Case Study 40

The University of the Third Age of the Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland

Supplied by Helena Wieckowska and students of the University of the Third Age of the Jagiellonian University , Krakow .

Comment: Many universities have special continuing education programmes for older students. However, the University of the Third Age of the Jagiellonian University has some distinctive features which make it an excellent example of UCE, with enthusiastic, impressive students of all ages over 40.

The University of the Third Age (UTA) was established by the Jagiellonian University and the Collegium Medicum in 1982, with the support of the Rector. It is an interdepartmental unit to popularise academic study among elderly people. It was allocated rooms in one of the main buildings of the University. Tuition is free. The UTA now has about 3,000 students. Of its students the majority are women and about half already have university degrees.

1. The Academic Programmes
2. Leadership
3. Support of the University
4. Other UTA activities
5. Programme management
6. Outcomes