Physics Programme code: W4-S2FZ19.2025

Field of study: | Physics |
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Programme code: | W4-S2FZ19.2025 |
Programme code (USOS): | W4-S2FZ19 |
Faculty: | Faculty of Science and Technology |
Language of study: | Polish |
Academic year of entry: | winter semester 2025/2026 |
Level of qualifications/degree: | second-cycle studies |
Mode of study: | full-time |
Degree profile: | general academic |
Number of semesters: | 4 |
Degree: | magister (Master's Degree) |
Specializations: |
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Semester from which the specializations starts: | 2 |
Number of ECTS credits required to achieve the qualification equivalent to the level of study: | 120 |
Leading discipline: | physical sciences (natural sciences) |
ISCED code: | 0533 |
The number and date of the Senate’s resolution: | 107/2025 (20/05/2025) |
General characteristics of the field of study and the assumed concept of education: | Physics as a scientific discipline combines fundamental research into the laws of nature with their practical applications in modern technologies, constituting one of the key areas of contemporary science. Physical research, encompassing the discovery of new phenomena, analysis of matter structure and interactions, and the development of scientific theories, leads to groundbreaking changes across various fields of life.
The second-cycle studies in Physics are conducted at the A. Chełkowski Institute of Physics at the University of Silesia - a recognized research unit of international renown, confirmed by the A scientific category awarded by the Evaluation Committee of Scientific Units. The study program enables students to deepen their physics knowledge and develop specialized competencies through the selection of specializations and individual educational paths that consider current labor market needs. The curriculum develops key skills including data analysis, design and conduct of scientific research, technical communication, and the use of advanced computational tools. In the area of optometry - one of the program's specializations - the focus is on practical preparation for the profession of optometrist.
The unique character of the education stems from an interdisciplinary and flexible teaching model that combines theoretical classes with practical workshops, industry collaboration, and opportunities to participate in research projects and international student exchange programs. Classes are taught by experienced researchers with significant scientific achievements, ensuring high-quality education confirmed by PKA accreditation. Graduates are prepared for employment in scientific centers, high-tech industry, and modern technology sectors, including optics, optometry and medical applications, possessing competencies valued in both academic and commercial environments. |
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Graduation requirements: | The condition for admission to the diploma examination is to achieve the learning outcomes provided for in the study program, to obtain a certificate of an appropriate level of language proficiency in a foreign language and to obtain positive grades for the diploma dissertation. The condition for graduation is to pass the diploma examination with at least a satisfactory result. A graduate receives a higher education diploma confirming obtaining the qualifications of the appropriate degree.
Detailed rules of the diploma process and the requirements for the diploma thesis are set out in the Rules and Regulations of Studies at the University of Silesia and the diploma regulations. |
Information on the relationship between the studies and the university's strategy as well as the socio-economic needs that determine the conduct of studies and the compliance of learning outcomes with these needs: | The second-cycle studies in Physics, offered through the specializations of Fundamental and Applied Physics and Optometry, are fully integrated with the Development Strategy of the University of Silesia in Katowice while addressing key socioeconomic needs expressed in strategic documents such as the Poland 2030 Development Strategy, the Silesian Voivodeship Development Strategy, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The study program aligns with four strategic educational objectives outlined in the University's Strategy, focusing on modifying the educational offer to strengthen its connection with research activities, internationalizing the education process, individualizing educational pathways, and enhancing teaching quality through modern didactic methods.
The introduction of the Fundamental and Applied Physics specialization responds to labor market demands for highly qualified specialists by combining advanced scientific research in theoretical and applied physics with practical applications across various economic sectors. The Optometry specialization addresses growing societal needs in eye health protection, training specialists equipped with interdisciplinary knowledge in physics, biology, and medicine along with practical skills in modern optometric technologies.
Both specializations are directly linked to the University's Priority Research Areas, particularly in health protection, innovative technology development, and fundamental research on matter properties. The teaching approach for both specializations employs modern didactic methods including problem- and project-based learning, active student participation in research, and collaboration with scientific and industrial institutions, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for labor market demands.
Systematic quality evaluation conducted through both the University's internal Quality Assurance System and external assessments by the Polish Accreditation Committee guarantees continuous program improvement and alignment with current socioeconomic requirements and international educational standards. |
Specialization: | Fundamental and Applied Physics |
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General description of the specialization: | Second-cycle studies in Fundamental and Applied Physics offer a wide selection of courses covering all major areas of contemporary physics. The program aims to prepare graduates for various career paths in research institutes, R&D units, and modern industry, as well as for continued education in doctoral schools. The curriculum includes a limited number of compulsory courses and an extensive offering of specialized diploma modules selected by students and their thesis advisors. The course offerings within diploma modules are approved annually by the Program Council.
Diploma modules are organized into three main blocks: Diploma Module Block I, II, and III, comprising lectures, laboratories, seminars, and master's thesis seminars. Each block contains elective modules totaling 180 lecture hours and 180 complementary hours of seminars or laboratory work. Module selection should align with the master's thesis topic. Students may focus on a specific specialization or choose topics from various subject areas. The proposed modules reflect the research activities of the Institute of Physics in theoretical physics, experimental physics, nuclear and particle physics, and biophysics, as well as interdisciplinary topics and physics applications across various fields.
The diploma module blocks include thematic pathways to facilitate focused study:
The theoretical physics pathway includes: Quantum Field Theory, Quantum Information Theory, Statistical Physics II, Solid State Physics, Standard Model, Quantum Optics, Soft Matter Physics, Relativity Theory, and specialized lectures.
The experimental physics pathway contains modules such as: Electronics, Materials Technology, Functional Materials, Experimental Methods in Condensed Matter Physics I and II, Technical Aspects of Scientific Research, Surface Physicochemistry, 3D Technologies, Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies, and Numerical Modeling of Solids.
The nuclear physics pathway consists of: Electronics, Nuclear Energy (including energy sources, deposit geology, nuclear fuel), Introduction to Nuclear Physics, Particle Detectors, Computer Methods in Nuclear Research, and nuclear safety topics.
The pharmaceutical engineering pathway includes: Soft Matter Physics, Drug Physicochemistry, Drug Formulation Technology, Computer Modeling in Drug Research, and nanomaterials in pharmacy.
The pharmaceutical biophysics pathway focuses on: Photophysics and Photochemistry, Biophysics in Cosmetology, Cancer Biology, Advanced Microscopy Techniques, and molecular basis of biological complex studies.
The program allows for inclusion of modules offered by international partners and pathway modifications according to student needs and interests.
Graduate Profile - Fundamental and Applied Physics
Graduates of the Fundamental and Applied Physics specialization possess comprehensive theoretical and practical preparation enabling employment in scientific institutes, R&D centers, and high-tech enterprises. They demonstrate advanced knowledge of contemporary physics and skills in applying modern research methods and computational tools to solve complex scientific and technological problems. Graduates are prepared to conduct independent research, work in interdisciplinary research teams, and continue education in doctoral studies with competencies essential for scientific career development. Additionally, their acquired analytical and project management skills make them attractive candidates in industrial sectors requiring advanced physics and technical knowledge. |
Internships (hours and conditions): | Internships are an integral part of the study program, carried out by students in individual fields, levels, profiles and forms of study. Internships are to help in confronting the knowledge acquired during studies with the requirements of the labour market, acquiring skills useful in the profession, learning about practical issues related to working in positions for which the student is prepared during the course of studies. The internship is to familiarize the student with professional language relevant to a specific industry and work culture.
The rules for the organization of internships are set out in the Rector's ordinance. Detailed rules of apprenticeship taking into account the specifics of particular fields of study are set out in the field's of study apprenticeship regulations, in particular: learning outcomes assumed to be achieved by the student during the apprenticeship, framework apprenticeship program including a description of issues, dimension of apprenticeship (number of weeks of practice); form of internship (continuous, mid-year), criteria for choosing the place of internship, obligations of the student staying in the internship, obligations of the academic tutor, conditions for completing the internship by the student and conditions for exemption from the internship obligation in whole or in part.
The number of ECTS and the number of hours are specified in the course structure. |
Percentage of the ECTS credits for each of the scientific or artistic disciplines to which the learning outcomes are related to the total number of ECTS credits: | physical sciences (natural sciences): 100% |
Specialization: | Optometry |
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General description of the specialization: | Second-cycle studies in Optometry constitute an interdisciplinary program combining physics, biology, and medicine to train highly qualified optometry specialists. Responding to current labor market needs, the program balances thorough theoretical preparation with practical professional training. The primary objective is to educate graduates competent in performing comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosing vision disorders, prescribing appropriate vision correction methods (including glasses and contact lenses), and conducting specialized vision rehabilitation.
The program structure includes compulsory modules and diploma modules beginning in the second semester. Diploma modules are organized into three blocks (I-III) comprising various course formats: lectures, laboratories, seminars, and master's thesis seminars, totaling 180 lecture hours and 180 complementary seminar or laboratory hours.
The Optometry program design enables students to master fundamental optometric knowledge while developing individual research interests. Program flexibility allows for thesis topic selection, permitting partial customization of study paths according to personal preferences and career plans.
Special emphasis is placed on vision processes, their protection, enhancement, and development, ensuring comprehensive graduate preparation for diagnosing vision defects and applying appropriate correction methods. The curriculum covers areas including: visual system anatomy, physiology and pathologies; advanced optometric measurement techniques; clinical optometry; and vision rehabilitation techniques. Practical training components include: refraction workshops; visual aid fitting practice; diagnostic equipment exercises; and mandatory internships at eye care facilities.
The program also provides international development opportunities through academic exchange programs and collaboration with leading foreign research and clinical centers specializing in optometry and ophthalmology.
Graduate Profile - Optometry
Graduates of the Optometry specialization possess interdisciplinary knowledge in physics, biology, and medicine qualifying them for professional optometry practice. They demonstrate specialized skills in visual system diagnostics, vision correction methods selection, and vision rehabilitation using cutting-edge techniques and diagnostic equipment. Graduates are prepared for employment in optometric practices, eye diagnostics centers, optical industry, and R&D facilities, as well as for continuing education in related doctoral programs. Furthermore, their competencies in modern optometric techniques and patient care make them sought-after professionals in healthcare and modern medical technology sectors. |
Internships (hours and conditions): | Internships are an integral part of the study program, carried out by students in individual fields, levels, profiles and forms of study. Internships are to help in confronting the knowledge acquired during studies with the requirements of the labour market, acquiring skills useful in the profession, learning about practical issues related to working in positions for which the student is prepared during the course of studies. The internship is to familiarize the student with professional language relevant to a specific industry and work culture.
The rules for the organization of internships are set out in the Rector's ordinance. Detailed rules of apprenticeship taking into account the specifics of particular fields of study are set out in the field's of study apprenticeship regulations, in particular: learning outcomes assumed to be achieved by the student during the apprenticeship, framework apprenticeship program including a description of issues, dimension of apprenticeship (number of weeks of practice); form of internship (continuous, mid-year), criteria for choosing the place of internship, obligations of the student staying in the internship, obligations of the academic tutor, conditions for completing the internship by the student and conditions for exemption from the internship obligation in whole or in part.
The number of ECTS and the number of hours are specified in the course structure. |
Percentage of the ECTS credits for each of the scientific or artistic disciplines to which the learning outcomes are related to the total number of ECTS credits: | physical sciences (natural sciences): 100% |
KNOWLEDGE The graduate: |
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properly understands the civilisational importance of physics and its applications as well as its historical development and the role in the progress of science [KF_W01] |
has an in-depth knowledge of selected branches of theoretical and experimental physics [KF_W02] |
has an extended knowledge of quantum mechanics and statistical physics [KF_W03] |
has an in-depth knowledge of condensed phase physics [KF_W04] |
knows and understands the description of physical phenomena within selected theoretical models; can independently reproduce basic physical laws [KF_W05] |
knows mathematical formalism useful in constructing and analysing physical models of medium complexity; understands the consequences of using approximate methods [KF_W06] |
knows computational and IT techniques supporting the work of a physicist and understands their limitations [KF_W07] |
knows the construction and functioning of apparatus [KF_W08] |
knows the basic principles of occupational health and safety to the extent that allows independent work at the research or measurement position [KF_W09] |
has in-depth knowledge of issues characteristic of a scientific discipline unrelated to the field of study, particularly knows and understands the principles of industrial property protection and copyright, as well as basic forms of entrepreneurship [KF_W10] |
has in-depth knowledge of selected scientific methods and knows problems characteristic of a particular field of science unrelated to the leading discipline of the study programme [W_OOD] |
SKILLS The graduate: |
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is able to clearly present the results of scientific discoveries and theories in the field of physics in speech and writing [KF_U01] |
can use a mathematical apparatus to solve physical problems of medium complexity [KF_U02] |
can explain the physical processes occurring in the surrounding world based on the knowledge gained [KF_U03] |
can explain the functioning of apparatus based on the knowledge gained [KF_U04] |
can plan and conduct various physical measurements and experiments, both independently and as a member or leader of a team [KF_U05] |
is able to choose the right measurement method for a specific problem and the expected effect [KF_U06] |
is able to critically analyse and interpret the results of measurements, observations and theoretical calculations [KF_U07] |
can discuss measurement errors, identify their sources and assess the consequences [KF_U08] |
can use mathematical formalism to build and analyse physical models [KF_U09] |
can describe micro and macroscopic properties of the matter based on the knowledge gained and the research conducted [KF_U10] |
is able to prepare the elaboration of the study results, including explanation of the aim of the study, adopted methodology, description, analysis and discussion of the results obtained and their significance compared to similar studies [KF_U11] |
is able to obtain information from literature, databases and other sources; is familiar with basic scientific journals in physics; is able to integrate and interpret the obtained information, draw conclusions and formulate and justify opinions [KF_U12] |
has a sufficient command of English (B2+) to use the specialist literature and to present research results [KF_U13] |
is able to apply the obtained knowledge in physics to the discussion of problems in related scientific fields and disciplines [KF_U14] |
has an in-depth ability to prepare various written studies in Polish and English on specific physics-related issues or issues from different scientific disciplines [KF_U15] |
has an in-depth ability to prepare and present an oral presentation on physics or interdisciplinary issues in Polish and English, using modern multimedia techniques [KF_U16] |
is able to determine the directions of further learning and implement the process of self-education e.g. to improve professional competence [KF_U17] |
has an in-depth ability to pose and analyse problems based on the content acquired from the discipline of science not related to the programme [KF_U18] |
communicates in a foreign language using advanced language communication competences and has the ability to comprehensively read complex scientific texts and an in-depth ability to prepare various written works (including research) and oral presentations on specific issues in a given programme in a foreign language [KF_U19] |
has advanced skills to set scientific questions and analyse problems or to solve problems practically on the basis of the course content, experience and skills gained in a particular field of science unrelated to the leading discipline of the study programme [U_OOD] |
SOCIAL COMPETENCES The graduate: |
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understands the need for further education and can inspire and organise the learning process of others [KF_K01] |
is able to precisely formulate questions to deepen their own understanding of a given topic or to find the missing elements of reasoning [KF_K02] |
is able to work in a group adopting different roles; is able to identify priorities for conducting the task specified by themselves or others [KF_K03] |
understands the need for regular reading of scientific and popular science journals to broaden and deepen the knowledge of physics [KF_K04] |
understands and appreciates the importance of intellectual honesty in their own and others’ actions; acts ethically [KF_K05] |
is aware of the responsibility for the research initiatives undertaken; understands the social aspects of applying acquired knowledge and is ready to initiate actions for the public interest [KF_K06] |
is able to engage in substantive discussion, recognizing the importance of knowledge and expert opinions [KF_K07] |
can think and act in an entrepreneurial way [KF_K08] |
understands the need for an interdisciplinary approach to solving problems, integrating knowledge from different disciplines and practising selfeducation to deepen the acquired knowledge [KF_K09] |
understands the need for multidisciplinary approach to problem solving, integrating knowledge or using skills from various disciplines, and practicing self-study for deepening the acquired knowledge [KS_OOD] |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Computer Programming [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-01] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 60 | 7 |
Modern Experimental Physics Methods [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-03] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 45
laboratory classes: 45 |
8 |
Selected Issues of Theoretical Physics / Quantum Mechanics III |
lecture: 45
depending on the choice: 45 |
8 | ||
Other Requirements | ||||
Entrepreneurship and Intellectual Property Management [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-16] | Polish | course work | lecture: 30 | 3 |
Scientific English [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-15] | English | exam | discussion classes: 30 | 4 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Computer Programming [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-01] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 60 | 7 |
Modern Experimental Physics Methods [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-03] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 45
laboratory classes: 45 |
8 |
Selected Issues of Theoretical Physics / Quantum Mechanics III |
lecture: 45
depending on the choice: 45 |
8 | ||
Other Requirements | ||||
Entrepreneurship and Intellectual Property Management [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-16] | Polish | course work | lecture: 30 | 3 |
Scientific English [W4-FZ-S2-1-25-15] | English | exam | discussion classes: 30 | 4 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Machine Learning [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-04] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 45 | 6 |
Master Thesis Laboratory I [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-06] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 30 | 4 |
Master Thesis Seminar I [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-07] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses I [W4-FZ-FS-S2-2-25-05] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 120
laboratory classes: 120 |
18 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Machine Learning [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-04] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 45 | 6 |
Master Thesis Laboratory I [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-06] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 30 | 4 |
Master Thesis Seminar I [W4-FZ-S2-2-25-07] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Binocular Vision part 1 [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05G] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 15 |
2 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Biology and Biochemistry of the Visual System [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05E] | Polish | course work |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Microbiology in Ophthalmology [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05F] | Polish | course work | lecture: 15 | 1 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Modern Methods of Ophthalmological Diagnostics [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05C] | Polish | course work |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: New Technologies in Ophthalmic Optics and Optometry [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05B] | Polish | course work | lecture: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Optometric Examination part 1 [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05A] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 45 |
4 |
Set of Diploma Courses I: Physiology and Pathology of the Visual Organ [W4-FZ-OM-S2-2-25-05D] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Master Thesis Laboratory II [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-09] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 30 | 4 |
Master Thesis Seminar II [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-10] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses II [W4-FZ-FS-S2-3-25-08] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 120
laboratory classes: 120 |
18 |
Other Requirements | ||||
General Academic Module in Humanities [HMO2] | Polish | course work | depending on the choice: 30 | 3 |
General Academic Module in Social Sciences [SMO1] | Polish | course work | depending on the choice: 30 | 3 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Master Thesis Laboratory II [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-09] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 30 | 4 |
Master Thesis Seminar II [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-10] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Binocular Vision part 2 [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08A] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Contactology [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08E] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 30 |
3 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Eye Surgery [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08F] | Polish | course work |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 5 |
1 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Geriatric Optometry and Visual Aids [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08C] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 30
laboratory classes: 15 |
4 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Ophthalmic Pharmacology [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08D] | Polish | course work | lecture: 30 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses II: Optometric Examination part 2 [W4-FZ-OM-S2-3-25-08B] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 15
laboratory classes: 60 |
5 |
Other Requirements | ||||
General Academic Module in Humanities [HMO2] | Polish | course work | depending on the choice: 30 | 3 |
General Academic Module in Social Sciences [SMO1] | Polish | course work | depending on the choice: 30 | 3 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Master Thesis Laboratory III [W4-FZ-S2-4-25-12] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 120 | 13 |
Master Thesis Seminar III [W4-FZ-S2-4-25-13] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses III [W4-FZ-FS-S2-4-25-11] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 60
laboratory classes: 60 |
12 |
Internships and Field Work | ||||
Internships in Research Teams or Industry [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-14] | Polish | course work | internship: 90 | 3 |
Module | Language of instruction | Form of verification | Number of hours | ECTS credits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic Modules | ||||
Master Thesis Laboratory III [W4-FZ-S2-4-25-12] | Polish | course work | laboratory classes: 120 | 13 |
Master Thesis Seminar III [W4-FZ-S2-4-25-13] | Polish | course work | seminar: 15 | 2 |
Set of Diploma Courses III: Optometric Examination part 3 [W4-FZ-OM-S2-4-25-11A] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 20
laboratory classes: 30 |
6 |
Set of Diploma Courses III: Pediatric Optometry [W4-FZ-OM-S2-4-25-11C] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 20
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Set of Diploma Courses III: Specialist Contactology [W4-FZ-OM-S2-4-25-11B] | Polish | exam |
lecture: 20
laboratory classes: 15 |
3 |
Internships and Field Work | ||||
Internships in Research Teams or Industry [W4-FZ-S2-3-25-14] | Polish | course work | internship: 90 | 3 |