University of Genoa
Genoa, Italy
University of Genoa (Università degli Studi di Genova)
Genoa, Italy
Founded
1481
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
36,000+
Schools & Departments
5 Schools, 22 Departments
Discover the University of Genoa: A Legacy of Excellence on the Italian Riviera
Discover the University of Genoa: A Legacy of Excellence on the Italian Riviera
The University of Genoa (UniGe) is a prestigious public research university and one of the largest in Italy. Founded in 1481, it is situated in the historic port city of Genoa on the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, offering students a unique blend of academic tradition and Mediterranean culture.
Today, UniGe operates through 22 departments organized into 5 schools, delivering over 130 degree programs including 15 taught entirely in English. The university enrolls more than 36,000 students, including over 3,000 international students from 110 countries, making it a vibrant and diverse academic community.
UniGe has a strong collaboration with the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) and is recognized for its research excellence, particularly in computer science, engineering, marine sciences, and medicine. The university holds 97 active patents and maintains an average of 14 new patent filings per year, well above the national average for Italian universities.
Key Milestones
- 1471: College of Theology established by Papal Bull of Pope Sixtus IV, laying the foundation for the university.
- 1481: College of Medicine formally established by the Council of Elders, marking the official founding of the university.
- 1640: The main university building on Via Balbi, designed by architect Bartolomeo Bianco, began operations.
- 1870: The Royal Naval School and Royal School of Economic Studies were established, later becoming the Faculties of Engineering and Economics.
Academic Structure and Schools at the University of Genoa
Academic Structure and Schools at the University of Genoa
The University of Genoa is organized into 5 schools encompassing 22 departments, offering a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The academic structure reflects the university's strengths in both traditional disciplines and cutting-edge research fields, with several programs available in English for international students.
School of Engineering
Coordinates departments in civil, mechanical, naval, electrical, and computer engineering, with a strong focus on maritime and sustainable energy projects tied to Genoa's port economy.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
- Computer Science and Robotics Engineering
School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Manages single-cycle master's degrees in medicine and dentistry, along with pharmaceutical sciences, enrolling over 4,000 students with access to leading hospital facilities.
- Medicine and Surgery
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Nursing and Health Sciences
School of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences
Encompasses departments in mathematics, physics, chemistry, earth sciences, and life sciences, emphasizing fundamental research and applications in environmental monitoring and materials science.
- Physics
- Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry
- Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences
School of Social Sciences
Formed in 2012 from merged faculties, this school includes departments of Economics, Law, Education, and Political Science, offering programs relevant to business, governance, and public policy.
- Economics and Finance
- Law and Jurisprudence
- Political Science and International Relations
School of Humanities
Covers a wide range of disciplines including history, philosophy, literature, foreign languages, architecture, and education sciences across multiple campus locations.
- Philosophy and Communication
- Foreign Languages and Literatures
- Architecture and Design
Inter-School Department (DIBRIS)
The Department of Computer Science, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering operates across schools, recognized as a leading center for AI, robotics, and computer science research in Europe.
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Bioengineering
- Robotics Engineering
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school diploma equivalent to Italian diploma di maturità (12 years of schooling)
- Language ProficiencyItalian B2 level for Italian-taught programs; English B2 for English-taught programs
- Pre-enrollmentNon-EU students must pre-enroll through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in their home country
- Entrance ExamRequired for some programs (e.g., Medicine, Architecture); check specific program requirements
- Application FeeApproximately EUR 30
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree (laurea triennale) or equivalent in a relevant field
- Language ProficiencyEnglish B2 level (IELTS, TOEFL, or medium of instruction certificate) for English-taught master's programs
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts and degree certificates, translated and legalized as required
- Curriculum VitaeUpdated CV highlighting academic achievements and relevant experience
- Additional RequirementsSome programs may require interviews, portfolios, or online assessments
Some English-taught master's programs open early applications for non-EU students starting in April.
Primary application window for most graduate programs for the following academic year.
Final enrollment and late application deadlines for select programs with available places.
Doctoral program deadlines vary by department. Check the university website for specific PhD call dates.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
As a public Italian university, the University of Genoa offers highly affordable tuition fees calculated based on family income (ISEE-U). International students submit an equalized ISEE-U (ISEE-U parificato) to determine their fee bracket. Fees range from approximately EUR 300 to EUR 3,000 per year.
| Fee Component | Lower Income Band | Higher Income Band |
|---|---|---|
| University Fee (Annual) | EUR 0 - 300 | EUR 2,000 - 3,000 |
| Regional Tax | EUR 140 | EUR 140 |
| Stamp Duty | EUR 16 | EUR 16 |
| Estimated Living Expenses | EUR 7,500 / year | EUR 8,340 / year |
| Total | EUR 456 - 7,956 / year (incl. living) | EUR 2,156 - 11,496 / year (incl. living) |
ALISEO Regional Scholarships
Scholarships funded by the Liguria Region through ALISEO, covering tuition fee waivers, housing benefits, and meal subsidies for students with financial need.
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition waiver plus housing and meal support
- Eligibility: Based on ISEE-U income and academic merit
- Application: Annual application through the ALISEO portal
UniGe Merit-Based Fee Reductions
The University of Genoa offers fee reductions and exemptions for high-performing students and those from low-income families, including specific programs for international students.
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition fee exemption
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and/or financial need (ISEE-U parificato)
- Application: Submit ISEE-U documentation through the UniGe student portal
Campus and Facilities Across the Ligurian Region
Campus and Facilities Across the Ligurian Region
The University of Genoa is spread across several independent campuses within the city and extends to regional locations throughout Liguria. The historic main campus on Via Balbi features baroque architecture designed by Bartolomeo Bianco in 1640, offering students a remarkable setting where centuries of history meet modern academic life.
The historic heart of UniGe housing the Rectorate, Economics, Humanities, Law and Political Science departments in a 17th-century palazzo.
Home to the Engineering departments and cutting-edge research laboratories in robotics, naval engineering, and computer science.
The university's botanical garden occupies one hectare in the city center, just above the main Via Balbi building, providing a tranquil study environment.
Housing & Student Services
Accommodation
Student housing is managed through ALISEO and the university's Cerco Alloggio platform, which helps international and Erasmus students find furnished rooms near campus.
- ALISEO-managed student residences allocated annually
- Shared accommodation from approximately EUR 200/month
- Cerco Alloggio online platform for off-campus housing
Student Facilities
UniGe provides comprehensive facilities including five school libraries, a sports center, free Italian language courses for international students, and digital library access.
- Five school libraries with digital and physical collections
- Fully equipped university sports center
- Free Italian language courses for non-native speakers
Student Life at the University of Genoa
Student Life at the University of Genoa
Student life at UniGe is enriched by the vibrant culture of Genoa itself—a historic Mediterranean port city with a lively arts scene, excellent cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. The university supports a wide range of cultural, social, and recreational activities for its diverse student body.
Genoa: A Mediterranean Gem for Students
Genoa: A Mediterranean Gem for Students
Living and Studying in Genoa
Genoa is the capital of Liguria and Italy's largest port city, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean lifestyle. Named European Capital of Culture in 2004, the city features one of Europe's largest historic centers with medieval and baroque architecture, UNESCO-listed palaces, and the famous narrow alleys called caruggi. The cost of living is notably lower than Milan, Rome, or Florence, making it an attractive choice for students.
UNESCO World Heritage
Genoa's Le Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli system were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006, surrounding students with centuries of art and architecture.
Mediterranean Lifestyle
Enjoy the Italian Riviera coastline, Ligurian cuisine including pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood, plus easy access to the beaches of Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Excellent Connectivity
Genoa's Christopher Columbus Airport connects to major European cities, while train stations provide fast links to Milan, Turin, Rome, and the French Riviera.
Affordable Student City
Compared to other major Italian cities, Genoa offers lower rent, affordable dining, and discounted public transport for students under 26, including a free CityPass for first-year students.
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Notable Employers and Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Welcome Office (Settore Welcome) provides information, support, and orientation for incoming international students, including assistance with enrollment, housing, and settling into life in Genoa.
Non-EU students receive guidance on student visa applications, residence permit procedures, and required documentation. Students can work up to 20 hours per week on a student visa.
UniGe offers free Italian language courses for non-native speakers to help international students integrate into daily life, access internships, and enhance their overall experience in Italy.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Genoa: World Rankings
University of Genoa: World Rankings
The University of Genoa consistently ranks among the top universities globally and in Italy, with particular strengths in engineering, computer science, life sciences, and humanities. The university is positioned within the global top 1.5% of universities worldwide.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering - Civil & Structural | QS Subject Rankings | #151-200 |
| Life Sciences & Medicine | QS Subject Rankings | #329 |
| Arts & Humanities | QS Subject Rankings | #387 |
| Computer Science | Microsoft Academic / European Rankings | #2 in Italy, #35 in Europe |
Features
The University of Genoa (UniGe), founded in 1481, is one of Italy’s leading public research universities, located in the Liguria region with campuses in Genoa, Savona, La Spezia, Imperia, and Ventimiglia. Hosting about 36,000 students and 1,300 academic staff, it offers a wide range of programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, medicine, economics, law, and social sciences. The university is renowned for excellence in naval architecture, robotics, medicine, and maritime studies, with strong ties to the Italian Institute of Technology. Research is a core strength, spanning robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, environmental studies, and renewable energy. UniGe has a strong international focus, with Erasmus+ exchanges, English-taught programs, and global research partnerships. Students benefit from modern facilities, innovation campuses, career services, and a rich Mediterranean lifestyle in Genoa, making UniGe a blend of history, innovation, and global opportunities.
Accommodation
The University of Genoa offers several accommodation services.\n
Work While Studying
Students at UniGe can undertake certain paid work while studying:\n\nThere are “temporary job” calls such as the “150 ore” (150 hours) part-time collaborations within the University.\n\nMore generally, students can use platforms and services UniGe offers to find job offers, part-time work and internships.\n\nNon-EU students with the appropriate residence permit are allowed part-time work, but must observe legal limits (in Italy typically up to 20 hours/week and a limit per year) under the “permesso di soggiorno” rules.
Co-op/Internship Participation
UniGe offers both curricular (part of the study plan) and extracurricular internships, plus support services.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
April - May
Location
Via Balbi, 5, 16126 Genova GE, Italy
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