Introduction. The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of Physical Education (PE) studies at the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport (FPE&S) of the University of Physical Education (UPE) in Warsaw. Material and methods. The study was carried out among the students and graduates of two unified education cycles by means of the documents analysis and the diagnostic poll method with the use of a posted questionnaire. The analysis encompassed the level of preparation for undertaking the studies, academic merits, sport achievements, other experience gained by the examined in the course of the studies and the "output effect" in the form of gained competences. Results. As a result of the study, it was established that the PE studies were undertaken mostly by physically well-prepared graduates of secondary schools whose level of theoretical knowledge was quite low. In the course of the studies, the examined scored average academic merits. The studies constituted for them an opportunity to gain new competences, mainly in the field of physical education. Sporadically, students' activities were directed at educational, organisational and social spheres. Conclusions. In the light of the obtained results, amendments in the national curriculum and changes in physical education teaching methodology seem crucial. Apart from gaining competences pertaining to a particular graduate's profile, development of creative skills, and shaping the proper attitude and behaviour seem vital.
