First-cycle studies are dedicated for those who complete secondary school and want to obtain Bachelor's degree. Duration is 3 to 3,5 years. NCU offers one Bachelor programme taught in English. Bachelor's degree holders are allowed to continue education at second-cycle studies and obtain Master's degree. Duration is 1,5 to 2 years. MA studies offered by NCU are conducted mainly in Polish but some of them also in English.
In the some fields of study there are long-cycle studies (e.g. Medicine, Law, Art conservation and restoration), which duration is 6 years. Completing this cycle students obtain Master's degree and it is equal in terms of qualification the Master's degree at the second-cycle studies.
Third-cycle studies (Doctoral schools) are designed for those who are interested in research and science. To enter this studies candidate must have Master's degree. Duration is 4 years.
Chart below presents a summary of degrees divided into years and types of courses. All basic studies up to 3-3,5 years are referred to as undergraduate whereas all of those which require Bachelor’s degree are referred to as graduate. All studies above Master’s degree are referred to as postgraduate or doctoral.