The paper presents the dynamic development of nanotechnologies in the world and--on this basis--the educational demand for scientists, engineers and didactic staff. Proposed and created forms of education and development related to nanotechnology in theoretical and practical aspect are shown as well. The potential and educational possibilities within nanotechnology are presented with regard to the university studies, postgraduate studies, doctoral studies and training courses in the selected countries. Special attention is paid to characteristic educational systems, both with regard to the organizational and methodological aspects related to nanotechnology in the United States, Japan and EU countries. Compared to these countries, the situation in Poland within education and training in the field of nanotechnology is characterised. (Contains 9 figures and 1 footnote.)