszów maintains a network of partner universities around the world. Through programmes such as Erasmus+, the university collaborates with institutions in countries including Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Greece, Spain, Iceland, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany, Romania, Turkey, Hungary, and Italy. These international partnerships support student and staff exchanges, joint research projects, and other collaborative initiatives that enhance the educational experience and broaden the university's global reach. Impact on the region and country The University of Rzeszów plays a vital role in the development of the Subcarpathian Voivodeship and Poland as a whole. Its research and educational activities contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas, support local industries, and address region-specific challenges. Through collaboration with local government authorities and the business sector, the university helps foster innovation and stimulate economic growth, positioning itself as a key actor in the region's development strategy. Global scientific contributions The University of Rzeszów is recognized for its contributions to global scientific research. It ranks among the top universities in Poland and maintains a strong presence in various research domains, including biology, liberal arts, social sciences, and environmental science. University researchers participate in projects that address global challenges and expand knowledge across disciplines. Eleven researchers from the University were listed in a ranking of the world's most influential scientists. Research The University of Rzeszów conducts high-level scientific research across multiple academic disciplines. It holds the authority to confer both doctoral degrees and postdoctoral degrees in numerous fields. Academic staff at the university lead a wide range of research projects funded by national and international institutions. One of the university's most notable achievements is the discovery of a Scythian settlement in Chotyniec, a finding that received significant attention within the archaeological community and beyond. A key component of the university's research infrastructure is the Centre for Innovation and Technology Transfer in Technical and Natural Sciences, which supports applied research and promotes collaboration with the business sector. The university also hosts modern laboratories in areas such as biotechnology, physics, chemistry, materials science, medicine, and the natural sciences, facilitating the implementation of projects of both regional and international significance. Research and development cooperation and commercialisation University Centre for Technology Transfer The University of Rzeszów engages in a wide range of applied research and development initiatives through the University Centre for Technology Transfer (UCTT), which facilitates collaboration between academia and industry. These are some examples of such collaboration: Preparation and submission of field protocols, including geocoded photographs and data from ichthyofauna monitoring conducted at 99 sites, for the Stanisław Sakowicz Inland Fisheries Institute – National Research Institute in Olsztyn (2021–2023). R&D project titled “Development of soluble plant extracts enriched through ozonation” for the company OSMO.PL, involving the development of extraction technologies using cranberry and pine bioactive compounds, preservation methods, and sensory evaluation (2021–2023). Ongoing cooperation with prosecutor's offices, courts, the Polish Forensic Association, and private clients in the preparation of expert opinions, document analysis, and fingerprint examinations. Biochemical evaluation of new pasta products developed by Makarony Polskie S.A. for the prevention of chronic diseases, leading to the commercial launch of the following: Novelle DIABETIC (type 2 diabetes prevention, 2022), Novelle CARDIO (prevention of atherosclerosis, 2023), Novelle FIT (prevention of obesity, 2023), in collaboration with the university's special-purpose entity, InventUR. InventUR Through its special-purpose vehicle InventUR, the University of Rzeszów strengthens cooperation with industry. Noteworthy examples include the following:* Signing of a cooperation agreement in September 2024 with Veolia EKOZEC Sp. z o.o. for the development of environmentally sustainable solutions, including the utilisation of biomass combustion by-products and flue gas desulphurisation waste, as well as the production of granulated fertilisers from stabilised sewage sludge. A 2023–2024 study evaluating the recycling potential of kitchen and garden bio-waste in household composters in Rzeszów, commissioned by the Municipal Waste Management Company – Rzeszów Sp. z o.o., which included aspects of vermicomposting. Development of the Social Problem Solving Strategy for the City of Rzeszów (2023–2030) in cooperation with local authorities, addressing demographic trends, labour market needs, childcare availability, and mapping of health, education, cultural, and social support services. Ongoing collaboration with COLLINS Aerospace, regional vineyards, and land surveying companies, including the provision of commissioned research and consultancy services. The University of Rzeszów maintains active collaboration with local government units, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), business enterprises, and various public institutions. This cooperation supports joint research projects, knowledge transfer, student internships, and numerous social and educational initiatives. A major strategic development was the acquisition of the Clinical Provincial Hospital No. 1 named after Fryderyk Chopin in Rzeszów in 2023. This decision significantly enhanced the capacity of the university's Medical College, opening new opportunities for both medical education and clinical research. Central library (RUCL) The Rzeszów University Central Library (RUCL) is the central library of the University of Rzeszów, operating as a university-wide academic, research, and service-oriented institution. It plays a key role in supporting academic research, education, and the dissemination of science and culture both within the university community and among the residents of Rzeszów and the Podkarpackie Voivodeship. It is one of the largest libraries of its kind in the region. The origins of the RUCL trace back to the 1960s, beginning with the establishment of the Regional Branch of the Kraków Teachers’ College in Rzeszów in 1963, and the Rzeszów Higher School of Education in 1965. The modern RUCL was officially formed in 2001 following the foundation of the University of Rzeszów, which resulted from the merger of three institutions: the Higher School of Education, the Rzeszów branch of the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, and the Faculty of Economics of the Hugo Kołłątaj University of Agriculture in Kraków. The consolidation of their academic libraries led to the creation of a unified central library. In 2004, RUCL moved to its new headquarters at ul. Cegielniana 12 (now ul. Prof. Stanisława Pigonia 8), housed in a modern, fully accessible facility. One of the notable innovations was the implementation of an electronic book ordering system. Collections and services Currently, the RUCL holds approximately 750,000 volumes, over 121,000 periodicals, and around 30,000 items in special collections. It also offers access to 33 electronic databases available via a proxy server. Collections can be accessed in specialised reading rooms, or through local and interlibrary loan services. The RUCL provides a wide selection of both printed and digital resources that reflect the academic and research profile of the university. RUCL also serves as a training centre, offering free workshops, courses, and seminars—on-site and online, in Polish and English—primarily for UR students, researchers, and staff, but also for high school students and members of partner research centres. Mission and priorities The mission of the Rzeszów University Central Library extends beyond collection management. It supports the broader academic and local community through its strategic objectives: Ensuring access to global information resources Documenting the scientific output of university staff Promoting and conducting research activities Providing user training and support for self-directed learning Delivering information services Enhancing cultural education and community outreach, especially through regional collections Promoting library services and university visibility Facilities The RUCL is open to the public from Monday to Saturday and functions as both a public library and academic library. It offers approximately 300 workspaces across multiple quiet study zones and group rooms, all equipped with computer workstations and internet access. The RUCL uses the PROLIB integrated library system with an online catalogue. The building is designed to accommodate users with disabilities, ensuring inclusive access. To improve user experience, the RUCL continues to expand and modernise its spaces, providing environments conducive to rest, relaxation, and study, with easy access to both traditional and digital resources. Rzeszów University Press The Rzeszów University Press (Polish: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Rzeszowskiego) is the official academic publisher of the University of Rzeszów. It plays a key role in disseminating scholarly output from the university's academic staff and promoting scientific and cultural achievements. The publishing house is widely recognised among Polish academic publishers. History The origins of the Press date back to 1965 with the establishment of the publishing office of the Higher Pedagogical School in Rzeszów. Following the founding of the University of Rzeszów in 2001—through the merger of three academic institutions—the publishing office evolved into the Rzeszów University Press. Since then, it has become a leading academic publisher in Poland. Publishing activity The mission of the Rzeszów University Press is to publish and disseminate the results of academic work conducted by the university's researchers and lecturers. Its publishing scope includes the following: Academic monographs Edited volumes Textbooks Academic journals Educational materials for students and lifelong learners The publications span various fields of science, humanities, social sciences, medicine, arts, and culture. Open Journal System (OJS) The Press operates a dedicated platform based on the Open Journal Systems (OJS) software, version 3.3.0.14. This open-source content management system was developed by the Public Knowledge Project and is distributed under the GNU GPL. It is widely used by the global academic community for the management and dissemination of peer-reviewed journals. Dozens of journals—published annually, biannually, or quarterly—are available through the University's OJS platform. The system allows open access to current and archived issues, covering a wide range of disciplines. Many of the journals publish articles in multiple languages, reflecting the Press's international scope. Rzeszów University Athletics Centre for Innovative Research in Sport (UCL) The Rzeszów University Athletics Centre for Innovative Research in Sport (UCL) is a modern sports and research facility located at ul. Cicha 2B in Rzeszów, Poland. Officially opened on 4 November 2021, the Centre was established through an investment exceeding PLN 52 million. The facility combines educational, training, and scientific functions, offering, among other features, an athletics hall that meets international standards, advanced research laboratories, and educational infrastructure. UCL serves both students and researchers of the University of Rzeszów, as well as athletes at various levels of advancement – from children and youth to professionals. The Centre hosts educational classes, training sessions, and scientific research in the fields of physical culture and sport. It is also a venue for sports events and collaboration with national sports associations, such as the Polish Athletic Association and the Polish Ice Hockey Federation. In 2024, an expansion of UCL commenced, including the construction of additional gymnasiums, teaching rooms, and laboratories with a total area exceeding 2,000 m². The investment, valued at nearly PLN 26.5 million, aims to further enhance the Centre's educational and research capabilities. Scientific and laboratory facilities The Rzeszów University Athletics Centre (UCL) is a state-of-the-art sports and research facility that integrates sports infrastructure with advanced scientific laboratories. The Centre offers a wide range of laboratories supporting research in areas such as biomechanics, exercise physiology, rehabilitation, dietetics, neurology, and public health. Main Laboratories of the University Athletics Centre (UCL) The University Athletics Centre (UCL) includes the following laboratories, among others: Laboratory of Sports Biomechanics – Analyses the mechanics of athletes’ movements, supporting technique optimisation and injury prevention. Laboratory of Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry – Studies the body's responses to physical exertion, monitoring performance and metabolic parameters. Laboratory of Metabolic Processes, Disorders, and Developmental Models in Children – Focuses on research into metabolic development in children and the identification of related disorders. Laboratory of Translational Research in Medicine – Bridges basic research with clinical practice, supporting the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Laboratory of Innovative Research on the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems – Concentrates on analysing the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems in the context of physical activity. Laboratory of Physical Agents in Rehabilitation – Investigates the application of physical agents such as light, sound, and magnetic fields in rehabilitation processes. Laboratory of Modern Clinimetric Methods and Rehabilitation Planning – Develops and implements modern methods for patient assessment and rehabilitation planning. Laboratory of Pathophysiology of the Human Locomotor System – Analyses pathological mechanisms affecting the functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Laboratory of Methods Supporting the Functioning of Persons with Disabilities – Develops technologies and methods to support individuals with disabilities in daily life. Laboratory of Innovative Anthropometric Methods – Specialises in modern techniques for measuring and analysing the human body. Laboratory of Gerontoprevention – Focuses on research related to health prevention in an ageing society. Laboratory of Central Nervous System and Spine Research – Analyses the functioning of the central nervous system and spinal structures in the context of physical activity. Laboratory of Innovative Biological Feedback Methods – Investigates the use of biofeedback in training and rehabilitation. Laboratories for Innovative Research in Nursing, Midwifery, Emergency Medicine, Public Health, Pharmacology, and Dietetics – Conduct research aimed at improving practices in various fields of medicine and healthcare. Laboratory of Molecular Biology – Engages in the analysis of processes at the molecular level, supporting genetic and biochemical research. Data Processing Laboratory – Provides support in the analysis and interpretation of research data. Thanks to its extensive infrastructure, UCL serves as an interdisciplinary research centre for health, physical fitness, and innovation in medicine and physical culture sciences. UCL serves as an interdisciplinary research centre for health, physical fitness, and innovation in medicine and physical culture sciences. Sports and community engagement Notable individuals associated with the sporting achievements of the University The following are some sporting achievements of students of the university. Miłosz Szpar, a student of Materials Engineering at the University of Rzeszów, won the title of Polish Academic Chess Champion in the university division. The University of Rzeszów has produced several chess players who have contributed significantly to the university's success in the Polish Academic Chess Championships. These individuals include Kseniia Chystykova, Patryk Mrozowski, Adrian Miąsik, Maksymilian Lis, Wojciech Urbański, Jakub Borzęcki, Wojciech Zamojski, and Agnieszka Łuka. The university team has secured third place in the team classification. In total, eight individuals have been instrumental in representing the University of Rzeszów in chess competitions. Anna Wielgosz is a distinguished track and field athlete specializing in middle-distance running. She has represented Poland multiple times at international competitions, winning medals and distinctions. A graduate of the University of Rzeszów, she actively supports the university in various sporting initiatives. Łukasz Różański (born 23 January 1986) - world champion in the bridgerweight division WBC (2023-2024) is a Polish professional boxer. Łukasz Różański is a well-known boxer who has achieved success on the international stage. He is a graduate of the University of Rzeszów and often represents the university in sporting competitions. His achievements in boxing have earned him recognition both in Poland and abroad. Różański vs Babić Fight On 22 April 2023, Różański had the opportunity to fight for the professional world title of the World Boxing Council (WBC) in the newly established bridgerweight division (up to 101.6 kg). His opponent in the title bout was the undefeated Croatian, Alen Babić (11-1, 10 KOs). The fight took place at the G2A Arena in Rzeszów. From the outset, Różański overwhelmed his rival with a flurry of punches and secured victory. Zuzanna Wielgos is a track and field athlete specializing in sprint events. A graduate of the University of Rzeszów, she actively participates in sporting competitions, winning medals and distinctions. Her commitment to sport has brought her numerous successes. Oliwier Wdowik is a track and field athlete excelling in sprint events. He is a student at the University of Rzeszów and represents the university at international sporting events. His achievements in athletics have earned him recognition both domestically and internationally. Marta Niewczas is an academic staff member at the University of Rzeszów. Her associations with the university include the following: Sporting Career: Marta Niewczas is a six-time world champion in traditional karate. She won championship titles at the World Championships in Pruszków (1999), Bologna (2000), Saskatoon (2006), Vilnius (2008), and Łódź (2012). Academic Work: Since 2001, Niewczas has been employed at the University of Rzeszów, where she held the position of assistant professor in the Department of Sport at the Faculty of Physical Education, and since 2019, in the Institute of Physical Culture Sciences. She headed the Department of Sports and Martial Arts at the university from 2007 to 2010. Teaching Activities: Niewczas supervised the traditional karate section in the Academic Sports Association at the University of Rzeszów, whose athletes have won dozens of medals. Rafał Wilk is a renowned athlete and academic staff member at the University of Rzeszów. His associations with the university include the following: Sporting Career: Rafał Wilk is a Polish speedway rider, speedway coach, and para-athlete. He also holds a doctorate in physical culture sciences. Academic Work: Wilk works at the Institute of Physical Culture Sciences at the University of Rzeszów. His academic work focuses on research related to physical culture and sport. Teaching Activities: Wilk provides consultations for students and is involved in various research and teaching projects at the university. Krystian Herba is a well-known athlete specializing in bicycle trials. He is also associated with the University of Rzeszów. His main achievements and associations with the university include the following: Sporting Career: Krystian Herba is a multiple Guinness World Records holder for the number of stairs climbed by bicycle. His records include 3,461 stairs at Willis Tower in Chicago and 3,581 stairs at Park Inn Berlin. Association with the University of Rzeszów: Herba is a graduate of the University of Rzeszów, where he studied physical education. His sporting achievements are frequently promoted by the university, and he actively participates in various sporting initiatives organized by the university. Educational Activities: Herba is involved in educational projects such as "School with Passion", where he conducts demonstrations and inspires young people to be physically active. Sport for people with disabilities The University of Rzeszów organizes the Academic Integrative Sport project, which aims to promote sport among people with disabilities, able-bodied individuals, and those at risk of social exclusion. The project includes a three-day recreational and sporting event, integrating different communities and breaking down life barriers. The project features lectures on the organization of sports training, diagnostics of cognitive abilities, and preparation of athletes' endurance. The university cooperates with various sports organizations, such as the Polish Paralympic Committee and the Polish Association of Disabled Sports "START". This cooperation provides students the opportunity to participate in professional training and sporting competitions, contributing to their sporting and personal development. Students representing the Office for Persons with Disabilities at the University of Rzeszów have achieved numerous sporting successes. For example, during the Polish AZS Integration Championships in swimming, they won seven medals. Achievements of disabled athletes since 2015 The University of Rzeszów has seen numerous successes from its disabled athletes at both national and international levels. Some of the most significant achievements include the following: Polish Integration Championships Bogdan Pawłowski (first-year medical student): 2 gold medals in the 50m backstroke and 50m breaststroke (2024) 2 gold medals in relay races (2024) Michał Domański (first-year computer science student): 1 bronze medal in the 50m breaststroke (2024) 2 gold medals in relay races (2024) Katarzyna Karakin (first-year biology student): 1 bronze medal in the 50m breaststroke (2024) Patryk Bem (first-year master's student in administration): 1 bronze medal in the 50m freestyle (2024) 1 bronze medal in the 25m freestyle (2024) Gracjan Nowak (second-year physical education and first-year physiotherapy student): 1 silver medal in the 25m freestyle (2024) 2 gold medals in relay races (2024) Paweł Biernacki (medical graduate): 2 gold medals in relay races (2024) Dominik Dendura (mechatronics graduate): 1 bronze medal in chess (2024) Klaudia Pachuta (second-year master's student in visual arts): 1 gold medal in table tennis (2024) Patryk Bem (first-year master's student in administration): 1 silver medal in table tennis (2024) Anna Wiktor (fifth-year law student): 4th place in table tennis (2024) International competitions Mateusz Zięba (fourth-year law and administration student): Gold and silver medals at international sporting events (2023) Dominik Dendura (second-year student at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences): Participation in international sporting events (2023) Campus The University of Rzeszów offers accommodation in several student halls of residence, including DS Filon, DS Laura, DS Olimp, DS Merkury, and Hilton. These residences provide a variety of living options for students, ensuring comfort and accessibility. Students can apply for accommodation by submitting an application to the Education Department or the Social Affairs Section. The accommodation facilities available to University of Rzeszów students provide approximately 2,200 places. Students residing in these facilities have access to numerous on-campus services and amenities, including study rooms, recreational spaces, and close proximity to the university's main educational and administrative buildings. See also List of universities in Poland References External links University of Rzeszów