Pedagogical University of Cracow

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Pedagogical University of Cracow
Akademia Pedagogiczna w Krakowie


Established:	1946
Type:	Public
Rector:	Prof. Henryk W. Żaliński
Students:	5800
Location:	Kraków, Poland
Campus:	Urban
Website:	http://www.ap.krakow.pl/new/eng/

Pedagogical University of Cracow (Polish: Akademia Pedagogiczna im. Komisji Edukacji Narodowej w Krakowie, often shortened to Akademia Pedagogiczna), located in Kraków, Poland, was founded on May 11, 1946, as the National Higher College of Teacher Training and since gained notoriety for training highly-qualified teaching staff for the local educational system.

[edit] History

Initially, the Academy trained elementary school teachers; with the curriculum spanning over a period of 3 years. As early as in 1949, it began training secondary school teachers and was split into a new organizational structure based on departments. The academic posts were appointed, including those of the Senate, the Department Councils, the Rector, Vice-Rectors and the Deans.

In 1954 the college received the title of a Higher College. Curriculum increased to 4 years and students graduated with a Master's degree. The Polish October political transformations of 1956 resulted in the college gaining significant autonomy. For the first time the Rector was elected and not nominated. The first elected Rector was Prof. dr Wincenty Danek. Under his administration, the Higher College of Teacher Training rapidly developed and earned even more reputation. From the academic year 1958/1959 studies were extended to 5 years.

In 1959 the University received the right to offer doctorate degree programs and in 1967 the right to confer the degree of habilitated doctor.

In 1989 a period of political and social transformations resulted in the Academy receiving complete independence and self-government. On October 1st, 1999, the college was renamed to the Pedagogical University of Cracow of the National Education Commission (Akademia Pedagogiczna im. Komisji Edukacji Narodowej w Krakowie).