Università di Bologna


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Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest established university in the world.
Location: Bologna, Italy
Language of Instruction: EnglishItalian
Program Type: Semester or Academic Year
Open to non-KU Students: No
Fulfills KU Core 4.2: No
Fulfills KU Core 5: No

  • Take undergraduate courses in either English or Italian.
  • Intern abroad while attending the university in Bologna. 
  • Classes offered in English in 7 different departments. 

Students have the opportunity to take classes in either English or Italian at this word renowned university in Bologna, Italy. The Università di Bologna offers a wide variety of course options over 11 different schools and 33 different departments. Four undergraduate departments are instructed in English, and options increase with the graduate level. 

The Università di Bologna is the oldest established university in the world. This university is an alma mater to some of the world's most notable people, such as Nicolaus Copernicus.

The Università di Bologna is situated in the largest city in the Emilia-Romagna region located in northern Italy. Bologna is ranked seventh in Italian cities based on population size with its metropolitan area holding over one million people. This Italian city is one of the most important cultural centers in the world, rich with unique architectural and artistic history. In addition, Bologna has some of the most distinguished economic and political institutions while also housing prestigious trade fair districts. 

Located in northern Italy, Bologna is at the foot of the Apennine Mountains where the Reno and Savena rivers meet. Because of its location, Bologna has a relatively humid subtropical climate due to its location near the sea. Winters are cold, and summers are hot. 

All departments at the University of Bologna are offered to exchange students. There are some restrictions in the Medicine department. Classes are either taught in English or Italian. 

Here is a list of majors that instruct in English on the bachelor's level:

  • Business and Economics
  • Economics and Finance
  • Economics of Tourism
  • Statistical Sciences

There are quite a few disciplines at the university that teach graduate courses in English, and graduate areas are open to exchange programs. In addition, it is possible in certain situations for undergraduate students to take graduate level courses.

For more information, visit the websites below.

General University Website

International Office Website

Courses Taught in English

The housing application for this university is done through a separate application which can be completed at Accommodation and halls of residence in Bologna — University of Bologna (unibo.it)

If accepted through the housing application, students can live in single or double rooms in the residence halls provided. Students may also use private accommodations. 

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Students applying to this program must have a 2.5 GPA in order to be eligible for placement. In addition, students must have completed at least one semester at KU before the start date of the program.

For more information about costs and deadlines, please contact Jenna Hunter-Skidmore at jmhunter@ku.edu or visit the Study Abroad Info Center in 105 Lippincott for Walk-In Advising.