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The Bachelor of Arts in Polish at the University of Wisconsin offers students a rich linguistic and cultural journey into one of Central Europe's most historically and culturally significant nations. This four-year, full-time program is designed to develop proficiency in the Polish language while immersing students in the literature, history, film, and cultural heritage of Poland. The curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills at all levels, from beginner to advanced, ensuring students gain the fluency needed for academic, professional, or personal use. At the same time, it explores the broader contexts of Polish identity and its contributions to European and global culture.
In addition to intensive language instruction, students engage with topics such as Polish cinema, 20th-century literature, folklore, and the nation’s complex political and social history. The program encourages interdisciplinary study by integrating content from history, Jewish studies, and Slavic cultures. With access to faculty expertise, small class sizes, and opportunities for study abroad in Poland, students build confidence in both language and cultural interpretation. The program cultivates global awareness, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication skills, making it valuable for careers in diplomacy, education, translation, or international research.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Polish
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Wisconsin, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Language Foundations and Cultural Entry Points
• Elementary Polish I & II
• Introduction to Central and Eastern European Cultures
• Academic Writing and Communication
• Global Perspectives in Language Study
Year 2 – Intermediate Skills and Historical Context
• Intermediate Polish I & II
• Polish History and Society
• Introduction to Slavic Literature
• Language and Identity in Eastern Europe
Year 3 – Advanced Proficiency and Cultural Analysis
• Advanced Polish I & II
• Polish Literature and Film
• Topics in Polish Linguistics or Translation
• Elective: Polish-Jewish Cultural Encounters
Year 4 – Research, Application, and Study Abroad
• Seminar in Polish Studies
• Capstone Project or Cultural Fieldwork
• Study Abroad in Poland (Optional)
• Polish Language and Professional Contexts
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles in language education, international relations, translation and interpretation, and cultural research institutions. They often find opportunities in government, nonprofit organizations, academic settings, and international business, particularly in roles requiring expertise in Slavic languages or Central and Eastern European affairs. Proficiency in Polish also opens doors in journalism, publishing, and heritage preservation. Many graduates continue their studies in linguistics, comparative literature, or area studies. The program’s combination of linguistic skill and cultural literacy enables students to work across borders and disciplines, bringing cultural understanding and linguistic expertise to global conversations.
Why Choose This Program
This program stands out for its focus on language mastery, cultural depth, and personalized academic experience, making it ideal for students interested in Polish studies or broader Slavic scholarship. The University of Wisconsin provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment with access to rare resources, native-speaking faculty, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The curriculum promotes both practical language skills and a nuanced appreciation of Polish history, literature, and identity. Students are encouraged to explore intersections between culture, politics, and society, and to develop a global mindset rooted in linguistic fluency. Whether your goal is academic research, cross-cultural communication, or professional engagement in Eastern Europe, this degree gives you the tools to bridge cultures and understand Poland’s evolving role in the modern world.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 608-262-2433
Email: admissions@grad.wisc.edu
Address: 217 Bascom Hall, 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA
