University of Basilicata
Potenza, Italy
University of Basilicata (Università degli Studi della Basilicata)
Potenza, Italy
Founded
1982
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~6,500
Campuses
2 (Potenza & Matera)
Discover the University of Basilicata
Discover the University of Basilicata
The University of Basilicata, colloquially known as Unibas, is an Italian public research university located in Potenza with a satellite campus in Matera. Founded in 1982 in the aftermath of the devastating Irpinia earthquake that struck the Basilicata and Campania regions in 1980, the university was established as part of the regional recovery and development effort.
Unibas offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs across fields including engineering, science, agriculture, economics, humanities, and cultural heritage. The university has established research centers and institutes focusing on environmental studies, bioengineering, cultural heritage, and social sciences, and maintains numerous international partnerships worldwide.
Recognized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), the University of Basilicata is the leading higher education institution in the Basilicata region. Its facilities span three campus sites covering approximately 96,000 square meters across Potenza and Matera, providing students with modern learning and research environments.
Key Milestones
- 1982: University of Basilicata officially founded following the 1980 Irpinia earthquake, as part of the regional reconstruction effort.
- 1992: New campus officially opened in Matera, hosting the Postgraduate School of Archaeology and expanding the university's reach.
- 2000: Inauguration of the Macchia Romana Campus in Potenza, the university's main modern campus complex.
- 2024: Major reorganization established six new departments, including the DIUSS Department for Humanistic, Scientific and Social Innovation.
Academic Structure and Programs
Academic Structure and Programs
The University of Basilicata is organized into six primary academic structures, including schools and departments, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Following a 2024 reorganization, the university restructured its teaching and research units to foster greater interdisciplinary collaboration.
School of Engineering (SI-UniBas)
Offers programs in civil, environmental, computer, and industrial engineering with a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application in modern technology.
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Computer and Telecommunications Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
School of Agricultural, Forest, Food and Environmental Sciences (SAFE)
Focuses on agriculture, forestry, food science, and environmental management, reflecting the region's strong agricultural tradition and natural heritage.
- Agricultural Sciences and Technologies
- Forestry and Environmental Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
Department of Science (DiS)
Covers the natural sciences including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and biotechnology, with strong research output in environmental science and materials science.
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies
- Geology and Earth Sciences
Department for Humanistic, Scientific and Social Innovation (DIUSS)
Established in 2024, DIUSS brings together humanities, socio-economics, and cultural heritage studies, merging former departments DICEM, DISU, and DIMIE into one interdisciplinary unit.
- Humanities and Classical Philology
- Economics and Business Administration
- Education and Training Sciences
Architecture Program (Matera Campus)
Located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Matera, this program combines architecture with cultural heritage, environment, and Mediterranean studies in a unique historical setting.
- Architecture (5-year Single-Cycle Master's)
- Archaeology and Art History
- Cultural Heritage Operator
Pharmacy Program
Offers a five-year integrated master's degree in Pharmacy, preparing graduates for careers in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare, and biomedical research.
- Pharmacy (5-year Single-Cycle Master's)
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Clinical and Community Pharmacy
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationValid high school diploma recognized by the Italian Ministry of Education (12 years of schooling minimum)
- Language ProficiencyItalian language proficiency required for most programs; some programs accept English (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Entrance ExamCISIA TOLC admission test required for restricted-access programs (e.g., Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Architecture)
- Pre-enrollmentNon-EU students must pre-enroll through the Universitaly portal and obtain a student visa
- Document ValidationAcademic credentials must be officially translated, legalized, and accompanied by a Declaration of Value
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeA relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification recognized in Italy
- Academic TranscriptsDetailed records of previous university-level studies with certified translations
- Language RequirementsItalian and/or English proficiency depending on the program (IELTS, TOEFL, CILS, or CELI)
- Motivation LetterA statement of purpose outlining academic interests and career goals
- Additional RequirementsSome programs require interviews, portfolio submissions, or specific prerequisite coursework
The main intake for most bachelor's and master's programs. Pre-enrollment for non-EU students typically opens several months earlier.
Some programs offer a spring intake, though it is less common and depends on the specific course or faculty.
Non-EU international students must complete pre-enrollment through the Universitaly portal and apply for a student visa at the Italian consulate.
PhD application deadlines vary by department and research area. Check the university website for annual calls for applications.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
As a public university in Italy, the University of Basilicata offers relatively affordable tuition fees compared to many European 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.
| Fee Component | EU Students (Annual) | Non-EU Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (Undergraduate) | EUR 200 - EUR 2,500 (income-based) | EUR 500 - EUR 2,500 |
| Tuition Fee (Master's) | EUR 200 - EUR 2,500 (income-based) | EUR 500 - EUR 2,500 |
| Regional Tax & Fees | EUR 140 - EUR 200 | EUR 140 - EUR 200 |
| Student Services Fee | EUR 50 - EUR 100 | EUR 50 - EUR 100 |
| Total | EUR 590 - EUR 2,800 (approx.) | EUR 690 - EUR 2,800 (approx.) |
ARDSU Basilicata Regional Scholarships
The Regional Agency for the Right to University Study (ARDSU) provides need-based scholarships covering tuition waivers, accommodation support, and meal subsidies for eligible students.
- Coverage: Tuition waiver, housing, and meal allowance
- Eligibility: Based on ISEE income indicator and academic merit
- Application: Apply through ARDSU Basilicata website annually
University of Basilicata Merit & International Scholarships
The university offers fully funded scholarships for international students covering tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation assistance, and health insurance for bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, and accommodation support
- Eligibility: Open to Italian and international students based on academic excellence
- Application: Check the official university website for annual calls and deadlines
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Basilicata's facilities are spread across three campus sites in Potenza and Matera, covering an overall area of approximately 96,000 square meters. The campuses feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, extensive libraries, and research centers.
The main campus complex inaugurated in 2000, housing the Schools of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences along with science departments and central administration.
Located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Matera, this campus hosts architecture, archaeology, cultural heritage programs, and the School of Specialization in Archaeology.
The university library provides extensive academic collections, digital resources, and quiet study spaces across both the Potenza and Matera campuses.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
The university assists students in finding accommodation through the Regional Education Agency (ARDSU) halls of residence and private housing options in Potenza and Matera.
- ARDSU halls of residence (subject to availability)
- Private rented rooms and apartments in Potenza
- ESN Basilicata support for international students
Dining and Services
Students can access subsidized university canteen services managed by ARDSU, offering affordable meals on campus throughout the academic year.
- Subsidized university canteen with meal plans
- Cafeterias and food options near both campuses
- Affordable local restaurants and markets in Potenza
Student Life at Unibas
Student Life at Unibas
Student life at the University of Basilicata combines academic rigor with a vibrant community atmosphere. The university organizes workshops, cultural events, sports activities, and social gatherings that help students integrate and enjoy a rich campus experience in the heart of southern Italy.
Location: Potenza, Italy
Location: Potenza, Italy
Life in Potenza
Potenza is the capital of the Basilicata region in southern Italy, situated over 800 meters above sea level in the Apennine Mountains between Naples and Bari. Known as a vertical city of ascents and descents, it offers an affordable cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain scenery, making it an attractive destination for students seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Historic Center and Via Pretoria
The city's oldest street runs through the elevated historic center, lined with ancient buildings, shops, churches, and the iconic Torre Guevara, a medieval tower now used as an art gallery.
Cathedral of San Gerardo
Located at the highest panoramic point of the city, this medieval cathedral features a neoclassical facade and rich interior decorations, dedicated to Potenza's patron saint.
National Archaeological Museum
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale Dinu Adamesteanu houses an exceptional collection of artifacts from across Basilicata, spanning from prehistory to the medieval period.
Proximity to Matera
The university's second campus is in nearby Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient Sassi cave dwellings and designated European Capital of Culture 2019.
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Industries and Sectors Employing Graduates
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The International Mobility Office assists incoming students with enrollment, visa documentation, and academic orientation. Contact them at incoming@unibas.it for guidance on all aspects of studying at Unibas.
Students can seek accommodation through ARDSU Basilicata halls of residence or private housing. The local ESN chapter (suigeneris_basilicata@esn.it) also provides housing guidance for international students.
Non-EU students must apply for a student visa at the Italian consulate in their home country and obtain a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days of arrival in Italy.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Basilicata is a growing research institution recognized nationally and internationally. While relatively young, it has earned rankings across multiple global university ranking systems, with particular strengths in physics, environmental science, and chemistry.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | US News Global | #301 (tie) |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #1117 (Global) / #42 (Italy) |
| Chemistry | US News Global | #1265 (tie) |
| Engineering | US News Global | #1491 |
Features
The University of Basilicata is a public university founded in 1982, located in Potenza and Matera, Italy. Known for its student-centered environment, it offers modern facilities, advanced laboratories, and strong ties with local industries. The university provides undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs across various fields, including agriculture, engineering, environmental science, economics, and humanities. It emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and regional development, reflecting the unique character of Basilicata. With about 7,500 students and a high employment rate among graduates, the university promotes international collaboration through Erasmus+ and research partnerships, offering students global exposure in a supportive academic atmosphere.
Accommodation
Student housing and assistance in finding accommodation are available.
Work While Studying
Students can work part-time during their studies in accordance with Italian law.
Co-op/Internship Participation
The university offers internship and placement services in collaboration with companies and institutions.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
March - June
Location
Via Nazario Sauro, 85, 85100 Potenza PZ, Italy
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