Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria, Italy
Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria, Italy
Founded
1968
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~6,000
Departments
6
Discover Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria (UNIRC)
Discover Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria (UNIRC)
Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria (Università degli Studi Mediterranea di Reggio Calabria), commonly known as UNIRC, is an Italian public research university located in the coastal city of Reggio Calabria at the southern tip of the Italian peninsula. Founded in 1968, it is one of the youngest universities in Italy and has grown into an important academic center in Southern Italy, particularly recognized for its focus on architecture, engineering, and agricultural sciences.
The university operates as an Environmental Polytechnic with a strong emphasis on themes of architecture, landscape, urbanism, and infrastructure connected to the green economy. Its six departments cover areas including Architecture, Heritage and Urbanism, Agriculture, Law and Economics, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Information Engineering. UNIRC offers undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate education, including a range of double degree programs and over 200 Erasmus mobility scholarships.
Strategically positioned at the center of the Mediterranean, UNIRC serves as a cultural and scientific bridge between Europe and the broader Mediterranean basin. The university has established partnerships with institutions worldwide, including Chongqing University in China and several American universities, and participates in the Marco Polo program for Chinese students. Its commitment to research is evidenced by over 10,700 scientific publications and more than 245,000 citations.
Key Milestones
- 1968: Officially established as the Free University Institute of Architecture through Presidential Decree No. 1543 of June 17, 1968.
- 1990s: Construction of the modern Feo di Vito campus began, transforming UNIRC into a contemporary university with state-of-the-art facilities.
- 2001: Renamed to Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria under Rector Alessandro Bianchi, reflecting its ambition as a Mediterranean cultural hub. Faculty of Law established.
- 2012: Ranked first among universities in Southern and Insular Italy by Il Sole 24 Ore, and 31st nationally based on quality indicators.
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
Mediterranea University is organized into six departments that span architecture, engineering, agriculture, law, economics, and human sciences. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the educational offer covers 10 disciplinary macro-areas with 28 active study courses: 14 three-year bachelor's degrees, 11 two-year master's degrees, and 3 five-year single-cycle master's degrees, plus postgraduate and PhD programs.
Department of Architecture and Territory (dArTe)
One of the most recognized architecture departments in Southern Italy, dArTe focuses on architectural design, urban planning, and landscape studies with a strong Mediterranean identity.
- Architecture (Five-Year Single Cycle)
- Design
- Urban Planning and Landscape Studies
Department of Heritage, Architecture, Urbanism (PAU)
PAU integrates heritage conservation, architectural urbanism, and cultural landscape management, emphasizing the preservation of historical and cultural assets in the Mediterranean region.
- Architecture and Heritage Conservation
- Urban Regeneration
- Cultural Heritage Management
Department of Agriculture
Offering programs closely tied to the territory's agricultural traditions, this department covers environmental science, food technology, and sustainable agricultural practices in the Mediterranean climate.
- Environmental Science and Forestry
- Agricultural Science and Technology
- Food Science and Technology
Department of Law, Economics and Human Sciences (DiGiES)
DiGiES encompasses five degree courses spanning law, economics, education, and primary education sciences, addressing economic issues related to archaeology, cultural heritage, and social sciences.
- Law (Five-Year Single Cycle)
- Economic Sciences
- Primary Education Sciences (Five-Year Single Cycle)
Department of Civil, Energy, Environmental and Material Engineering (DICEAM)
DICEAM focuses on civil infrastructure, sustainable energy, environmental protection, and material science, training engineers for the challenges of modern Mediterranean construction and sustainability.
- Civil Engineering
- Environmental and Energy Engineering
- Materials Engineering
Department of Information Engineering, Infrastructures and Sustainable Energy (DIIES)
DIIES covers information technology, telecommunications, infrastructure planning, and sustainable energy systems, preparing students for careers in digital innovation and green technology.
- Information Engineering
- Electronic and Telecommunications Engineering
- Sustainable Energy Systems
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational QualificationHigh school diploma or equivalent obtained after at least 12 years of schooling
- Language ProficiencyB2 level certification in the language(s) of instruction (Italian and/or English as applicable)
- Pre-enrollmentInternational students must pre-enroll through the Universitaly portal and obtain a study visa
- Entry AssessmentSome open-access programs require an entry-level knowledge assessment test (CISIA test)
- Limited Access ProgramsArchitecture and Primary Education Sciences require a national admission test with limited places
Graduate Admission
- Educational QualificationBachelor's degree (Laurea Triennale) or equivalent recognized foreign qualification
- Language ProficiencyB2 level certification in the language(s) of instruction for the chosen program
- Curriculum RequirementsSpecific academic prerequisites vary by program; check individual course requirements
- Application ProcessApply through the university's Esse3 online platform with required documentation
- International DocumentsDeclaration of Value, translated transcripts, and passport required for non-EU applicants
Online enrollment begins on the Esse3 platform for open-access undergraduate and single-cycle master's degree programs for the upcoming academic year.
International students must complete pre-enrollment through Universitaly and their local Italian Embassy or Consulate during this period.
National admission tests for limited-access programs such as Architecture and Primary Education Sciences are typically held in September.
Extended enrollment period for open-access programs. Students should check specific deadlines as they may vary by program each academic year.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
As a public Italian university, Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria offers highly affordable tuition fees compared to many other European and international institutions. Fees are calculated based on family income (ISEE indicator) and may vary by program. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedule applicable to your situation.
| Fee Component | EU Students (per year) | Non-EU Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (estimated range) | EUR 200 - EUR 2,500 | EUR 500 - EUR 3,000 |
| Regional Tax | EUR 140 | EUR 140 |
| Revenue Stamp | EUR 16 | EUR 16 |
| Student Services Fee | Included in tuition | Included in tuition |
| Total | Contact university for exact total based on ISEE | Contact university for exact total based on income |
Regional Right to Study Scholarships (Borse di Studio)
Merit- and income-based scholarships administered by the regional agency for the right to higher education, covering tuition waivers, accommodation, and meal subsidies for eligible students.
- Eligibility: Based on ISEE income indicator and academic merit
- Benefits: Tuition exemption, housing support, and meal plan access
- Application: Apply through the regional student services agency annually
Erasmus+ Mobility Grants
UNIRC offers over 200 Erasmus+ scholarships annually for students to study or complete internships at partner institutions across Europe and beyond.
- Coverage: Monthly mobility grant for study or traineeship abroad
- Duration: 3 to 12 months depending on program
- Partner Countries: EU member states plus associated and partner countries worldwide
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The main campus of Mediterranea University is located at Feo di Vito, a modern university citadel built during the 1990s on the hills above Reggio Calabria. The campus features contemporary academic buildings, over 60 specialized laboratories, libraries, student residences, and recreational facilities, all set within a Mediterranean landscape with views toward the Strait of Messina.
The modern university campus features contemporary architecture and over 60 research laboratories spread across multiple departments.
The main auditorium hosts academic events, conferences, and the university's annual Christmas concert at Teatro Comunale Francesco Cilea.
Four faculty libraries house approximately 60,000 monographs, 500 periodicals, and access to some 5,000 electronic journals and databases.
Housing and Campus Life
Student Housing
The University College is located near the campus, not far from the historic city center, providing accommodation and organizing events to promote social and cultural integration of students.
- On-campus University College residence
- Support for off-site and international students
- Cultural and social integration programs
Sports and Recreation
The Centro Fitness di Ateneo gym is located on campus below the Aula Magna, featuring a training area of over 350 square meters with extensive equipment, locker rooms, and dual access from campus and city.
- Campus fitness center (350+ sqm)
- Free Wi-Fi across campus
- Theater and workshop spaces
Student Life at UNIRC
Student Life at UNIRC
Student life at Mediterranea University blends academic rigor with a vibrant cultural scene rooted in Southern Italian traditions. The university organizes a full calendar of cultural events throughout the year, from concerts and workshops to collaborative activities with student associations, creating a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
Reggio Calabria: A Mediterranean Gem
Reggio Calabria: A Mediterranean Gem
Life in Reggio Calabria
Reggio Calabria sits at the very tip of Italy's boot, overlooking the Strait of Messina with Sicily just across the water. This sun-drenched coastal city of approximately 170,000 residents blends over 2,700 years of history with a vibrant cultural scene, affordable living, and an authentic Southern Italian lifestyle that makes it an exceptional place to study abroad.
Lungomare Falcomatà
The iconic seaside promenade, called the most beautiful kilometer in Italy by writer Gabriele D'Annunzio, offers stunning views of the Strait of Messina, Sicily, and Mount Etna on clear days.
National Museum of Magna Graecia
Home to the world-famous Riace Bronzes, two extraordinary 5th-century BC Greek warrior statues, along with an extensive collection of archaeological finds from ancient Greek settlements.
Aspromonte National Park
Just outside the city, this national park offers mountain peaks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, providing a stunning natural escape for outdoor enthusiasts.
Gateway to Sicily
A short 30-minute ferry ride connects Reggio Calabria to Messina, Sicily, making it easy to explore two regions. The city also has its own airport and train connections to major Italian cities.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Development and Partnerships
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Non-EU students must pre-enroll through Universitaly, obtain a study visa from the Italian Embassy, and apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 working days of arriving in Italy.
UNIRC provides the TEST ITA L2 language assessment through CISIA for international students. Language exchange opportunities and formal Italian courses are available to help non-native speakers.
The university offers career counseling, internship placement programs with local, national, and international companies, and regular job fairs and networking events for students.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
Mediterranea University of Reggio Calabria has been recognized in several national and international ranking systems. In 2012, it was ranked first among universities in Southern and Insular Italy by Il Sole 24 Ore. The university continues to build its international research profile with over 10,700 scientific publications.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Sciences | GRAS ShanghaiRanking | #301 |
| Architecture | Il Sole 24 Ore (Italy) | Top in Southern Italy |
| Business Administration | GRAS ShanghaiRanking | #301 |
| Engineering | EduRank Research Profile | Notable research output |
Features
The Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as Engineering, Architecture, Economics, Law, and Agricultural Sciences. It is known for its strong research output, modern facilities, international collaborations, and supportive learning environment. The campus is located in scenic southern Italy, providing students with both academic excellence and cultural experiences.
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
October - July
Location
Via dell'Università, 25, 89124 Reggio Calabria RC, Italy
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