If you want to study environmental science in Italy, you can usually choose between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree. Italy has many public universities, some private options, and a growing number of English-taught programmes, especially at master's level.
The exact rules change by university and programme. The safest place to check is the university's admissions page, plus the Italian visa and immigration authority if you need a visa.
What you can study
Environmental science can appear under different names in Italy, such as environmental sciences, environmental and land management, ecology, sustainability, climate, or environmental engineering. The content can be broad or more technical, so always read the course modules.
- Bachelor's degree - usually 3 years. This is the first university level after secondary school.
- Master's degree - usually 2 years. This is for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Single courses or exchange study - some universities also accept visiting students for a semester or one year.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor's degree, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your home country. Some programmes ask for specific school subjects, often biology, chemistry, maths, physics, or geography.
For a master's degree, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, such as environmental science, biology, chemistry, geography, earth sciences, forestry, agriculture, or engineering. Some programmes accept related subjects only, and some may ask for a minimum number of credits in key areas.
Common documents are:
- Passport or national ID
- School or university diploma
- Transcript of records
- CV
- Motivation letter
- English language proof, if required
- Course descriptions or syllabus, for some master's applications
If your documents are not in Italian or English, you may need certified translations. Some universities also ask for legalisation or apostille. Check the programme page carefully.
English-taught options and language needs
You can find some environmental science programmes in English, especially at master's level. Bachelor's degrees in English exist too, but they are less common. Many universities offer more options in Italian.
If the programme is in English, you may still need to show language proof, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. The required level is set by each university. Some programmes waive this if your previous education was fully in English, but not all do.
If the programme is in Italian, you usually need proof of Italian language ability, often around B2 level, but the exact rule depends on the university. Even if your course is in English, knowing some Italian helps with daily life, housing, and part-time work.
Tuition and other costs
Tuition in Italy depends on the university type, your nationality, and your family income. Public universities often use income-based fees, which means the amount can change a lot from one student to another.
As a rough guide, many public universities charge from a few hundred euros per year to a few thousand euros per year. Private universities are usually more expensive and can cost several thousand euros per year or more. Some programmes also have regional taxes or service fees.
For EU and non-EU students, the basic tuition structure can be similar at public universities, but non-EU students may have different fee rules, scholarship access, or document checks. Always confirm on the programme page and the university's fee page.
Living costs depend on the city. A smaller city is usually cheaper than Milan, Rome, Bologna, or other large study centres. Typical monthly costs include:
- Room in shared housing: often the largest cost
- Food and groceries
- Local transport
- Books and study materials
- Phone and personal costs
Many students should plan for roughly 700 to 1,200 euros per month, and sometimes more in bigger cities. This is only a general range, not a guarantee. Check the university's student services page for local housing and cost advice.
Application timeline and steps
Start early. For many universities, the process begins several months before the course starts, and some international applicants need extra time for visas and document checks.
- Choose the programme and check the entry requirements.
- Prepare your diploma, transcript, language proof, CV, and motivation letter.
- Apply through the university portal or the national platform if the university uses one.
- If you are a non-EU student, check visa and pre-enrolment steps with the Italian embassy or consulate in your country and the official immigration guidance.
- After admission, arrange housing, insurance, and travel.
Some universities have fixed deadlines. Others use rolling admissions or several rounds. Never rely on social media posts. Use the official programme page and the university admissions office.
How to choose a good programme
Before you apply, compare more than the course title. Environmental science can mean different things at different universities.
- Focus - climate, ecology, pollution, sustainability, policy, conservation, or lab work
- Teaching language - English, Italian, or both
- Internships - fieldwork, labs, or placements with companies or public bodies
- Location - city size, transport, and living costs
- Student support - housing, language help, and visa guidance
It also helps to check whether the degree is mainly scientific, policy-based, or engineering-based. That affects the subjects you study and the jobs or master's options you may have later.
Common questions
Can I study environmental science in Italy without speaking Italian?
Yes, sometimes. Some universities offer English-taught programmes, especially at master's level. Still, many bachelor's degrees are in Italian, so check the language of instruction on the official programme page.
Do I need high grades to apply?
Usually you need to meet the minimum academic entry rules, but universities can be selective. Good grades help, especially for popular programmes and scholarships. The exact standard depends on the university.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students can work part-time, but visa and residence rules matter. Check the Italian immigration authority and your university guidance before you plan work hours.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so universities can see your background clearly.
Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.