Midwifery

University of Bologna, Italy

Bachelor's Degree

University of Bologna

University of Bologna, Italy

Midwifery

3000 € / years

Bachelor's Degree36 months

University of Bologna historic campus with arched corridors and medical faculty building, students walking through courtyard, warm Italian sunlight, Bologna cityscape in background

Bachelor's Degree (Laurea)

Bachelor's Degree in Midwifery (Ostetricia)

University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)

Midwifery / Nursing and Midwifery Sciences

Duration3 Years

LanguageItalian

FormatFull-time

Credits180 ECTS

Program Overview: Bachelor's Degree in Midwifery

The Bachelor's Degree in Midwifery at the University of Bologna trains professionals to support the physical and psychological well-being of women, couples, and families throughout every stage of life — from birth and adolescence through pregnancy, menopause, and beyond. Run by the School of Medicine within the Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), this qualifying programme prepares graduates to work autonomously as registered midwives in Italy and internationally.

The curriculum integrates biomedical sciences, obstetric and gynaecological care, neonatal health, and psycho-pedagogic disciplines with extensive clinical internships. Practical training standards align with European Commission Directives (EC 80/154, 80/155, and 2005/36), ensuring that graduates meet the competency requirements recognised across the European Union.

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the Western world and consistently ranks among Italy's top institutions. Students benefit from a rich academic tradition, modern clinical facilities, and a vibrant multicultural environment in one of Italy's most dynamic cities.

Key Program Highlights

EU-compliant training meeting European Commission directive standards for midwifery education
Extensive mandatory clinical internships in midwifery, gynaecology, and neonatology
Qualifying degree enabling immediate professional registration as a midwife upon graduation
Taught within the School of Medicine at one of the world's oldest and most respected universities

Curriculum and Modules

The three-year programme is structured into six semesters, combining lectures, practical exercises, workshops, seminars, and extensive clinical placements. Students progress through foundational biomedical sciences to advanced midwifery practice, with the clinical internship serving as a qualifying and integral component of the degree.

Biomedical and Biological Sciences

Approx. 12 ECTS

Covers human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology, providing the essential scientific foundation for understanding reproductive health and clinical midwifery practice.

Obstetrics and Midwifery Practice

Approx. 18 ECTS

Focuses on pregnancy care, labour management, delivery techniques, postpartum care, and breastfeeding support. Students develop hands-on clinical skills through simulation and supervised practice.

Gynaecology and Women's Health

Approx. 12 ECTS

Addresses gynaecological assessment, reproductive health across the lifespan, prevention and detection of female genital cancers, and family planning counselling.

Neonatology and Newborn Care

Approx. 8 ECTS

Covers neonatal assessment, newborn resuscitation, breastfeeding support, and the identification of pathological conditions requiring urgent medical intervention.

Hygiene, Prevention, and Public Health Sciences

Approx. 8 ECTS

Explores epidemiology, infection control, health promotion, and community health strategies with a focus on maternal and child health programmes.

Clinical Internship (Tirocinio)

Approx. 60 ECTS

A mandatory qualifying placement spanning all three years, covering midwifery, gynaecology, and neonatology in hospital and community settings. Students are assessed on behavioural, professional, and practical competencies.

Elective Modules

Health and Sex Education for Families and Communities Psychological Support in Perinatal Care Evidence-Based Midwifery Research Methods Intercultural Approaches to Maternal Health

Admission Requirements

The Midwifery programme has restricted access at the national level, meaning admission is based on a local entrance examination. Places are limited and determined annually by the Italian Ministry of Education. Prospective students should contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and the application process.

Academic Requirements

Secondary EducationItalian diploma di maturità or equivalent international secondary school qualification (12 years of schooling)
Entrance ExaminationMandatory national admission test covering logical reasoning, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics
Access TypeRestricted access at national level with local entrance examination — limited places available
Qualification RecognitionInternational qualifications must be officially recognised; contact Uni4Edu for equivalency assessment support
Visa RequirementsNon-EU students require a student visa and pre-enrolment through Italian diplomatic authorities; Uni4Edu can assist with the process

Language Requirements

Italian ProficiencyB2 level or higher (CEFR) in Italian is required, as the programme is taught entirely in Italian
Accepted CertificatesCILS B2, CELI 3, PLIDA B2, or equivalent Italian language certification
Language PreparationThe University of Bologna offers Italian language courses for international students; contact Uni4Edu for details

Required Documents

Valid passport or national ID card Secondary school diploma with certified translation and apostille (for international students) Academic transcripts with grades and subjects studied Italian language proficiency certificate (B2 level or above) Declaration of Value (Dichiarazione di Valore) from the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country

Application Deadlines

Entrance Exam Registration

Typically September (national test date set by the Ministry of Education) Entrance Examination

Typically October (following publication of results and rankings) Enrolment Deadline

For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu

Scholarships and Funding

The University of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region offer several financial support options for both Italian and international students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the funding opportunities best suited to your profile and needs.

Unibo Action 1 — Tuition Fee Waiver

Full tuition fee exemption

Available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students based on financial need (ISEE indicator). Eligible students receive a full waiver of tuition fees for the duration of their studies, subject to annual merit and income verification.

ER.GO Regional Scholarships (Emilia-Romagna)

The regional authority for the right to higher education provides grants covering accommodation, meals, and living expenses to eligible students based on economic need and academic merit. Benefits include subsidised university canteens and housing.

MAECI Scholarships (Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation offers scholarships to international students for study in Italy. These awards support students from specific countries and can be combined with other university benefits.

For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Midwifery programme are qualified to register with the professional order and practise as autonomous midwives in Italy and across the European Union. The programme's alignment with EU directives ensures that your qualification is recognised internationally, opening doors to diverse career paths in healthcare.

EU-wide Professional Recognition

High Demand for Midwives in Italy

Public & Private Sector Employment Options

Potential Career Roles

Registered Midwife in Hospital Obstetric Units Community Midwife in Primary Care Settings Freelance/Independent Midwife Maternal and Child Health Educator Family Planning and Reproductive Health Counsellor Neonatal Care Specialist

Typical Employers

Italian National Health Service (SSN) Hospitals University Hospitals and Teaching Clinics Private Maternity and Women's Health Clinics Community Health Centres (Consultori Familiari) International Health Organisations (WHO, UNICEF, MSF) Research Institutions and Academic Departments

Rankings and Recognition

The University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum) is the oldest university in the Western world, founded in 1088, and consistently ranks among the top institutions globally. It holds the number one position in Italy across multiple major ranking systems and is internationally recognised for its excellence in medicine and health sciences.

THE World University Rankings

#130

2025

QS World University Rankings

#138

2025

US News Best Global Universities

#141

2025

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking)

Top 200

2025

Subject	Ranking Body	Rank
Clinical Medicine	US News	#108
Nursing (L/SNT1 Programme Class)	National (Italy)	#1 in Italy (THE 2025)
Arts and Humanities	QS	#49
Life Sciences and Medicine	QS	Top 200

How to Apply

Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.