Overview: Foro Italico University of Rome
The University of Rome Foro Italico (Università degli Studi di Roma "Foro Italico") is Italy’s premier public institution dedicated exclusively to sport sciences, founded in 1998 in Rome, Italy. Emerging from the historic Istituto Superiore di Educazione Fisica, the university is located in the distinguished Foro Italico sports complex along the Tiber River. It is a research-intensive and teaching-focused university, enrolling approximately 2,000 students each year and offering a close-knit academic environment, with a single specialized campus that emphasizes both undergraduate and graduate education.
Foro Italico University’s academic strength lies in sport sciences, kinesiology, physical education, and related life sciences. Its flagship programs include bachelor’s and master’s degrees in sport and exercise sciences, as well as Europe’s renowned joint Master’s in Physical Activity for Health, offered in collaboration with universities in Norway, Denmark, and Austria. The university prides itself on its interdisciplinary curriculum, seamlessly combining scientific research, health management, and the social and psychological dimensions of sport. The institution boasts a significant research output in sports medicine, biomechanics, and applied sports technology. It is ranked among the top European universities specializing in sport and physical education, with strong ties to national Olympic bodies and global sports federations.
Student life at Foro Italico University is vibrant and engaging, reflecting a dynamic mix of academic rigor and extracurricular enrichment. The campus hosts multiple student-led sports clubs, associations, and cultural groups that foster a spirit of camaraderie and teamwork. Internationalization is central to the community, welcoming students from over 20 countries and promoting diversity and inclusivity at all levels. Facilities include state-of-the-art sports centers, student residences, and dedicated spaces for arts and wellness activities, while robust counseling services and academic support ensure a welcoming environment for all.
The mission of Foro Italico University of Rome is to advance excellence in sport science, health, and education. Its vision is rooted in promoting innovation, global citizenship, and lifelong wellness, guided by values of equity, integrity, and sustainable development in both academia and society.