Using the principles of science and mathematics, engineering has led us to some invaluable technological breakthroughs in the contemporary era. Thus, it is a popular STEM branch for students with a natural scientific curiosity. Having birthed great empirical minds such as Alessandro Volta and Galileo Galilei, Italy is a sought-after study-abroad destination for such candidates. This is clearly demonstrated by engineering universities in Italy that are highly focused on science, research, and creativity.
As per data from the Italian Ministry of Education, the country currently has 61 government-funded, 30 private, and 11 public research universities. Together, they offer 339 courses in English for international students. In addition to this, Italy boasts a curriculum with low tuition fees, numerous scholarships for international students, and a diverse, inclusive global environment. Moreover, the strategic location of the nation in the heart of Europe provides easy access to neighboring countries, making the student experience in Italy all the more enriching.
According to official statistics, engineering courses see the 2nd highest numbers of student enrollment in Italian universities. In this blog, we shall delve into the best engineering universities in Italy and explore their course options, fee structure, duration, and more.
Suggested Read: Cost of Living in Italy for International Students
Overview of Best Engineering Universities in Italy
| Best engineering universities in Italy | Polytechnic University of Milan, Polytechnic University of Turin, University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Padua, University of Naples – Federico II, University of Pisa, University of Trento, the University of Rome Tor Vergata, University of Florence |
| Programs offered | Bachelor’s and master’s |
| Duration | Bachelor’s (3 years) and master’s (2 years) |
| Annual fees in EUR | 1,000 to 4,000 EUR |
Why Study at Engineering Universities in Italy?
Career Opportunities: Italy’s tech industry is expanding rapidly, with cities like Milan, Rome, and Turin at the forefront of this growth. Completing an engineering degree in Italy is an excellent way to take advantage of the opportunities available in the technology sector across all of Europe. Many Italian institutions also have strong ties to industry giants and offer students internships, job placement assistance, and other career development opportunities.
Diverse International Student Community: Italy has long been a popular destination for international students, offering a unique and diverse learning experience. In 2023, there were more than 32,000 international students enrolled in Italian universities, with students coming from all over the world. This stands as a testament to the appeal of studying in Italy. Not only do international students benefit from the opportunity to learn in a culturally varied environment, but also gain valuable insight into Italian culture.
Universities with International Accreditation: One of the unique attributes of a degree from an Italian engineering institution involves combining theoretical knowledge with real-world case studies and practical exposure. This approach gives students a deeper understanding of the subject and encourages them to think outside the box. Italy also houses several top-tier engineering institutions that chart high on international ranking lists released by QS and THE Rankings.
Affordable Education: Italy is an attractive destination for international students who are looking for quality education on a budget. Additionally, there are a number of scholarships and grants available exclusively for international students, which can help offset the cost of their education.
Best Engineering Universities In Italy
Italian universities perform well under international accreditation standards. Here, we will compare the best engineering colleges in Italy on the basis of the 2023 QS Subject Rankings in Engineering and Technology.
| QS Subject Ranking 2023 | Name of the University |
| 18 | Polytechnic University of Milan |
| 45 | Polytechnic University of Turin |
| 108 | University of Bologna |
| 108 | Sapienza University of Rome |
| 180 | University of Padua |
| 198 | University of Naples – Federico II |
| 237 | University of Pisa |
| 275 | University of Trento |
| 335 | University of Rome Tor Vergata |
| 401-450 | University of Florence |
Please Note: Only universities offering English-taught courses in Engineering have been mentioned below.
Polytechnic University of Milan
Established in 1863, Politecnico di Milano is the largest technical university in Milan. The university is also known for its courses in engineering, architecture, and design, all of which are highly coveted in the field of academia.
The engineering curriculum at the university facilitates cutting-edge research, with a total of 48,850 publications under its belt since 2012. The School of Management here has earned the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation, making the Polytechnic University of Milan one of the best business schools in Italy.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Laurea in Civil Engineering | Bachelor’s | 3 years | € 3,726 annually for non-EU international students |
| Agricultural Engineering
Aeronautical Engineering Automation And Control Engineering Biomedical Engineering Building And Architectural Engineering Chemical Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Science And Engineering Electrical Engineering Electronics Engineering Nuclear Engineering Food Engineering Mechanical Engineering Space Engineering Telecommunication Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | € 3,891.59 annually for non-EU international students |
Polytechnic University of Turin
The Polytechnic University of Turin is the oldest public technical university in Italy and has been a leading educational institution since its founding in 1859. It has a strong international presence and currently with more than 35,000 students representing different nations. The university has also made strides in the area of international mobility, with 310 international agreements to its name. Students can take advantage of these to study abroad at a foreign university, attend seminars, participate in international workshops, and more.
The engineering department at the university is world-renowned, with the mechanical engineering program ranking 26th in the world. As a result, many students also enroll to study masters in mechanical engineering in Italy from the Polytechnic University of Turin.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Civil And Environmental Engineering
Electronic And Communications Engineering Automotive Engineering Computer Engineering Mechanical Engineering |
Bachelor’s | 3 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. International students may be required to pay a maximum fee of € 2,601 annually |
| Agritech Engineering
Automotive Engineering Civil Engineering Communications Engineering Data Science And Engineering Georesources And Geoenergy Engineering Quantum Engineering Mechatronic Engineering Mechanical Engineering Computer Engineering Energy And Nuclear Engineering Electronic Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. International students may be required to pay a maximum fee of € 2,601 annually |
University of Bologna
The international reputation of the University of Bologna is reflected in its global outreach initiatives, exchange programs, and research partnerships. Established in 1088, it is recognized as the first institution to award degrees in higher education.
As of now, the University of Bologna provides over a hundred programs across a broad spectrum of fields. Offering multiple specializations, it aims to equip aspiring engineers with an adequate repository of professional skills. It also offers one of the top masters in architecture programs in Italy, taught entirely in English.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Building Construction Engineering | Bachelor’s | 3 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. They fall in the range of € 500- 1,200 annually. |
| Advanced Automotive Engineering
Aerospace Engineering Automation Engineering Biomedical Engineering Chemical and Process Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Science and Engineering Electrical Energy Engineering Environmental Engineering Mechanical Engineering Offshore Engineering Telecommunications Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. They fall in the range of € 600- 1,400 annually. |
Sapienza University of Rome
The Sapienza University of Rome is a renowned institution that stands as a pillar of academic excellence, boasting a history that stretches back to 1303. It has since grown to become the largest university in Rome, with an impressive student population of over 10,400 international students.
With 9 Nobel Prize winners among its faculty and alumni, Sapienza University is truly considered one of the best for engineering in Italy. Holistic development is encouraged, with the college undertaking several student activity drives. Personal development as a part of career growth is highlighted as the key objective.
It is also worth noting that the university is located in one of the top 7 student cities in Italy. Aside from the classroom, Rome offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere with several cultural and recreational opportunities.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| BSc Sustainable Building Engineering | Bachelor’s | 3 years | The annual tuition fee for all
bachelors and masters programs are € 1,000 for international students. |
| MSc Chemical Engineering
MSc Control Engineering MSc Electrical Engineering MSc Electronics Engineering MSc Energy Engineering MSc Engineering in Computer Science MSc Mechanical Engineering MSc Nanotechnology Engineering MSc Space and Astronautical Engineering MSc Transport Systems Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | The annual tuition fee for all
bachelors and masters programs are € 1,000 for international students. |
University of Padua
The University of Padua is a prestigious university located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, in the city of Padua. It is known for its long-standing faculty experience and rich student culture. The university is also renowned for its reputation as one of the top medical universities in Italy.
A Bachelor’s degree in Information Engineering is available in English for foreign applicants here. This course offers a comprehensive training period that covers the physical and mathematical fundamentals required for the program. The educational objectives are based on a multidisciplinary and methodological approach, which allows students to hone their skills in information and communication technologies with a strong mathematical foundation.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Information Engineering | Bachelor’s | 3 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. They fall in the range of € 1,003- 2,626 annually. |
| Chemical and Processes Engineering
Computer Engineering Control Systems Engineering Electronic Engineering
Energy Engineering Environmental Engineering Management Engineering Materials Engineering Mathematical Engineering Water and Geological Risk Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | Tuition fees for international students vary as per their nationality. They fall in the range of € 1,003- 2,626 annually. |
University of Pisa
One of the top-ranking, public universities in Italy, the University of Pisa has an active international program that includes agreements of mutual understanding with more than 100 universities worldwide.
The University strives to expand upon its internationalization which is the driving factor behind the setting up of courses taught entirely in English. Currently, 16 master’s degree programs and an MBA is taught exclusively in English on campus. Engineering programs here offer a perfect blend of academic excellence, industry relevance, and cultural enrichment.
| Program Name | Program Type | Duration | Tuition Fees for International Students |
| Master in Aerospace Engineering
Master in Bionics Engineering Master in Computer Engineering Master in Nuclear Engineering |
Master’s | 2 years | The annual tuition fee for international students is € 2,400. |
Conclusion
Engineering is a reputed course with several real-world applications in the current economy. Graduates of this profession are highly sought after due to their ability to solve complex problems and find innovative solutions. With an abundance of job opportunities available, Italy is a great place to pursue engineering.
At the top engineering colleges of this Mediterranean country, students are exposed to independent research through workshops, seminars, and advanced lab technology. Plus, they are also offered government scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and financial aid based on the ISEE index to study in Italy. Contact us at Gyanberry to enroll in any university of your choice and enjoy a hassle-free, seamless admissions process.