Program description

The Polish program teaches cultural literacy by providing language competence and a knowledge of texts, films and other forms of representation. Students are able to enter the language programs at any level: beginner, intermediate or advanced. Intensive language training is provided with the aid of audio-visual materials and use of a computerized language laboratory. The Polish literature and culture program aims at providing familiarity with the major texts and issues in cultural and literary history. The goal is also to enrich the student's understanding of the Slavic/Polish contribution to the European and the North American cultural heritage. The culture and literature courses are taught in English translation, open to everybody interested in Polish heritage and culture

Program options

Degree options

Polish is offered as a minor option and is open to students in all faculties.

Interesting courses and unique opportunities

Interesting courses

• Special Topics in Polish Literature and Culture
• Two survey courses on Polish culture
• "Love, Heroes and Patriotism in Contemporary Poland "

Exchange opportunities

A bi-annual summer course at the Jagiellonian University of Krakow (full-credit recognition in the Polish program)

Professional opportunities

Language and culture training have proven particularly valuable for those students who, by linking their linguistic ability to another skill, have found jobs in the expanding market for those with knowledge of Eastern Europe. Such jobs are available from the secretarial to the senior executive level. From the immersion in another culture, students become more effective communicators.Our graduates have used the skills and contacts they have gained in order to begin careers in:

• Education
• Communications
• Translation
• Government / immigration
• Business / commerce
• Higher education
• Libraries
• Journalism
• Publishing

What is unique about this program at the U of M?

The Polish Minor (B.A.) is the only such degree in Manitoba. The department has recently revised its Polish offerings to provide besides three years of Polish language courses. A selection of up-to-date interdisciplinary Polish literature and culture courses for students from second and third generation immigrants as well as for all other students interested in Polish heritage. The Polish program also features unique language teaching materials in classes and language labs.

One of the programs' particular strengths is the bi-annual summer course at the Jagiellonian University of Krakow, allowing students to immerse into life in Poland. The program is currently developing a student exchange with another Polish university.

The program has a strong Endowment support from the Polish government and from the Polish-Canadian community in Winnipeg. Its activities are exceptionally well integrated in the community which offers students numerous opportunities to link university studies and community work. Students can also receive numerous awards for academic excellence in Polish courses.