AGH University of Krakow Engineering Programmes in English 2026: Complete Guide

Why Choose AGH University of Krakow for Engineering

AGH University of Science and Technology (Akademia Górniczo-Hutnicza) in Krakow, Poland, is one of Central Europe’s leading technical universities. Located at 30 Mickiewicza Avenue in the heart of Krakow, AGH has established itself as a powerhouse of engineering education with a growing portfolio of programmes taught entirely in English.

What sets AGH University apart is the combination of rigorous technical education with exceptionally affordable tuition fees. While Western European and North American engineering programmes often cost €10,000–€40,000 per year, AGH offers comprehensive English-taught programmes starting at just €2,000 annually. This price point, combined with Krakow’s low cost of living, makes AGH one of the best value propositions in European engineering education.

The university’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach and strong industry connections. AGH’s engineering programmes are designed to produce graduates who can work at the intersection of multiple technical disciplines — a philosophy increasingly valued by global employers. The hands-on, project-oriented teaching methodology ensures students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. For comparison with other European engineering institutions, explore our guide to Politecnico di Milano Management Engineering, one of Italy’s premier programmes.

Mechatronics Bachelor’s Programme at AGH University

The Mechatronics Bachelor’s programme at AGH is a 7-semester (3.5-year) first-level degree offered by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics. This programme represents AGH’s commitment to interdisciplinary engineering education, combining mechanics, electronics, control engineering, and computer engineering into a unified curriculum.

Programme Philosophy

AGH defines mechatronics as “interdisciplinary knowledge in areas of engineering and technology — a new approach to design and manufacture innovative products.” The programme was created because modern engineers need wide knowledge across many disciplines to achieve innovative solutions competitive on the global market. This philosophy drives the curriculum design, ensuring graduates can think across traditional engineering boundaries.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is divided into two categories:

• General courses: Mathematics, physics, chemistry, material science, computer science, and control science — providing the scientific foundations every engineer needs
• Technical courses: Mechanical design, manufacturing processes, electronics, electrical engineering, CAD/CAM/CAE, measurements and signal processing, project management, and software engineering

This dual-track approach ensures students develop both theoretical understanding and practical engineering skills. The programme emphasizes learning to recognize real engineering problems and developing the ability to work effectively in engineering teams.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are qualified to analyze, design, manufacture, operate, and service complex interdisciplinary products across industries including automotive, aviation, household equipment, consumer electronics, defense, software, and manufacturing. The breadth of the mechatronics curriculum means graduates are not limited to a single industry — they can adapt to diverse engineering roles. Tuition is €3,800 per year plus a one-time €200 enrolment fee.

Mechatronic Design Master’s Specialization

Building on the bachelor’s foundation, the Mechatronic Design specialization is a 3-semester (1.5-year) Master’s programme also offered by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics. This programme takes the interdisciplinary approach further with a heavy emphasis on project-oriented learning and industry collaboration.

The programme focuses on designing mechatronic products with an approach considering interdisciplinary design constraints, market-related requirements, multifunctionality, user-friendly operation, and minimization of whole-product lifecycle costs. This holistic design philosophy aligns with modern product development practices at leading technology companies.

Curriculum Highlights

Approximately a quarter of all courses deal specifically with the integration of mechatronic systems — the critical competency that distinguishes mechatronics engineers from traditional mechanical or electrical engineers. Key areas include:

• Design of mechanical, electronic, and control systems
• Application of dedicated software tools and testing equipment
• Designing and prototyping complex mechatronic systems
• Embedded systems and microsystems (MEMS) design
• Practical trainings with industrial partners

Each student participates in designing and prototyping a mechatronic product, gaining hands-on experience through cooperation between the Department and industrial partners. This R&D-oriented approach gives graduates a significant advantage in the job market. As the AGH international studies page notes, the programme develops comprehensive interdisciplinary knowledge and team management skills. Tuition is €4,800 per year.

Electronics and Telecommunications Programme at AGH

The Electronics and Telecommunications programme is a 7-semester (3.5-year) Bachelor’s degree offered by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Automatics, Computer Science and Electronics. This programme prepares students for one of the most dynamic and fast-growing sectors of the global economy.

Graduates acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical abilities essential for designing, fabricating, implementing, and operating electronic circuits, equipment, and systems, as well as telecommunication systems, networks, and services. The programme aims not only to teach students to use modern technologies and computer-aided design tools but also to create new technologies and computer tools — positioning graduates as innovators rather than mere practitioners.

Practical Orientation

The programme features a large practical component through well-equipped labs, computer-aided design projects, and hands-on classes. A mandatory four-week internship in an enterprise or specialized service-providing company ensures students connect classroom learning with professional reality. Courses in economics are included to prepare graduates for active participation in economic life, including the possibility of starting their own businesses.

At €5,170 per year, this programme reflects the higher resource requirements of electronics and telecommunications education — including access to specialized lab equipment and testing facilities — while remaining extremely competitive compared to similar programmes in Western Europe or North America.

Logistic Management Master’s Programme

The Logistic Management specialization within the Management and Production programme is a 4-semester (2-year) Master’s degree offered by the Faculty of Management. At just €2,000 per year, this is the most affordable of AGH’s English-taught programmes and represents exceptional value for students seeking a management-oriented engineering education.

Programme Structure

The programme delivers 845 total class hours distributed across lectures (270 hours), classes (365 hours), and laboratories (210 hours). This balanced structure ensures students develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills. The significant laboratory component reflects AGH’s commitment to hands-on, applied education even in management-focused programmes.

Graduate Competencies

Graduates of the Logistic Management programme develop a comprehensive skill set spanning:

• Knowledge of modern logistic systems and their functioning
• Economic sciences, organization, and management fundamentals
• Designing logistic systems and processes using engineering methods
• Managing specialist logistic functions and processes
• Applying computer-aided logistic management systems
• Managing costs, finance, and capital in logistics operations
• Personnel selection and training within logistic organizations

This programme bridges the gap between pure management education and engineering — similar in philosophy to programmes like Seoul National University’s graduate programmes that combine technical depth with management breadth. The engineering-based approach to logistics management gives AGH graduates a distinctive profile valued by employers in manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain sectors.

Mining Engineering Master’s Specialization

The Mining Engineering specialization within the Mining and Geology programme is a 4-semester (2-year) Master’s degree offered by the Faculty of Mining and Geoengineering. At €5,800 per year, this is AGH’s premium programme, reflecting Poland’s deep mining heritage and AGH’s world-class expertise in extractive industries.

Poland has been a major mining nation for centuries, and AGH (whose name translates to “Academy of Mining and Metallurgy”) was founded specifically to advance mining education and research. This legacy means students benefit from institutional expertise accumulated over decades, access to some of the world’s most modern mining operations, and faculty with extensive industry experience.

Curriculum Coverage

The programme covers mining technology, mechanization, geomechanics, blasting techniques, and critical safety areas including rock burst prevention, roof fall management, underground fire prevention, and methane control. Students also study geological background, numerical modeling and simulation using the newest software, and mining economics, organization, and management.

A unique feature is practical training in Poland’s very modern mines, providing hands-on experience in real mining environments. This practical component, combined with comprehensive theoretical education, produces graduates with “full qualifications entitling them to hold top management positions in a mine” as well as employment in research and scientific centers for the mining industry. The programme emphasizes modern computer techniques alongside traditional mining knowledge, as documented by AGH’s official website.

Summer Programmes and Short-Term Courses at AGH

Beyond its degree programmes, AGH offers several summer and short-term programmes that provide international students with a taste of engineering education in Krakow without committing to a full degree.

Summer Semester in Krakow

This 7-week programme (typically June 1 to July 17) is designed primarily for American students. Participants take selected courses arranged by AGH and taught in English. The programme creates a unique opportunity to learn about Central Europe and Poland while earning academic credits. This programme is run in partnership with San Diego State University (SDSU) and Miami University (Ohio).

Cursos de Veranos (Summer Courses)

This 4-week programme is taught in both English and Spanish, targeting students from the Americas, particularly Mexico. Activities include laboratory hours and excursions to industrial plants. The total cost is approximately $1,300 (course fee $900 + excursions $400 for a group of 24 students), making it one of the most affordable summer engineering programmes in Europe.

Summer School of Mining Engineering

This intensive 2-week programme (typically late July) covers underground hard coal mining, metal ore mining, open cast mining, salt mining, mining economics, occupational risk, environmental aspects, ventilation, and geomechanics. At just €350 (including participation, accommodation, and technical trips), it offers exceptional value for students interested in the mining industry. The programme provides hands-on exposure to Poland’s diverse mining operations.

Tuition Fees and Cost Comparison at AGH University

AGH University’s tuition structure is straightforward and transparent, with all programmes requiring a one-time €200 enrolment fee plus annual tuition that varies by programme.

To put these figures in context: a 2-year Logistic Management Master’s at AGH costs €4,200 total (including enrolment). An equivalent programme at a UK university might cost £15,000–£25,000 per year, and at a US institution $30,000–$60,000 per year. Even compared to other European destinations, AGH’s pricing is remarkably competitive while maintaining strong academic standards and industry recognition.

Combined with Krakow’s low living costs (approximately €500–€700 per month for accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment), a full Master’s degree at AGH — including living expenses — can cost less than a single year of tuition at many Western universities.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

AGH University maintains a relatively straightforward admission process for its English-taught programmes, though specific requirements vary by faculty and programme level.

Bachelor’s Programme Requirements

Applicants for the Mechatronics and Electronics and Telecommunications Bachelor’s programmes need a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) with demonstrated competence in mathematics and sciences. As all programmes are taught in English, a working command of English is expected, though the brochure does not specify formal language test requirements.

Master’s Programme Requirements

All Master’s programmes (Mechatronic Design, Logistic Management, and Mining Engineering) require a BSc degree or equivalent diploma. The Mechatronic Design programme naturally expects a background in mechatronics or a closely related engineering discipline, while Logistic Management is open to BSc graduates from various technical and management backgrounds.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the respective faculty enrolment boards. Each faculty maintains its own admission office with dedicated contact persons. International applicants should contact the AGH International Students Office for guidance on documentation requirements, visa procedures, and accommodation options. Early application is recommended as places in English-taught programmes are limited.

Student Life in Krakow and Campus Experience

Krakow is consistently ranked among Europe’s best student cities, offering an exceptional combination of cultural richness, vibrant social life, and remarkably affordable living costs. For international students at AGH University, the city provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive educational and cultural experience.

The city’s historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the famous Wawel Castle, Main Market Square (the largest medieval town square in Europe), and centuries of layered history. Yet Krakow is far from a museum piece — it boasts a dynamic contemporary culture with thriving arts, music, and culinary scenes. The Kazimierz district, once the historic Jewish quarter, is now Krakow’s hippest neighbourhood with galleries, cafes, and nightlife.

For students, the practical advantages are significant. Monthly living costs typically range from €500 to €700, covering accommodation in student dormitories or shared apartments, food, public transportation, and entertainment. This is roughly 50-70% less than living costs in cities like London, Paris, or Munich. The city’s compact layout means most of daily life is accessible by tram, bus, or bicycle.

AGH’s campus on Mickiewicza Avenue is centrally located, providing easy access to Krakow’s cultural institutions, transportation hubs, and student districts. The university’s well-equipped laboratories and computing facilities ensure students have access to modern tools and technologies. Beyond academics, AGH’s growing international student community provides opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and lifelong international networks. Check our full directory of university programme guides for more options across Europe and Asia.