The University of Catania is the 29th oldest university in the world which was founded in 1434 by Alfonso V, The King of Spain and Sicily. It is also the oldest university in Sicily hosting over 40,000 students.
The University offers 46 three year undergraduate programs, 7 one cycle (5 to 6 years) programs, 49 master’s and 18 doctoral programs. Università degli Studi di Catania has three teaching centers in different locations. These facilities are School of Modern Languages in Rangusa, School of Architecture in Syracuse and in Scuola.
The University of Catania has been developing and sustaining its educational life with many international students since 1434, in a city with the living history and culture, one of the oldest universities in Europe with high quality of education, affordable university and living costs, environmental friendly and sustainable. The University offers advanced centers for innovation, science, health and sports, and many research fields.
The University have the most modern and state-of-the-art laboratories to shed light on the continuation of existence of ancient Mediterranean culture. In addition it is culturally dynamic and suitable for students and individuals who like to mingle with the university community as a whole
Where is the University of Catania Located?
Catania is located on the Catania Plain, between the Ionian Sea and the slopes of Mount Etna being the second largest city in Sicily in terms of population.
Visitors are welcomed in every season by majestic power of Etna, its snow-capped peaks, the crystal-clear sea of Ionian coast, its historical and archaeological heritage, its baroque churches and palaces, its Eno gastronomic traditions and music, the innate warmth and hospitality of the people who live there and rich cultural heritage.
The University of Catania is located between the city center and the coastal beach. Students studying at the University in Sicily can easily reach other Italian cities by railway and metro. There are also a lot of opportunities for cycling in the city.
You can also read our blogpost about ” Cities to Visit in Italy “.
World Ranking of University of Catania
- The University of Catania is ranked 456th according to CWUR World University Rankings of 2020-21.
- The QS Global World Ranking for 2021 places the University between 801 and 1000 overall.
- According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject of 2020, it was placed in the range of 151 to 200 in the Agriculture & Forestry area.
- It was listed between positions 501 and 600 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings of 2021.
Additionally, you can review our article about “Top 500 Italian Universities” .
Famous Graduates of the University of Catania
- Filippo Drago (Italian neurologist, psychiatrist)
- Vitaliano Brancati (Italian novelist, playwright, poet, screenwriter)
- Lucia Azzolina (Member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies)
- Giulia Grillo (Member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies)
- Sandro La Vignera (Official Researcher of Endocrinology, University of Catania)
- Anna Valle (Italian actress and former beauty queen)
- Salvo Baglio (Professor of Electrical Instrumentation and Measurement, University of Catania)
- Pietro Bartolo (Member of the European Parliament)
Student Life at The University of Catania
You will have an unforgettable time in Catania, one the most stunning cities of of Sicily, while learning, living, and exploring Sicily. Catania is a metropolis with numerous aspects. Catania is a starting place for the baroque journeys and rich artistic creations of Greek and Roman culture, situated between Mount Etna and the crystal clear sea. It is renowned for both its vibrant and energetic entertainment and the friendliness of the locals. One of the finest locations to enjoy yourself while learning over here.
As a student at the University of Catania, you will find there is always something to do and that the city never sleeps and it is full of energy. You can try different tastes of both Italian and Sicilian food, go to the seaside cafeterias just a few minutes from the University, visit the cultural and natural sights or experience deep meditation in the peaceful sounds of hundreds of boats.
The Etna Volcano, right next to the city of Catania, is active and the highest volcano on the European continent, so it is clearly visible from the city. Declared as a World Heritage in 2013, you can climb to the volcano for a small amount of fee on daily tours and have an unforgettable experience.
You can also read our article about ” Moving to Italy and Living in Italy “.
Departments at the University of Catania
The University of Catania briefly UniCT, offers a lot of programs taught in English and Italian. Students have the opportunity to study in many departments from undergraduate, graduate and doctoral (PhD) programs at this university, which accepts quite high number of international students every year.
Undergraduate Departments
- Agricultural Sciences and Technology
- Catering and logistics science and technology of the Mediterranean food
- Food Science and Technology
- Land and Landscape Planning and Protection
- Biology
- Environmental and Natural Sciences
- Geological Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Exercise and Sport Sciences
- Occupational Therapy
- Orthoptics and ophthalmologic assistance
- Physiotherapy
- Chemistry
- Industrial Chemistry
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Dietetics
- Imaging and Radiotherapy Techniques
- Psychiatric Rehabilitation Techniques
- Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Basic Degree in Tourism
- Educational Sciences
- Psychological Sciences and Techniques
- Computer Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Cardiocirculatory Physiopathology and Cardiovascular Perfusion
- Midwifery
- Cultural Heritage
- European, EuroAmerican and Oriental Languages and Culture
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Sciences and Languages for Communication
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Audioprothesic Techniques
- Biomedical Laboratory Techniques
- Nursing
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Physics
- History, Politics and International Relations
- Sciences of Administration and Organization
- Sociology and Social Work
- Foreign Languages and Literatures
- Linguistic and Intercultural Mediation
Departments for 5 to 6 Years
- Architecture
- Building Construction and Architectural Engineering
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology
- Pharmacy
- Medicine and Surgery
- School of Dentistry
- Law
Master’s Degrees taught in English
- Automation Engineering and Control of Complex Systems
- Chemical Engineering for Industrial Sustainability
- Data Science for Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Global Politics and Euro-Mediterranean Relations
- Physics
Additionally, do not forget to check our articles of “University Education in Italy (Bachelor’s Degree)” and “Postgraduate Education in Italy” for more detailed information about the Programs in Italy.
Tuition Fees at the University of Catania
Tuition fees at the University of Catania are calculated based on family income and the student’s country of origin. Fees range from €150 to €3500 and can be paid in installments.
Unict (University of Catania) is a public university that offers education well below the average prices when it is estimated in terms of university prices in Europe and worldwide. This high quality and low cost education opportunity in Italy is a great option for students.
The University of Catania offers a lot of financial support to its students: it is possible to benefit from discounted prices for theater, museum and cinema. Students can buy books at a reduced price and also enjoy sports activities at an affordable price. The University also gives some awards to successful students. You can benefit from scholarships, accommodation and canteen services. There are also courses of Italian language.
Scholarships Opportunities at The University of Catania
Italy is one of the Countries in Europe that offers the most scholarship opportunities. These opportunities vary according to the university and department you are going to apply. In Italy, which consists of regions, each region offers scholarships according to its own rules. Scholarship opportunities vary according to family income, success and personal income of the students.
In addition to the fact that living costs in Catania are quite low, students are able to spend their education life quite comfortable by taking advantages of scholarship opportunities in Italy.
Application and Admission Requirements
International students who wish to study at The University of Catania in undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral (PhD) programs should meet certain requirements. In general, the following criteria must be met at the application stage;
- In order to apply for undergraduate programs, it is required to have completed 12 years of education and to have obtained the right to be placed in any University.
- B2 level language proficiency in English or Italian is required for all undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. (You can also check our article about “IELTS Exam“).
- It is required to be graduated from any undergraduate program while applying to master’s programs. In addition, the graduate field you are going to apply must be related to the field of graduation.
- Student visa, passport issuance and other consular procedures must be completed.
Student Dormitory and Accommodation Facilities of The University of Catania
The University of Catania provides dormitories for its students. In addition, there are many low cost accommodation options in Catania and nearby cities, such as private dorms, rental rooms, shared apartments or studio apartments so there are many alternatives for students to choose from.
The city of Catania is considered to be very affordable option in comparison with the other Italian cities in terms of living costs, housing opportunities and prices.
Also, do not forget to check out our related articles “Accommodation in Italy” and “Residence Permit in Italy“!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the University of Catania public or private?
The University of Catania is a public university. This public university, where it is possible to study in English and in Italian, accepts many international students every year. Your cultural world will be enriched while studying in this unique city of Sicily.
Is the University of Catania free and if not, how much does tuition cost?
The University of Catania, a public university, has a modest annual tuition fee. Fees for undergraduate and graduate programs range from 150 to 3,500 Euros on average. University fees in Italy depend on various factors such as the program to be studied, language preference and the city in which the University campus is located.
Is it expensive to live in Catania and what are the costs of living and accommodation?
The cost of living in Catania is below the average cost of living in Italy. The average cost of living in Catania, including accommodation costs, is between 700 and 900 Euros per month. In other words, if you are a student in Catania, you can live for an average of 700 Euros in a scenario where you evaluate your expenses among low cost options in every aspect.
What are the dormitory and scholarship opportunities at the University of Catania?
There are numerous public and private dormitories in Catania, both on campus and all around the city. Students who is planning to go to Italy for education purposes can settle in any dormitory by applying for many dormitories if they have prior information. In addition, conscientious students will easily benefit from the scholarship opportunities given to international students in Italy.
What is the language of study at the University of Catania?
The programs at the University of Catania are bilingual, both in English and Italian. In general, all programs are available in Italian, but not all programs are available in English. At Unict, a certain number of undergraduate programs are taught in English, while the number of English language programs are highly available for master programs.
