Unicorn University Prague Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: Unicorn University Prague—History and Significance
Unicorn University, located in Prague’s dynamic Vysočany district, is a pioneering private technical university recognized for its forward-thinking educational model and strong industry ties. Founded in 2007 by Unicorn a.s., a leading European IT company, the university was established to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice. Unicorn University has become a model of modern education in Central Europe, distinguished by its accredited online degree programs, international collaborations (including with CERN), and innovative, technology-driven campus environment. Visitors and prospective students alike can engage with cutting-edge facilities, participate in guided tours, and witness a vibrant academic community that is shaping the future of IT, business, and data science education (Wikipedia; CzechUniversities.com; Edarabia).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Founding and Early Development
- Academic Focus and Program Evolution
- Pioneering Online Education
- Industry Integration and Research Impact
- Internationalization and Student Diversity
- Visiting Unicorn University: Hours, Tours, and Campus Experience
- Reputation, Graduate Outcomes, and Societal Impact
- Architectural and Campus Significance
- Role in Czech Higher Education
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- Guide for Prospective Students and Academic Tourists
- Prague’s Historical Sites: Astronomical Clock & Charles Bridge
- Summary and Recommendations
- References
Founding and Early Development
Established in 2007 as Unicorn College, Unicorn University was envisioned as a vocationally oriented institution that would closely align academic learning with the fast-evolving demands of technology and business sectors. Founded by Unicorn a.s., its mission was to equip graduates with practical, industry-ready skills. In 2009, the university’s ownership was transferred to Unicorn Learning Centre a.s., with Unicorn a.s. remaining the sole owner (Wikipedia; CzechUniversities.com). The university’s strong industry links from inception set it apart from traditional Czech institutions, with real-world projects and internships integrated into the curriculum (Edarabia).
Academic Focus and Program Evolution
Unicorn University’s academic offerings are designed to meet labor market needs, initially centering on business management and information technology at the bachelor’s level. Over time, programs expanded to include data analysis and, from 2019/2020, master’s degrees. All bachelor’s programs are taught in both Czech and English, with a strong practical orientation that includes seminars, project-based learning, hackathons, and workshops. The university partners with leading companies such as Microsoft, Allianz, KPMG, IBM, and Raiffeisenbank, and offers a Double Degree program with the University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt (FHWS) in Germany (CzechUniversities.com; Edarabia; Wikipedia).
Pioneering Online Education
Unicorn University is at the forefront of online education in the Czech Republic. It was the first institution in the country accredited for fully online bachelor’s programs in Software Development and Business Management, beginning its first fully online semester in February 2021 (CzechUniversities.com; Unicorn Annual Report 2021). This move was both a strategic response to global trends and a commitment to accessibility, enabling students from more than 22 countries to study flexibly and remotely (CzechUniversities.com; Unicorn Annual Report 2021).
Industry Integration and Research Impact
A defining feature of Unicorn University is its deep integration with industry. Students are required to complete internships with prominent companies, resulting in a 100% employment rate among graduates. The university also participates in high-impact research, notably as the sole contractual developer for CERN’s ATLAS Product Database, connecting students with large-scale scientific projects and international research environments (Wikipedia). Additionally, Unicorn University has contributed to projects at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Internationalization and Student Diversity
Unicorn University fosters a diverse and international student community, with students from 22 countries and international partnerships supporting study abroad opportunities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas (Unicorn Annual Report 2021; Edarabia). Programs like Erasmus+ and Double Degrees support global academic mobility. Flexible study options are available for athletes and working professionals, further broadening accessibility (CzechUniversities.com).
Visiting Unicorn University: Hours, Tours, and Campus Experience
Location: KCD4, Kolbenova 942/38a, Vysočany, Prague 9 (CzechUniversities.com)
Visiting Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Visitors are encouraged to schedule their visits by contacting the admissions office in advance.
Campus Tours:
- Guided tours are available upon request for prospective students, parents, and groups.
- Virtual tours can be accessed through the university’s website.
Accessibility:
- The campus is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. Special arrangements can be made by contacting the university before visiting.
Nearby Attractions:
- The Vysočany district offers cultural venues, parks, and easy access to Prague’s city center, historic Old Town, and other landmarks via public transport.
Reputation, Graduate Outcomes, and Societal Impact
Unicorn University is highly regarded for its practical focus and industry alignment, producing graduates who are immediately employable—demonstrated by an absence of unemployed graduates in reports by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (Wikipedia). Its active alumni network supports mentoring and career development, with graduates excelling in multinational corporations, startups, and public organizations (StandYou).
Architectural and Campus Significance
The university operates from a modern campus featuring technology-enabled classrooms and internally developed online platforms to enhance interactive learning (Wikipedia; CzechUniversities.com). Past expansions into Parukářka and Holešovice reflect ongoing growth and adaptation.
Role in Czech Higher Education
Unicorn University stands as the only private university in the Czech Republic specializing in technical fields. Its achievements in online education, robust industry partnerships, and internationalization initiatives have positioned it as a leader and innovator in Czech and European higher education (Wikipedia; CzechUniversities.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can the public visit Unicorn University’s campus without prior appointment?
A1: Walk-ins are possible during business hours, but advance scheduling is recommended.
Q2: Does Unicorn University offer campus tours?
A2: Yes. Guided and virtual tours are available.
Q3: Are there any entrance fees or tickets required to visit the university?
A3: No, campus visits are free of charge.
Q4: Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
A4: Yes, facilities are designed for accessibility.
Q5: How can I apply to study at Unicorn University?
A5: Application details are available on the official website and through the admissions office.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Unicorn University embodies the future of higher education in the Czech Republic, offering a rich blend of academic rigor, practical training, and international engagement. Whether you are a prospective student, academic tourist, or education enthusiast, a visit to Unicorn University provides a firsthand look at innovative learning environments and the evolving landscape of technical education.
Plan your visit today:
Explore Unicorn University’s official website for up-to-date information on admissions, campus tours, and upcoming events. Download the Audiala app for news and campus updates, and follow the university on social media for the latest developments.
Guide for Prospective Students and Academic Tourists in Prague
Practical Visitor Information
- Guided Tours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (free, advance registration recommended)
- Open Days: Scheduled throughout the year, both onsite and virtual
- Public Events: Lectures, forums, and cultural activities are open to visitors with advance booking
Travel and Accessibility:
- The campus is well-connected via Prague’s public transport (metro and trams).
- Wheelchair accessible; international office can advise on accommodation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and local museums are within easy reach.
Special Events:
- Look out for academic forums, industry events, and student showcases.
Contact and Further Info:
Visit the Unicorn University website or reach out to the international office for personalized assistance.
Prague’s Historical Sites: Astronomical Clock & Charles Bridge
Prague Astronomical Clock
Overview
Located in Old Town Square, the Prague Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj) is the world’s oldest working astronomical clock, dating to 1410. This engineering marvel displays not only the time but also astronomical data and features an hourly procession of the Twelve Apostles (Wikipedia).
Visiting Information
- Visible: Always (mounted on Old Town Hall Tower)
- Tower Hours: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM (May–Sep), 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (Oct–Apr)
- Tickets: Required for tower access; 150 CZK for adults, with discounts for students/seniors. Under 6 free.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access and multilingual guides available.
- Getting There: Metro (Line A or B, Staroměstská station); Tram (17, 18, 22)
Tips:
- Arrive early for the hourly show
- Combine with visits to the Church of Our Lady before Týn and Charles Bridge
- Prague Tourism Info
Charles Bridge
History and Features
Constructed in 1357 under King Charles IV, Charles Bridge connects the Old Town and Lesser Town across the Vltava River. Lined with 30 Baroque statues, the bridge is both an architectural and cultural icon (Official Prague Tourism Website).
Visiting Information
- Access: Open 24/7, free to walk across
- Guided Tours: Available through local providers (Charles Bridge Guided Tours)
- Accessibility: Pedestrian-only; cobblestones may pose difficulty for wheelchairs/strollers
Tips:
- Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best views and fewer crowds
- Explore nearby sites such as Prague Castle and Lennon Wall
Summary of Key Points and Recommendations
Unicorn University exemplifies the evolution and modernization of higher education in the Czech Republic, standing out for its vocationally oriented programs, high graduate employability, and commitment to internationalization. Its innovative approach to online learning and research partnerships, such as with CERN, make it a hub for technology and business education. The campus in Vysočany offers state-of-the-art facilities in a vibrant Prague neighborhood, easily accessible for visitors. Whether you are interested in academic tours, attending public events, or exploring Prague’s cultural heritage, Unicorn University and its surroundings provide a comprehensive and enriching experience. Stay updated on hours, events, and visitor services through the university’s official channels (CzechUniversities.com; Unicorn Annual Report 2021; Edarabia).
References
- Wikipedia: Unicorn University
- Come to Study at Unicorn University – CzechUniversities.com
- Unicorn College Prague, Czech Republic – Edarabia
- Unicorn University to Become First Czech Online University – CzechUniversities.com
- What Kind of School is Unicorn University? – CzechUniversities.com
- Unicorn Annual Report 2021 – Unicorn a.s.
- Unicorn University Catalogue – CzechUniversities.com
- Study Abroad at Unicorn University – StandYou
- Prague Tourism
- Official Prague Tourism Website: Charles Bridge
- Charles Bridge Guided Tours
