Overview: The University of Bologna
The University of Bologna (Università di Bologna, UniBo), established in 1088 in Bologna, Italy, stands as the world’s oldest continually operating university. As a renowned public and comprehensive research-intensive institution, UniBo has long been a center of academic excellence and innovation in Europe. The university operates five campuses (Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini), serving a diverse academic community of over 87,000 students. Its extensive academic infrastructure includes 32 departments and 11 schools, with significant engagement in both undergraduate and postgraduate education.
Academic Strengths and Structure
UniBo is globally recognized for its robust programs in the humanities, law, medicine, engineering, economics, and the natural and social sciences. The university’s interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration across traditional disciplinary boundaries, fostering innovative research and learning. UniBo is a research powerhouse: it ranks consistently among the top 200 universities worldwide (QS, THE), and is a prominent member of the prestigious Coimbra Group and the European University Association. In 2022, over 2,000 research projects were active, many with international partners, including joint/dual degree offerings and participation in Erasmus Mundus. The university’s scientific output is further evidenced by its substantial publication record and its contribution to the development of the European Higher Education Area (Bologna Process).
Student Life and Community
Campus life at the University of Bologna is vibrant, supported by more than 200 student associations, cultural events, and a wide spectrum of student services, including academic advising, career guidance, and psychological support. The university embraces diversity, hosting over 6,000 international students from more than 120 countries, nurturing an inclusive and multicultural environment. UniBo offers a range of student accommodation options, modern sports facilities, and extensive resources for the arts. Extracurricular life is further enriched by music, theater, film, and museum offerings—integral to Bologna’s lively urban setting and the university’s commitment to holistic student development.
Mission, Vision, and Values
UniBo is dedicated to advancing knowledge through research, fostering innovation, and shaping global citizens committed to sustainability, inclusion, and equity. Its mission affirms a commitment to intellectual freedom, scientific rigor, and social responsibility at the heart of its educational philosophy.
