Studying public health in Italy gives you access to strong European health systems and globally recognized degrees. You can study in English or Italian at both the bachelor's and master's levels, with tuition fees that are often lower than in other parts of Europe. This guide explains the steps, costs, and timelines to help you prepare your journey.
Choose your degree level and language
Public health education in Italy is structured to match the Bologna process. You can find programmes at different academic stages depending on your background.
- Bachelor's degrees last three years and usually require proficiency in Italian.
- Master's degrees last two years and offer more options taught entirely in English.
- Single-cycle degrees combine undergraduate and graduate studies into a five or six-year professional path, mostly in healthcare fields.
Check entry requirements and tests
Admission requirements depend on your chosen university and whether the programme has national restrictions. Some public health degrees require an entrance exam.
- Proof of previous education, such as a high school diploma for bachelor's or a bachelor's degree for master's programmes.
- Language certificates, such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught courses, or a B2 certificate in Italian if the course is in Italian.
- Admission tests, which may include university-specific exams or national tests for health sciences.
Understand tuition fees and living costs
Italy offers relatively affordable higher education, especially at public universities where fees are often calculated based on family income.
- Public university tuition typically ranges from 900 to 4,000 euros per year for both EU and non-EU students, depending on your financial documentation.
- Private universities usually charge higher fees, which vary widely by institution.
- Living costs range from 700 to 1,200 euros per month, depending on the city, rent, and lifestyle.
Follow the application timeline
Planning ahead is essential because international student procedures involve multiple administrative steps outside the university.
- Start researching programmes up to a year before the academic term begins.
- Submit pre-enrollment applications through the official Universitaly portal, typically between spring and summer.
- Apply for your study visa at the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country once your pre-enrollment is validated.
Common questions
Can I study public health in Italy without speaking Italian?
Yes. Several universities offer master's degrees in public health taught entirely in English, though learning basic Italian helps with daily life.
Do I need to pass an entrance exam?
Some programmes have open access, while others require specific entrance tests. Check the programme page on the university website for exact rules.
How do I apply for a student visa?
You apply through the Universitaly portal and your local Italian consulate after receiving an admission letter from a university.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and 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.