The University of Florence is a significant and well-respected center for research and higher education in Italy, with about 1,600 technical and administrative staff members, 1,600 research assistants, and 1,800 professors and internal research employees. It provides various study programs at different levels in all knowledge areas.
With over 140 Degree programs (First and Second Cycle, corresponding to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. Degrees) set up in 10 Schools and 51,000 enrolled students, one-fourth of them are from outside Tuscany, Tuscany; there are over 140 Degree programs. Florence University grants more than 9,000 degrees annually. According to alumni data, the proportion of graduates working one year after receiving their First Level degree is higher than the national average.
History
The University of Florence originated from the Studium Generale established by the Florentine Republic in 1321, offering subjects such as Civil and Canon Law, Literature, and Medicine, and later adding Theology. It received recognition from Pope Clement VI and became an imperial university in 1364. During the Medici rule, it was transferred between Florence and Pisa, with teaching and research continuing in Florence through various academies.
In 1859, a unified structure emerged as the Higher Institute of Vocational and Advanced Studies, which was officially granted the title of the university in 1924. The university organized itself into various faculties over time, including Agriculture, Architecture, Economics, Law, Humanities, Education, Medicine, and Engineering. In 2013, all faculties were abolished, and the responsibility of teaching and services was given to the Schools. The University has multiple campuses across the town, including a new Science Campus in Sesto Fiorentino, as well as Empoli, Calenzano, Pistoia, and Prato.
Types of Degree Programs Offered at Florence University
There are four major types of degree programs offered by Florence University
- Laurea (L), a First Cycle Degree that is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree after completing a three-year initial study program
- Laurea Magistrale (LM), a Second Cycle Degree that, with successful completion of a further two-year study program (120 credits), equates to a master’s degree
- Single Cycle Degree, which combines a bachelor’s and master’s degree, is awarded after five or six years of study (300 or 360 credits), but only for certain courses.
- Ph.D. (Research Doctorate)
The Italian academic system’s third cycle of education, the Dottorato di Ricerca (Research Doctorate-Ph.D.), is designed to help students develop the skills required to conduct highly qualified research in academic settings in both public and private institutions.
The typical length of the course is 36 months. Every year at the start of the summer, the request for entrance to the system is released. After the defense, or discussion, of the final thesis, the Dottore di Ricerca (Ph.D.) title is granted.
- Specialization Course
To enroll in Specialization Courses, Candidates must possess a Second Cycle Degree (Laurea Magistrale) or an equivalent to be eligible for Specialization Schools. Additionally, students must possess the National Board Qualification as MD (abilitazione all’esercizio delle professione) to enroll in the School of Human Health Sciences courses credits).
Departments of Florence University
The University of Florence is a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and research capabilities. At the heart of the university are its various departments, which are the key organizational structures responsible for the university’s research activities, teaching programs, and knowledge transfer. These departments offer a diverse range of academic programs and research opportunities, covering a broad spectrum of disciplines as follows:
Biomedical Area
- Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA)
- Experimental and Clinical Medicine
- Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”
- Health Sciences (DSS)
Scientific Area
- Physics and Astronomy
- Biology (BIO)
- Earth Sciences (DST)
- Chemistry “Ugo Schiff” (DICUS)
- Mathematics and Computer Science “Ulisse Dini” (DIMAI)
- Statistics, Computer Science, Applications “G. Parenti” (DISIA)
Social Sciences Area
- Economics and Management (DISEI)
- Legal Sciences (DSG)
- Political and Social Sciences (DSPS)
Technological Area
- Architecture (DIDA)
- Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI)
- Civil and Environmental Engineering (DICEA)
- Industrial Engineering (DIEF)
- Information Engineering (DINFO)
Humanities and Education Area
- Humanities
- History, Archaeology, Geography, Fine and Performing Arts (SAGAS)
- Education, Languages, Intercultural, Literature, and Psychology (FORLILPSI)
Scholarship and Grants offered by Florence University
Working part-time
For jobs at the university’s libraries, museums, and other service departments
Grants to support tutoring efforts.
To assist pupils with their academics
Refunds of taxes and fees and other financial advantages
offered to encourage enrollment in specific programs of significant national and European significance.
Internationally protected students
Access and assistance for students under international protection seeking refuge
DSU Toscana (external website link)
DSU, the local organization for the right to higher education, provides public announcements regarding student scholarships. This is a fully funded opportunity.
You can also explore other universities in famous cities in Italy e.g. Ancona University, Brescia University, Messina University, Universita di Milano, Parma University, and Verona University.
Opportunities of personalized assistance for Specially abled or disabled students
The University of Florence welcomes students with disabilities and provides services to ensure full access to academic resources. Students can request individual learning aids or personalized assistance, and the university will arrange necessary actions after assessing the case. The university’s Orientation and Listening Service for Inclusion collaborate with the Careggi University Hospital to design an individualized study support pathway for students with disabilities or learning difficulties. A psychologist will identify adaptations and technological aids through a confidential interview, and students can also receive personal support from a tutor.
FAQs
What services does the University of Florence provide for students with disabilities, and how can students request them?
The University of Florence provides services to enable full access to academic resources for students with disabilities. Students can request individual learning aids or personalized assistance, and the university will arrange necessary actions after assessing the case.
How does the Orientation and Listening Service for Inclusion at the University of Florence support students with disabilities or learning difficulties?
The Orientation and Listening Service for Inclusion at the University of Florence collaborate with the Careggi University Hospital to design an individualized study support pathway for students with disabilities or learning difficulties. A psychologist will identify adaptations and technological aids.
What are the admission requirements for Florence University?
Admission requirements vary depending on the program and level of study. Generally, applicants must provide evidence of their academic qualifications, including transcripts and diplomas, and meet the language proficiency requirements. Some programs may require additional documents, such as a statement of purpose or letters of recommendation.
What are the available programs at Florence University?
Florence University offers various programs in various fields, including agriculture, architecture, economics, education, engineering, humanities, law, mathematics, medicine, natural sciences, political science, psychology, and more.
Is there a separate application process for international students?
International students are required to follow the same application process as domestic students. However, they may need additional documentation, such as proof of language proficiency or visas.
Does Florence University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes, Florence University offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to both domestic and international students. Eligibility criteria and application requirements may vary depending on the scholarship or aid program. In general, scholarship is offered as per need and family income category.
