Cattolica University
Milan, Italy
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Milan, Italy
Founded
1921
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
30,000+
QS World Ranking
#409 (2026)
Discover Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Discover Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Founded in 1921 by Father Agostino Gemelli, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is the largest non-state university in Europe and one of the most comprehensive higher education institutions in Italy. With its main campus housed in a historic Cistercian monastery near the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio in the heart of Milan, the university blends centuries of architectural heritage with modern academic excellence.
The university is organized into 12 faculties across five campuses in Milan, Rome, Brescia, Piacenza, and Cremona, offering over 200 programs in Italian and more than 40 English-taught programs at all study levels. Cattolica welcomes students from over 126 different nationalities, creating a truly international academic community rooted in Italian tradition.
Cattolica is recognized for its strong interdisciplinary approach, combining traditional fields such as philosophy, psychology, and literature with programs in banking and finance, international business, medicine and surgery, and agricultural economics. The university maintains over 4,000 agreements with employers and is ranked first in Italy for employer-student connections.
Key Milestones
- 1921: University officially inaugurated by Father Agostino Gemelli with 68 students in two programs: philosophy and social sciences.
- 1924: Received recognition from the Italian state via Royal Decree, enabling the awarding of legally recognized degrees. Humanities and Law programs inaugurated.
- 1930: Main campus relocated to the ancient St. Ambrose Monastery, a Bramante-designed Renaissance cloister complex where it remains today.
- 2012: Major restructuring established the School of Political and Social Science in Milan and the School of Economics and Law in Piacenza-Cremona.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
Università Cattolica is organized into 12 faculties offering undergraduate, graduate, specializing master, and PhD programs. The university provides a strong interdisciplinary approach with programs ranging from humanities and social sciences to medicine, economics, and agricultural sciences, with over 40 programs taught entirely in English.
Faculty of Economics
One of the university's flagship faculties, offering programs in economics, management, banking, and finance. Located on the Milan campus with strong ties to Italy's financial sector and the nearby Borsa Italiana.
- Economics and Management (English-taught)
- Banking and Finance
- Business Analytics and Data Science
Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
One of the most selective medical schools in Italy, based at the Rome campus. Students complete clinical practice at the renowned Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic, a top-ranked teaching hospital.
- Medicine and Surgery (English-taught)
- Nursing Sciences
- Healthcare Management
Faculty of Political and Social Sciences
Offers programs in international relations, political science, sociology, and communication. Combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills for careers in diplomacy, public policy, and media.
- International Relations and Global Affairs
- Communication Management
- Political Science
Faculty of Arts and Philosophy
A cornerstone of the university since its founding, this faculty covers philosophy, literature, history, and the performing arts. It maintains a strong humanistic tradition with modern interdisciplinary approaches.
- Philosophy
- Modern Philology
- Cultural Heritage Studies
Faculty of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences
Based at the Piacenza-Cremona campus in Italy's Food Valley, this faculty benefits from strong links with agro-food companies and features on-campus laboratories and nearby farm fields for practical learning.
- Agricultural and Food Economics
- Food Processing: Innovation and Tradition
- Sustainable Agriculture
Faculty of Psychology
Established in 1999, this faculty offers comprehensive programs in clinical, developmental, and organizational psychology. It provides access to research labs and clinical training opportunities in Milan.
- Psychology
- Applied Clinical Psychology
- Organizational Psychology
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- EducationHigh school diploma after minimum 12 years of schooling
- English ProficiencyMinimum B2 level: TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS 6.0, or Cambridge B2 First
- Assessment TestFoundation Knowledge Assessment test (VPI) required for all first-year students
- ApplicationOnline application via the university portal with required documents
- Religious RequirementBaptismal certificate or short interview (theology courses required but flexible)
Graduate Admissions
- EducationBachelor's degree (Laurea Triennale or equivalent) from a recognized institution
- English ProficiencyMinimum B2 level or higher depending on the program
- TranscriptsOfficial academic transcripts from all previous higher education institutions
- Additional DocumentsCV, motivation letter, and reference letters (program-specific)
- Italian ProficiencyB2 Italian required only for Italian-taught programs
Admissions for Bachelor's and Master of Science degree programs typically open in November for the following academic year.
Early application rounds for English-taught programs. Applying early increases scholarship chances.
Main application deadline for most undergraduate and graduate programs for September intake.
Admissions for the Medicine and Surgery program in Rome open in October, with Bolzano campus admissions opening in January.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition fees at Cattolica are based on where the student's family income is produced, not on citizenship. The university offers a range of financial support options including the UCSC International Scholarship. Fees are published each spring for the next academic year and may increase slightly due to inflation.
| Fee Category | Italian/EU Residents | Non-EU International |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | EUR 3,800 - EUR 11,500 | EUR 8,800 |
| EU Flat Rate (income under EUR 150,000) | EUR 6,580 | N/A |
| Graduate Tuition (per year) | EUR 3,800 - EUR 11,500 | EUR 5,000 - EUR 18,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per year) | EUR 10,800 - EUR 15,600 | EUR 10,800 - EUR 15,600 |
| Total | EUR 14,600 - EUR 27,100 | EUR 19,600 - EUR 33,600 |
UCSC International Scholarship
An annual tuition fee reduction for international students that can lower tuition to approximately EUR 5,900 per year. Students can apply during the online application process and are notified with their admission offer.
- Reduced Fee: Approximately EUR 5,900 per year
- Eligibility: Non-EU international students applying to degree programs
- Renewal: Automatically renewed annually for up to 3 additional years
EDUCatt Financial Aid
EDUCatt is a non-profit foundation that promotes access to higher education at Cattolica. It supports the Diritto allo Studio Universitario (DSU), providing fee exemptions and financial support totaling approximately EUR 27.2 million annually.
- Type: Need-based grants and fee waivers
- Coverage: Tuition fee exemptions and living cost support
- Application: Apply through the EDUCatt portal during enrollment
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Cattolica's main Milan campus is set within a historic Cistercian monastery near the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, featuring Doric and Ionic cloisters originally redesigned by Renaissance architect Bramante. The campus provides a peaceful haven in the heart of Milan, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops, with hidden picturesque gardens and courtyards that create a unique study environment.
The iconic Renaissance cloisters form the architectural heart of the Milan campus, offering a serene study atmosphere within the historic monastery complex.
The prestigious underground library houses over 2 million volumes and provides modern study spaces for individual and collaborative work.
The grand lecture hall hosts major academic ceremonies, guest lectures, and cultural events throughout the academic year.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation
EDUCatt and MIL Service provide various housing solutions including residence halls and shared student apartments across Milan. The university offers 9 colleges and 17 housing types with approximately 1,500 rooms.
- On-campus residence halls with single rooms and private bathrooms
- Shared student apartments in safe residential neighborhoods
- Average accommodation costs: EUR 2,700 - EUR 3,900 per year
Student Services
Cattolica provides comprehensive support services including a health center offering medical, nursing, and psychological counseling, as well as specialist examinations. The campus also features study rooms, music rooms, a gym, and cafeteria with student discounts.
- Health center with general and specialist medical care
- GetFIT gym partnership with sauna, pool, and squash courts
- Campus cafeteria with discounted meal plans for students
Student Life at Cattolica
Student Life at Cattolica
Life at Cattolica extends well beyond the classroom. With over 126 nationalities represented on campus, students enjoy a vibrant international community enriched by cultural events, social activities, and student organizations. The Buddy Program pairs international students with experienced Cattolica students, helping newcomers settle into campus life and explore Milan.
Milan: Italy's Dynamic Capital of Business and Culture
Milan: Italy's Dynamic Capital of Business and Culture
Life in Milan
Milan is the economic, commercial, and industrial capital of Italy, and a gateway to international markets. Consistently ranked as the top student city in Italy by the QS Best Student Cities Ranking, Milan offers a mix of modern efficiency and Northern Italian tradition as the epicenter of fashion, design, and business. The city is well connected by metro, trams, buses, and suburban rail, with affordable student transport cards available from ATM.
Fashion and Design Capital
Home to many of the world's most famous luxury brands and design houses, Milan hosts Fashion Week and the Salone del Mobile, offering unparalleled exposure to creative industries.
Cultural Heritage
From the iconic Duomo and La Scala opera house to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, Milan offers over 2,000 years of art and history.
Financial Hub
The Italian stock exchange, Borsa Italiana, is just 10 minutes from campus. Over 8,600 national and international financial and insurance companies operate in the city.
Gateway to Europe
With excellent train and air connections, Milan is an ideal base for exploring Italy and Europe. Lake Como, the Alps, and cities like Venice and Florence are easily accessible for weekend trips.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Recruiters and Employers
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
A dedicated team of support staff, advisors, and mentors with first-hand experience of studying abroad. ISS assists with academic matters, accommodation, study visas, and administrative paperwork.
Non-EU students receive guidance on obtaining student visas, residence permits, and required documentation. The university provides support throughout the enrollment and arrival process.
Pre-semester Italian language classes are available to help international students settle into daily life in Italy. These complement the English-taught academic programs offered at the university.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is consistently recognized in major global university rankings, reflecting its strong academic reputation, research output, and international impact. The university has 20 academic disciplines ranked in the top 450 worldwide according to QS Rankings by Subject.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Theology and Religious Studies | QS by Subject | #51-100 |
| Medicine | QS by Subject | #101-150 |
| Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging | US News by Subject | #54 |
| Gastroenterology and Hepatology | US News by Subject | #67 |
Features
The 2023-2025 Strategic Plan stems from the Università Cattolica’s desire to strengthen its original, cultural and ideal mandate, rediscovered and relaunched during the Centenary celebrations, in order to respond to the demands of civil society and the Church: a rooting in the centrality of the person, understood as social subjectivity and the driving force behind every possible transformation and design of the future, in the sign of a profound unity of culture.\n\n
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
December - January
Location
Largo Fra Agostino Gemelli, 1, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
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