Palacký University Olomouc

Palacký University Olomouc is the oldest university in Moravia and the second oldest in the Czech Republic. Its history goes back to 1573. The development of Olomouc's university throughout four centuries has reflected the milestones in European and Czech history.  

In 2020, 21,824 students studied in 840 accredited study programmes at eight faculties that offer 840 Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral study programmes. Applicants may choose from a broad variety of programmes, ranging from theology, education, physical culture and sports, through humanities, social sciences and arts, to natural, medical, and health sciences. The credit system at UP is fully compatible with ECTS – The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System. The prestigious status of the university in Olomouc is confirmed each year by the vast numbers of young applicants, as well as mature students such as seniors and other interested persons.

The doctoral study programmes are organized by the Olomouc University Social Health Institute (OUSHI) and the Faculty of Theology. Some of the research areas are as follows: qualitative research in the field of health, certified DIPEx methodology, cultural psychology and ethnic minority research, spirituality, public health, health and personality, Church history and applied ethics, Christian philosophy and others.

OUSHI is currently a partner in a Horizon 2020 project called SHAPES, researching age friendliness and the use of technology to improve the life of senior citizens.

The aim of the social and spiritual determinants of the health programme is to prepare graduates for independent research in selected specializations with the use of the bio-psycho-socio-spiritual model of health, who should be able to critically examine, develop and place the information into the current and international specialized context. Prospective employers include academia, public health organizations, governmental bodies, NGOs.  

Students of the theology programmes will find employment in academic, research, administrative or pastoral positions within the entire Catholic Church.