Studying in Padua

University of Padua: Overview (“A City-based University”)
In Padua, the university campus is spread out throughout the city centre, making it a city-based university in a student-centred town. Your home Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology (FISPPA) is located at the historic Piazza Capitaniato. Libraries, canteens, study rooms, and other amenities are all conveniently located within walking or cycling distance from the main university buildings, making student life easy and accessible. The department is known for bringing together highly renowned scholars from various fields to work on interdisciplinary approaches to human experience in social and intercultural contexts.

Career Opportunities
When you are ready to plan your career journey, our Career Service is here to help. We offer a wide range of extracurricular internships and job placements both in Italy and abroad. During your semester in Padua, you can take advantage of SPOT-specific events as well as of Career Days, company presentations, and other initiatives designed to connect you with valuable work opportunities in your chosen field.

Committed to Excellence in Research
If you are passionate about academia and research, Padua is the place to be. Our university is ranked the best in Italy for research quality, offering over 40 PhD programmes across various disciplines. You will have the chance to collaborate with top academic staff on groundbreaking research projects, should you decide to pursue an academic career.

Alumni Community
After graduation, you will join a prestigious network that has been influencing global change since 1222. As an Alumnus, you will become a global citizen, equipped to make a significant impact in your professional field and beyond.

Padua: A City Overview (“A Student-centred Town“)
With a student population making up over 30% of the city, Padua is genuinely student-friendly. It is a lively, dynamic place, offering numerous events in art, music, theatre, cinema, and sports throughout the year.

Nestled in the Veneto Region, less than 40 km from Venice, Padua is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities with over 3,000 years of history. Here, you will fully immerse yourself in Italian art, culture, and lifestyle. The historical centre, with its picturesque squares, palaces, and museums, attracts thousands of visitors each year, blending rich history with vibrant, modern business life.

Padua's excellent transportation links make it easy to explore Italy and beyond. The city’s extensive cycling paths (over 170 km) and bike-sharing options, with special student discounts, provide a sustainable way to navigate the city.

Sports and Activities
Balancing academics with fitness is easy at the University Sports Centre (CUS). With two large facilities, you can engage in a variety of sports—whether you are an amateur or a competitive athlete. Plus, you will have the chance to represent the university in local and national championships!

Accommodation
We offer a variety of accommodation options in halls of residence, with different prices and services, including reserved spots for international students. Alternatively, the local real-estate market offers many opportunities for shared flats with fellow students.