University of Turin

University of Turin Overview

The University of Turin, also known as Università degli Studi di Torino or UNITO, is a renowned public research university situated in the beautiful city of Turin, Italy, within the Piedmont region. Established in 1404, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest universities in Europe and continues to be a significant player in both research and education. It consistently ranks among the top 5 universities in Italy, and it stands at the third position for research activities in the country, according to the latest data by ANVUR.

The origins trace back to 1404 when it was founded as a studium. This ambitious endeavor was initiated by Prince Ludovico di Savoia. The choice of Turin as its location was strategic; the city's geographical position at the crossroads of the Alps, Liguria, and Lombardy made it an ideal hub for higher learning. The university's establishment was officially ratified by papal bulls and imperial certifications in the early 15th century. However, the early years of the university were marked by discontinuity due to epidemics and regional crises. The university had to relocate to Chieri and later to Savigliano between 1427 and 1434. It finally returned to Turin in 1436 under the rule of Ludovico di Savoia. During this period, the university's organization and structure were continually evolving, eventually settling into a more stable phase. The turning point in the university's history came during the reign of Victor Amadeus II, who implemented significant reforms. These reforms, inspired by the University of Bologna, transformed the University of Turin into a model for many other universities. This era also witnessed remarkable scholars like Cesare Lombroso, Carlo Forlanini, and Arturo Graf contributing to the institution's prestige.

In the 20th century, the University has played a pivotal role in the Italian anti-fascism movement. However, after the post-war period, the university faced challenges, including the need to accommodate a growing number of students and improve campus infrastructure. It wasn't until the end of the century that renewed investments breathed new life into the institution.

The University boasts a comprehensive range of academic programs that cater to a diverse array of disciplines, ensuring a rich educational experience for its students. These programs span a wide spectrum of fields, encompassing everything from the realms of agriculture, economics, and education to the captivating worlds of foreign languages and literature, law, and philosophy. The university also offers programs in the natural sciences, providing a solid foundation for budding scientists, while its esteemed faculties of medicine, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine groom the healthcare professionals of the future. Furthermore, the University of Turin is home to robust programs in political sciences and psychology, fostering a deep understanding of society and human behavior. Through these multifaceted programs, the university nurtures a dynamic and vibrant academic community, preparing its students for a world filled with endless possibilities and challenges.

It' main campus is located in Turin, with additional decentralized faculties in other parts of Piedmont. These decentralized locations include Asti, Alba, Peveragno, Saluzzo, Fossano, Verzuolo, Ormea, Sanremo, Pinerolo, Biella, Savigliano, Cuneo, Orbassano, Aosta, and Moretta.

The university is committed to providing a conducive learning environment. It has undertaken a ten-year construction project to enhance its premises, including refurbishing existing buildings and acquiring new properties. Some notable additions include the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture in Grugliasco and the Palazzina Luigi Einaudi for the Faculties of Law and Political Science.

The University of Turin has a strong international presence, with a focus on cooperation with organizations like the United Nations. It hosts a significant number of international students, offers numerous double-degree programs, and teaches courses in English to cater to a diverse global student body. It also participates in student exchange programs such as Erasmus+ and has over 430 academic cooperation agreements with universities and research institutions from 79 countries.