The University of Padua is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious seats of learning. As a multi-disciplinary institute of higher education, the University aims to provide its students with professional training and a solid cultural background. 

Founded in 1222, Padua’s Studium Patavinum was a place of study that readily welcomed Italian students and scholars, as well as those from various European countries searching for cultural freedom and expression. This freedom continues to define and express the essence of the University through its motto as Universa universis patavina libertas.

The University of Padua has been a proud pioneer of several endeavours, including the first university botanical garden in the world founded in 1545 that now holds its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  In 1594, the first permanent anatomical theatre was inaugurated, and in 1678, Elena Lucrezia Cornaro became the first woman in the world to receive a Doctor of Philosophy degree.

Still today, the University of Padua holds some impressive numbers. With over 70,000 students (over 7,000 international students) and 2,200 teaching staff within its 32 departments, and 8 schools, the University also employs over 2,400 technical administrators. 

For some time now, The University of Padua has enjoyed a high-ranking position in both Italian and international ranking agencies for its quality of teaching, research activities and student services. Confirming results include the number of works held in its scientific research archive, a cutting-edge sector that added 13,000 publications and hundreds of active projects during the 2020/2021 academic year alone.

To find out more please visit https://www.unipd.it/en/the-university