University of Messina
Messina, Italy
University of Messina
Messina, Italy
Founded
1548
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
23,000+
Departments
12
Discover the University of Messina: One of Italy's Oldest Universities
Discover the University of Messina: One of Italy's Oldest Universities
The University of Messina (Universita degli Studi di Messina), known as UniME, is a prestigious public university located in Messina, Sicily, Italy. Formally established by Pope Paul III in November 1548, it was the world's first Jesuit college and is counted among the oldest universities in Italy, with over 475 years of academic tradition.
Today, UniME is organized into 12 departments offering more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degrees, over 20 master's degrees, and 15 PhD programmes, including several taught entirely in English. The university has a student population of more than 23,000 distributed across four campus facilities spread throughout the city, with students from over 70 different countries.
Over the centuries, the University of Messina has been a centre of attraction for esteemed scholars and historical figures, including Giovanni Pascoli, Marcello Malpighi, Gaetano Salvemini, and Vittorio Emanuele Orlando. UniME enjoys a long tradition as a driving force in the Mediterranean area and is strongly committed to internationalization, research excellence, and sustainable development.
Key Milestones
- 1548: Formally established by Pope Paul III as the world's first Jesuit college, laying the foundation for centuries of academic excellence.
- 1838: Refounded by King Ferdinando II after periods of closure, marking the beginning of the modern university era.
- 1909: Reopened after the devastating 1908 Messina earthquake, starting with the Faculty of Law and gradually restoring all faculties.
- 2012: Restructured into the current 12-department system following the Italian University System reform (Law 240/2010).
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
The University of Messina is organized into 12 departments covering a comprehensive range of disciplines from humanities and social sciences to medicine, engineering, and veterinary sciences. With 94 degree programmes including several taught in English, UniME provides diverse academic pathways for both domestic and international students.
Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine
A multidisciplinary department distinguished by the variety of its training offerings and research fields, providing medical education at the Policlinico G. Martino university hospital.
- Medicine and Surgery (English-taught, 6-year cycle)
- Nursing Sciences
- Biotechnology
Department of Engineering
Created in 2015 through the merger of two engineering departments, it covers civil, computer, electronic, chemical, and industrial engineering disciplines at the Polo Papardo campus overlooking the Strait of Messina.
- Civil Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Computer Engineering
Department of Economics
Established in 2012, this department encompasses the university's teaching staff in economics and statistics, offering programmes focused on business, finance, and quantitative methods.
- Economics and Business
- Finance and Statistics
- Business Administration
Department of Law
Continuing the university's oldest academic tradition dating back to the 13th century, this department offers comprehensive legal education and research programmes.
- Law (Single-Cycle Master's Degree)
- Legal Services
- International and European Law
Department of Ancient and Modern Civilisations (DICAM)
Continuing the rich tradition of the Faculty of Humanities, DICAM is located at the Annunziata Campus and offers programmes in literature, philosophy, history, and cultural heritage.
- Modern Languages and Literature
- Philosophy and History
- Cultural Heritage Studies
Department of Veterinary Sciences
Established in 2012 as a continuation of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine founded by Royal Decree in 1926, this department is based at the Polo Annunziata campus.
- Veterinary Medicine (Single-Cycle Degree)
- Animal Science
- Food Safety and Quality
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school certificate (equivalent to Italian maturita) with at least 12 years of schooling
- Language ProficiencyItalian B2 level (CEFR) for Italian-taught programmes; English B2 level for English-taught programmes
- Application PortalNon-EU students must apply through the Universitaly portal and obtain a student visa
- Medical ProgrammesIMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) required for Medicine and Surgery in English
- Document ValidationAcademic credentials must be validated through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRecognized bachelor's degree (Laurea) or equivalent in a relevant field of study
- Language ProficiencyItalian B2 level for Italian-taught programmes; English B2 level (CEFR) for English-taught programmes
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts, diploma supplement, and curriculum vitae required
- PhD ProgrammesMaster's degree required; selection based on qualifications and competitive examination
- Application PortalApply through the UniME ESSE3 online system or Universitaly for non-EU applicants
Primary application period begins for both undergraduate and graduate programmes for the Fall intake.
Closing date for the first round of applications. Additional calls may follow depending on available places.
Main academic year intake. Students must complete enrollment and registration before classes begin.
Some postgraduate programmes offer a secondary spring intake, particularly for courses with a large number of international students.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Messina is committed to making education accessible and affordable. Tuition fees for Italian and EU students are calculated based on the ISEE University value (household income indicator), while international non-EU students pay fees based on their country group. A fixed enrollment fee of EUR 156 applies to all students.
| Fee Category | EU / Italian Students | Non-EU International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | EUR 500 - EUR 3,000 | EUR 500 - EUR 3,000 |
| Master's Tuition (per year) | EUR 750 (approx.) | EUR 750 - EUR 3,000 |
| Medicine & Surgery (per year) | EUR 1,500 - EUR 3,000 | EUR 1,500 - EUR 3,000 |
| Fixed Enrollment Fee | EUR 156 | EUR 156 |
| Total | EUR 656 - EUR 3,156 | EUR 656 - EUR 3,156 |
ERSU Regional Scholarship
Offered in partnership with the Regional Agency for the Right to Study (ERSU), this scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to eligible international students based on economic need and academic merit.
- Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, financial award disbursed in two installments (December and June)
- Meal Plan: One or two free meals daily at university canteens included
- Eligibility: Based on economic condition and academic performance; open to all enrolled students
Italian Government Scholarships
The Italian government offers annual scholarships to international students studying at Italian universities, which can cover tuition fees and include a monthly living allowance of approximately EUR 6,000 per year.
- Award Amount: Approximately EUR 6,000 per year (varies annually)
- Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly allowance, and sometimes accommodation support
- Application: Apply through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your home country
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Messina is spread across four distinct campuses throughout the city, blending historic architecture with modern infrastructure. Each campus is well-connected by public transportation, and the coastal setting offers students stunning views of the Strait of Messina and the Calabrian mountains.
Home to the Central Administration, plus the Faculties of Economics, Political Science, Law, and Education, located in the historic city center.
Houses the Faculties of Sciences and Engineering with modern laboratories, overlooking the famous Strait of Messina.
The main university hospital where the Faculty of Medicine operates, providing clinical training and advanced medical research facilities.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
The university offers dormitory facilities and guidance on finding private accommodation, including shared apartments and studios at affordable rates in the city.
- University dormitories available for eligible students
- Private room rentals from approximately EUR 150-300 per month
- ERSU accommodation support for scholarship recipients
Dining and Services
UniME provides university canteens across its campuses, a well-stocked central library, departmental libraries, and a sports centre at the Annunziata campus.
- University canteens with affordable meal plans
- Central library and departmental libraries with online database access
- Sports centre with indoor and outdoor facilities at Polo Annunziata
Student Life at the University of Messina
Student Life at the University of Messina
Student life at UniME is enriched by the vibrant Sicilian culture, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a close-knit university community. Students make up more than 10% of Messina's population, creating a lively and youthful atmosphere throughout the city, especially around the Duomo gathering area on weekends.
Messina: The Gateway to Sicily
Messina: The Gateway to Sicily
Living in Messina
Messina is a historic port city on the northeastern tip of Sicily, known for its rich cultural heritage, Mediterranean climate, and affordable cost of living. As one of Italy's busiest passenger ports, it connects Sicily to mainland Italy and serves as a gateway to iconic Sicilian destinations like Taormina and Mount Etna.
Mediterranean Climate
Enjoy mild winters and warm summers with year-round sunshine, making Messina ideal for outdoor activities and coastal living.
Affordable Living
With estimated monthly living costs of EUR 550-650, Messina is significantly more affordable than larger Italian cities like Rome or Milan.
Cultural Heritage
Explore the Norman Cathedral with the world's largest astronomical clock, the Regional Museum housing Caravaggio masterpieces, and the 12th-century Chiesa dei Catalani.
Strategic Location
Just 3 km from mainland Italy, with easy ferry access to Calabria and excellent connections to Taormina, Mount Etna, and the Aeolian Islands.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Notable Alumni and Career Connections
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The Welcome Office provides dedicated assistance to international students with enrollment, visa and residence permit issues, and integration into university life and the local community.
UniME offers Italian language courses for international students to help with daily life, academic integration, and cultural immersion in Sicily.
Non-EU students apply through the Universitaly portal. After receiving an admission letter, the university guides students through the visa application and residence permit process.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Messina World Rankings
University of Messina World Rankings
The University of Messina has steadily improved its position in major international rankings, reflecting its growing research output and commitment to academic excellence. UniME is recognized as the leading university in Sicily and ranks among the top Italian universities for research citation impact.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy and Pharmacology | QS by Subject | #251-300 |
| Life Science and Medicine | QS by Subject | #451-500 |
| Food Science and Technology | ARWU by Subject | #101-150 |
| Veterinary Sciences | ARWU by Subject | #101-150 |
Features
The University of Messina combines centuries-old academic tradition with modern research and innovation. Located on the Strait of Messina, it offers a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art laboratories, international collaborations, and strong student support services. UniMe is known for excellence in Medicine, Engineering, Economics, Law, and Humanities, and it actively promotes international mobility and English-taught programs.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
July - December
Location
Piazza Pugliatti, 1, 98122 Messina ME, Italy
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