The University of Padua: A World-Class Institution Rooted in Excellence
A world-leading research-intensive university, the University of Padua (UNIPD) is ranked among the top 250 universities globally and recognized by ANVUR (Italian National Agency for the Evaluation of the University and Research System) as Italy’s best for teaching quality. Founded in 1222, UNIPD combines eight centuries of academic excellence with modern innovation, offering students a vibrant, student-centered experience in one of Italy’s most dynamic cities.
Over 800 Years of Academic Freedom
Since its founding by students and professors seeking academic freedom, the University of Padua has been a beacon of intellectual pursuit. Guided by the motto Universa Universis Patavina Libertas (Padua freedom is universal for everyone), it has inspired groundbreaking contributions to science, medicine, and the humanities.
Notable alumni include Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei, who laid the foundations for modern science, and Andreas Vesalius and William Harvey, pioneers in medicine. The University also made history in 1678 when Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia became the first woman in the world to graduate. This legacy of innovation and inclusivity continues to define Padua today.
A Global University with Boundless Opportunities
UNIPD is a multidisciplinary institution with 8 Schools and 32 Departments, offering a broad range of programs, including 60+ English-taught degrees. Its thriving international community includes over 7,800 students from around the world.
The University collaborates with over 2,800 institutions in 89 countries and is a proud member of prestigious networks like VIU, the Arqus European University Alliance and the Coimbra Group, fostering global exchange and research opportunities for students, researchers, professors, and staff. Students also benefit from joint and double degree programmes in cooperation with key partners worldwide, like those of the prestigious Top International Managers in Engineering (TIME) Association, and the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees.
Pioneering Research Excellence
UNIPD is renowned for its groundbreaking research addressing global challenges and advancing knowledge, science, and society. UNIPD has 13 of its 32 departments recognized as Departments of Excellence by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MIUR).
With world-class facilities, cutting-edge research infrastructures, and tailored support services, UNIPD fosters innovation. Its Talent in Research Programme supports outstanding researchers and post-docs with initiatives like MSCA MaRaThoN @Unipd, the Seal of Excellence @Unipd, and STARS Grants.
World-Class Facilities and Unique Experiences
At the heart of the University is the University Hospital, ranked among the top 100 hospitals globally. This facility integrates world-class healthcare, education, and research, shaping the future of medicine.
Other exceptional facilities include:
- The Veterinary Teaching Hospital: A state-of-the-art center for animal healthcare and research.
- The Botanical Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage site and hub for biodiversity studies.
- The Astrophysical Observatories in Asiago and Cima Ekar: Home to Italy’s largest telescopes and cutting-edge research programs.
- The Galilean School of Higher Education: An elite institution offering personalized tutoring, specialized courses, and funding for books, accommodation, and study trips.
Padua: A City Shaped by Students
Padua is a vibrant, student-centered city where over 30% of the population are students. With its charming streets, bustling piazzas, and rich cultural heritage, the city offers an unforgettable experience. From the stunning frescoes of the Scrovegni Chapel to lively cafés and markets, Padua seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.
The University’s facilities are integrated into the city, creating a unique academic and cultural ecosystem where students and residents thrive together
UNIPD Summer Schools
UNIPD offers a variety of Summer Schools, including both subject-based and interdisciplinary summer schools. They are open to a variety of students, from high-school up to PhD students.
Discover UNIPD summer school and book your summer with us
Experience:
Experience the Italian academic life beforehand through our preparatory Summer Schools
Application: February 3rd 2025 – March 20th 2025
Summer Schools on offer in July 2025:
Introduction to Earth and Climate Dynamics 28/07/25-03/08/25
Nursing Perspectives: Fundamentals Meet Innovations 07/07/25 - 11/07/25
Digital and Sustainable Industrial Systems 14/07/25 - 18/07/25
Integrated Structural Biology 30/06/25 - 05/07/25
Expand:
Expand your knowledge with highly specialised and multidisciplinary Summer Schools
Application: February 3rd 2025 – March 20th 2025
Summer Schools on offer in July 2025:
The Arca Initiative: Unlocking Psychological Expertise for Academic and Business Success 30/06/25 - 25/07/25
Circular Economy for The Energy Transition – Experimental, Theoretical and Methodological Tools 30/06/25 - 04/07/25
Resilient Agricultural Systems for Climate Change Adaptation 07/07/25 - 11/07/25
Animals in a Changing World: Tackling Environmental Challenges for a Sustainable Future 07/07/25 - 11/07/25
Space Ethics 21/07/25 - 25/07/25
Why Do We Study Plants? 23/06/25 - 02/07/25
Explore:
Explore your specific field of interest with dedicated Summer Schools
Summer Schools on offer in 2025:
Conflicts and Disputes: Prevention and Resolution Through the Human Rights Perspective 07/07/25 - 11/07/25
The Future of Text 07/07/25 - 12/07/25
IQLA-GIAT Summer School in Quantitative Analysis of Textual Data 08/09/25 - 12/09/25
Reinforcement Learning and Large Language Models for Robotics 21/07/25 - 25/07/25
An Interactive Course on Pleural Diseases: Exploring the Old, Discovering the New, Charting the Future 16/07/25 - 22/07/25
Teaming Up for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction; an Integrated Perspective 02/06/25 - 07/06/25
Earth Sensing 07/09/25 - 13/09/25
Food Safety, Public Health & Animal Welfare – iMOVES & FB. 24/06/25 - 27/06/25
youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/UniPadova
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/universitapadova
X: http://twitter.com/UniPadova
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/unipd
Telegram: https://www.unipd.it/telegram
