The University of Parma, based in Italy, dates back to 962 when Emperor Ottonian I gave a document to the Bishop of Parma which was the foundation for an educational institution that would last centuries later.
Now, the university is spread across different locations. The largest 77 hectare campus, considered as a unique example in Italy, features nine of the 18 Departments, as well as study areas, libraries, computer and IT laboratories, canteens and sport facilities.
Students can choose between courses which include: arts and humanities, economics, engineering and architecture, and medicine and surgery.
The other university campus is at the heart of the city. The university's central building houses the rector's office, administrative offices and the law department. The medical school is also located in the heart of the city, located in the hospital, while economics and the political sciences are next to the plush Parco Ducale (nature park).
The arts, philosophy and psychology have their campuses in the old city centre, while veterinary medicine is located in the immediate north-western outskirts of the city.
Parma is famous for its delicious and rich food – namely prosciutto and cheese – it’s beautiful architecture, music and surrounding countryside.
Parma offers students a vast amount to do with cultural events and recreational activities occurring all year round. The town is abound with theatres, cinemas, and museums, the Paganini Auditorium, art exhibitions and galleries, as well as various festivals including a jazz and an international theatre festival.
The university has good relations with foreign universities, with a lively exchange of students in terms of community programmes, including many available scholarships.
The campus has many sports activities offering a swimming pool, athletics tracks, tennis courts, football pitches, a golf yard, basketball courts, and rugby pitches.
Notable alumni include Corrado Clini, an Italian politician and former Italian minister of environment, Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara, an ecologist and conservationist, and Giancarlo Rastelli, a pioneering cardiac surgeon.
