University of Parma logo

University of Parma

Parma, IT · Ranking #28

The University of Parma is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with origins dating back to 962. It is a public research university offering programs in engineering, medicine, economics, food science, law, and humanities. The university is particularly renowned for its expertise in food science and technology due to its location in Italy’s food valley. It maintains strong links with industry and research institutions and offers several programs in English. The campus combines historic buildings with modern facilities, providing a high-quality academic environment.

University of Parma logo

University of Parma

About the university

The University of Parma is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with origins dating back to 962. It is a public research university offering programs in engineering, medicine, economics, food science, law, and humanities. The university is particularly renowned for its expertise in food science and technology due to its location in Italy’s food valley. It maintains strong links with industry and research institutions and offers several programs in English. The campus combines historic buildings with modern facilities, providing a high-quality academic environment.

Key information

  • Location: Parma, IT
  • Ranking #28
  • QS #601
  • THE #501
  • US News #312
  • National ranking #20
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Food Science
  • Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Biology
  • Chemistry

Programs (29)

  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Marketing
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Journalism and Communication
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Philology and Languages
  • Translation and Interpreting
  • Fine Arts
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • International Relations
  • Political Science
  • Art History
  • Environmental Science
  • Anthropology
  • Linguistics

Student body

  • Total students: 28,000
  • Undergraduate: 18,000
  • Graduate: 10,000
  • International students: 7%

Campus life

The University of Parma offers a balanced campus life combining historic architecture with modern facilities. Students benefit from a welcoming environment in a medium-sized city with a strong cultural and culinary tradition. The university promotes student engagement through cultural events, sports, and academic initiatives.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €350 - €800 / per month

Housing options

  • University dormitories
  • Student residences
  • Shared apartments
  • Private housing

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic societies
  • Cultural clubs
  • International student associations
  • Volunteer groups

Sports

  • Football
  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Athletics
  • Swimming

Career & internships

Employment rate: 87%

Partner companies

  • Barilla
  • Parmalat
  • Chiesi
  • Deloitte
  • PwC
  • Accenture
  • IBM
  • Siemens

Internships: The University of Parma provides internship opportunities through partnerships with companies, especially in the food, pharmaceutical, and engineering sectors. Many programs include practical training components. Career services assist students with internships and job placement in Italy and internationally.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High school diploma
  • Academic transcripts
  • Language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Passport copy
  • Application form
  • Motivation letter

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • €900 - €3,800 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 55.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Parma offers scholarships based on academic merit and financial need. International students can apply for regional scholarships such as ER.GO Emilia-Romagna, which may cover tuition fees, accommodation, and meals. Additional opportunities include Erasmus+ mobility programs and university-specific grants.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 962
  • Teaching languages: english, italian
  • Study formats: offline

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