List of the Best Universities in Italy and Their Favorite Majors
Italy. The name immediately conjures images of timeless art, magnificent architecture, and design excellence. However, more than just a tourist destination, Italy has long been a beacon of global higher education. This country is home to the world’s oldest university and a modern innovation hub for design and engineering.
For international students, finding the best universities in Italy is key to an unparalleled academic experience. The right choice must consider historical heritage, industry connections, and, of course, the fit with your dream major.
This article serves as a comprehensive guide, not just listing the top institutions in Italy, but also fully examining why they excel in specific disciplines. We will break down where you should study design in Italy, where law and history are most deeply rooted, and what the practical requirements are for realizing your studies in Bel Paese.
The Allure of Italian Higher Education: History and Quality
The appeal of higher education in Italy is rooted in its long history and its educational philosophy that prioritizes the depth of knowledge. Italy is the birthplace of the modern university tradition. Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna is the oldest continually operating university in the world, founded in 1088.
This medieval heritage creates an environment where research is not only valued but revered. Since then, education in Italy has continued to evolve, combining classical tradition with technological innovation.
The education system is divided into several types: Public Universities (state-funded and offering affordable fees), private universities, and polytechnics (Institutes of Technology focusing on engineering and architecture).
The quality of Italian universities is often reflected in global rankings, particularly in specific disciplines such as Design, Architecture, and Archaeology, where the country’s history provides an unrivaled comparative advantage.
In addition to quality, the financial appeal is also significant. Although tuition fees in Italy for non-EU students have been adjusted, the figures are still relatively affordable compared to popular countries like the US, UK, or Canada. This reasonable cost, coupled with the opportunity to get scholarships, makes Italy a realistic destination for many students worldwide.
Best Universities in Italy Based on Reputation and Achievement with Favorite Majors
Italy’s academic excellence is spread across various cities, from the industrialized North to the historically rich capital. Here is the complete list.
1. University of Bologna
The University of Bologna ranks first in Italy and 146th globally according to Times Higher Education 2025. This highest educational institution is the oldest in the world, founded in 1088. Its Law major in Bologna is an excellent program that is highly respected worldwide, as the university is the birthplace of the European civil law tradition. In addition, programs in Humanities, Medicine, and Social Sciences are also favorites for international students.
2. Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
Ranking 154th globally, Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa is an elite educational institution that is very selective in its student admissions. Its unique educational system with mandatory dormitories creates a close-knit and collaborative academic community. The Mathematics and Physics programs at this institution are known to have a very strong tradition. A notable feature of Scuola Normale is that all accepted students receive a full scholarship, including accommodation and meals.
3. Sapienza University of Rome
Sapienza University of Rome ranks 185th globally. This campus is one of the largest universities in Europe with 11 faculties and 63 departments. Founded in 1303, this university offers more than 280 degree programs and 200 master’s programs in various fields.
Science and Technology majors, including Physics, Chemistry, and Computer Science, are excellent programs with advanced research facilities. The Archaeology and Art History faculties leverage the strategic location in Rome to provide a hands-on learning experience at historical sites.
4. Politecnico di Milano
Ranking 201-250 globally and 98th according to QS Rankings 2026, Politecnico di Milano is the leading technical university in Italy. The Architecture and Design major is a primadona with very innovative programs in product design, interior design, and communication design. The Engineering programs, covering civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, are internationally recognized.
5. University of Padua
The University of Padua, ranking 201-250 globally, is the second oldest university in Italy, founded in 1222. Its Life Sciences and Medical majors, including Biology, Medicine, and Biotechnology, are excellent programs with an international reputation. The Physics and Astronomy programs are also very famous for their cutting-edge astrophysics and physical science research.
6. Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies Pisa
Ranking 201-250 globally, Sant’Anna School is a specialized higher education institution that focuses on research and innovation. Excellent programs include Robotics, Biotechnology, and Political Science with a multidisciplinary approach. This school is also famous for its Economics and Management programs that integrate technology and social innovation.
7. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
Ranking 201-250 globally, this private university focuses specifically on health sciences and biomedicine. Located in Milan with the famous San Raffaele hospital, you will get a hands-on experience at one of the best healthcare facilities in Europe. The Medicine and Surgery majors are flagship programs with an innovative curriculum that integrates research from the first year.
8. Humanitas University
Ranking 251-300 globally, Humanitas University is a relatively new but fast-growing private medical university. Located in Milan with the modern Humanitas hospital, this university offers a six-year medical program in English. The Medicine and Surgery program uses an international curriculum.
9. Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Ranking 301-350 globally, this largest Catholic university in Europe has campuses in Milan, Rome, Brescia, and Piacenza. The Economics and Business program at the Milan campus is very famous for its strong connection to the Italian corporate world. The Medicine major at the Rome campus offers comprehensive medical education with the prestigious Gemelli hospital.
10. University of Trento
The University of Trento ranks 301-350 globally and offers various excellent master’s programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Although relatively young, this university has built a strong reputation in research and innovation.
The Psychology and Cognitive Science majors are excellent programs with cutting-edge research in neuroscience. The Computer Science and Information Engineering programs are highly sought after with a focus on Artificial Intelligence Systems and Data Science.
Read Also: 7 Highest Paying Jobs in Italy and Career Opportunities
Practical Guide for International Students
Understanding the Italian administrative system is crucial for a smooth study experience.
A. Language Requirement
The main question for foreign students is: can I study in Italy in English? The answer is Yes, especially for higher levels. Master’s and PhD programs in Business, Engineering, and Science are often fully offered in English. However, for undergraduate programs at public universities and in the Humanities, Italian is still dominant.
B. Application and Visa Process
The application process in Italy requires an additional step known as pre-enrollment. Before applying to the university, you must submit an application to the Italian Embassy in your home country for authorization. This process often coincides with the student visa application (Visa D) and takes a considerable amount of time. Therefore, preparation must begin at least a year in advance.
C. Costs and Living
Although tuition fees are relatively low, you must be realistic about the cost of living. It is important to note that the cost of living in Milan is very high, almost on par with other major European cities. Meanwhile, cities in Southern Italy or Bologna and Padua in the north, offer a much more affordable cost of living.
Financial Aid: Foreign students are strongly advised to inquire about the regional financial aid (DSU). This aid, based on family income, can cover significant tuition fee reductions, accommodation assistance, and even a monthly allowance. The DSU benefit is one of the main reasons why student living costs in Italy can be managed well.
The key to success is aligning your university choice with your specific major: choose a Polytechnic for Engineering or Design, and a historical university for Humanities or Law. By understanding the language requirements, starting the pre-enrollment process early, and utilizing DSU financial aid opportunities, your dream of studying in Italy can come true.
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