Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice

Pavol Jozef Šafárik University (UPJŠ) in Košice, established in 1959, is a prominent public higher education institution in Slovakia, known for its strong academic programs and research opportunities. It is the second oldest classical university in Slovakia and has consistently ranked among the top universities in the country. UPJŠ offers a supportive learning environment with modern facilities and actively encourages student engagement through various extracurricular activities.

Academics

UPJŠ comprises five faculties: Medicine, Science, Law, Public Administration, and Arts. The university provides a three-level higher education system, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Notably, the Faculty of Medicine is highly regarded, offering modern study programs in General Medicine and Dentistry in English, attracting a significant number of international students. The university emphasizes scientific research, with active participation in national and international projects, and its Technology and Innovation Park focuses on biomedicine, biotechnology, and information technologies.

International Students

UPJŠ has a growing proportion of international students, with over 50 nationalities represented, particularly drawn to the English-taught medical and dental programs. The university offers various support services for international students, including orientation programs, Slovak language courses, and counseling services. Student organizations such as the Association of Medical Students in Košice (SMMK) and the International Federation of Medical Students' Associations (IFMSA) contribute to cultural integration and a vibrant student life. The university also participates in the Erasmus+ program, facilitating international mobility and cultural exchange.

Campus & Location

The university's campus is located in Košice, Slovakia's second-largest city, which was a European Capital of Culture in 2013. Košice offers a rich history, a vibrant cultural life with theaters, cinemas, museums, and galleries, and a lower cost of living compared to larger European capitals. The city has an efficient and affordable public transport system, including trams and buses, making it easy to navigate. The city center is pedestrian-friendly and features stunning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Science at UPJŠ are recognized for their high employment rates in Slovakia. The university actively monitors graduate employment data and collaborates with practitioners to enhance graduate training and align it with employer requirements. UPJŠ has established a Career Club to provide students and graduates with information and opportunities for career development, and to connect them with potential employers. The Košice region also boasts a thriving information technology sector, with which the university's Institute of Computer Science collaborates, offering students valuable industry connections.