The University Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (UCBS) is a university-wide organisational unit of the University of Warsaw, in addition to a department or doctoral school. The Centre was established on 15 February 1989, and in 2014 the phrase ‘and Sustainable Development’ was added to the original name University Centre for Research on the Environment. Since November 2018, the position of Acting Director of UCBS, and since 1.03.2021. Director, was assumed by Dr Mariola Zalewska from the Faculty of Management.

The organisation of the educational process at UCBS is based on the harmonious involvement under the leadership of the University Centre for Research on the Natural Environment and Sustainable Development of various faculties of the University of Warsaw. Today there are 7 Faculties co-founding UCBS: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography and Regional Studies, Geology, Economic Sciences, Law and Administration, working in close cooperation with others, among others with the Faculty of Management.

UCBS runs two fields of study: The Inter-Faculty Studies in Environmental Protection (or MSOS) I and II degree (in Polish) and Sustainable Development II degree (in English).

Studies at UCBS, thanks to the modern and flexible educational offer, give a unique opportunity to freely shape one’s own academic path. We use modern educational techniques: case-studies, e-learning system, field trips and courses. We also guarantee professional practice in the country or abroad. MSOŚ students have a chance to take part in studies abroad within the EU ERASMUS+ Scholarship Programme. As part of the MOST Student Mobility Programme, we offer a part of studies at one, chosen from 29 universities in Poland. UCBS students may apply for participation in scholarship programmes and membership in UCBS Students’ Scientific Circles.

Thanks to diversity, our students have the opportunity to acquire a wide range of global competencies and practical skills that meet the needs of educating personnel with specific, diverse and versatile competencies. Our graduates are prepared to take up jobs in the public, private and non-profit sectors, in international or national organisations.

In addition to educational activities, the UCBS team is also engaged in research and popularization activities.