University of Pécs

The University of Pécs (Pécsi Tudományegyetem) is one of Hungary’s oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions, tracing its origins back to 1367, when the first university in Hungary was founded in Pécs under the decree of King Louis the Great and Pope Urban V. This makes it not only the first university in Hungary but also one of the earliest universities in Europe. Today, the University of Pécs has evolved into a modern, comprehensive, and internationally recognized public research university, combining centuries of academic tradition with cutting-edge research and innovation.

The university operates through 10 faculties and a Clinical Centre, offering a broad spectrum of disciplines, including medicine, law, economics, humanities, music and visual arts, health sciences, natural sciences, education, business, and engineering. With this diverse academic structure, the University of Pécs provides nearly 500 study programs, making it one of the most versatile institutions in Hungary. Programs are available at all levels of higher education within the framework of the Bologna Process, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, as well as one-tier undivided master’s programs in fields such as medicine, law, architecture, and arts.

The Medical School of the University of Pécs is particularly renowned, attracting a large international student body from over 100 countries. It offers full English-language programs in General Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy, making Pécs one of the top destinations for medical studies in Central Europe. Other faculties also provide a wide range of English-taught programs, such as business administration, international relations, engineering, applied sciences, psychology, and the arts, reflecting the university’s strong international orientation.

The research profile of the University of Pécs is equally impressive, with a focus on interdisciplinary and innovative projects. As a member of international academic networks, the university actively participates in European Union research and mobility programs such as Erasmus+, providing students and staff with extensive opportunities to study, teach, and conduct research abroad. The institution is also part of the European University Alliance for Global Health (EUGLOH), a network that connects leading universities across Europe to work on global health challenges.

With approximately 20,000 students, including over 5,000 international students, and more than 1,400 academic staff members, the University of Pécs is one of the largest and most diverse universities in Hungary. Its student community is vibrant, multicultural, and highly engaged, making the campus atmosphere welcoming and inspiring.

The university’s main campus is located in Pécs, a historic city in southern Hungary, known for its Roman heritage, Ottoman architecture, rich cultural life, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pécs was named a European Capital of Culture in 2010, and the university plays a central role in the city’s cultural and intellectual life. Students benefit from the dynamic urban environment, affordable cost of living, and safe surroundings, all of which make Pécs an attractive study destination.

Overall, the University of Pécs combines historical legacy, academic excellence, and global outlook, offering students an education that prepares them not only for successful careers but also for meaningful contributions to society. With its emphasis on research, innovation, and international collaboration, it continues to uphold its centuries-old mission of advancing knowledge and fostering intellectual growth.