University of Pavia

University of Pavia Overview

The University of Pavia, known as Università degli Studi di Pavia (UNIPV) in Italian, is a venerable institution located in Pavia, Lombardy, Italy. Its roots trace back to the early 9th century, with evidence of educational activities as early as 1361, making it one of the oldest universities globally. For centuries, it held a dominant position as the sole university in Milan and the greater Lombardy region.

Today, the University of Pavia continues to maintain a distinguished reputation in the academic world. In 2022, it earned recognition from the Times Higher Education as one of the top 10 universities in Italy and among the top 300 worldwide. With a diverse student body of over 20,000 individuals hailing from Italy and various parts of the globe, it is a testament to the university's global appeal.

The University of Pavia, founded in 1361, holds a distinguished place in the annals of academia and stands as a testament to Italy's rich intellectual heritage. Its establishment was marked by the patronage of Emperor Charles IV, who granted it the privilege of educating scholars in a wide array of disciplines. Over the centuries, the university played an integral role in the Renaissance, fostering the growth of humanist ideas and scientific inquiry. It was here that illustrious figures such as Gerolamo Cardano and Alessandro Volta made groundbreaking contributions to mathematics and physics. Throughout the centuries, it has been a nurturing ground for notable figures, including Christopher Columbus, Gerolamo Cardano, Lazzaro Spallanzani, Alessandro Volta, and many others who have contributed significantly to their respective fields.

The institution comprises 18 departments and 9 faculties, offering a wide range of educational opportunities. These include more than 80 undergraduate programs, over 40 master's programs, and approximately 20 doctoral programs, with a notable selection available in English. It is particularly welcoming to international students, with around 1,500 international students joining its ranks annually. With a total of nine faculties, including the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Political Science and Law, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Faculty of Mathematics, Faculty of Physics, Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, and the Faculty of Humanities, students have a plethora of academic disciplines to choose from. 

The University is unique in its dispersed campus approach, where its buildings and facilities are spread across the city, often referred to as a "city campus." This arrangement provides students with the opportunity to be integrated into the life of Pavia, enriching their overall educational experience.

The University is deeply involved in cultural and scientific activities, boasting numerous museums, including the University History Museum, a botanical garden, research centers, university libraries, and a university press. Additionally, it maintains a valuable partnership with Policlinico San Matteo, where medical students gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations.

Internationally, the University of Pavia is a proud member of the COIMBRA Group and the European University Association. It actively participates in the Erasmus Programme, fostering student exchanges with various European universities, enriching the academic journey of its students.