- The University of Cagliari, located in the capital city of Sardinia, Italy, is one of the country’s leading public universities, with a strong history dating back to its founding in 1620. Known for its academic rigor and commitment to research, the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Cagliari is taught in English and is designed to prepare students for successful careers in global healthcare. Combining theoretical learning with hands-on clinical experience, the program equips students with the skills needed to excel in the medical field.
- Program structure
The Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Cagliari is a six-year program, structured to ensure a comprehensive medical education by integrating both preclinical studies and clinical training.- Years 1-3: Preclinical Studies: During the first three years, students focus on building a strong foundation in the basic medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology, pharmacology, and pathology. This phase involves lectures, seminars, and laboratory work to ensure students gain a deep understanding of how the human body functions in health and disease. Additionally, the curriculum includes problem-based learning (PBL), where students tackle clinical case studies to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills early on.
- Years 4-6: Clinical Training: In the final three years, the program shifts focus to clinical practice. Students begin rotations at the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari, the university’s teaching hospital, and other affiliated medical centers. Here, students gain practical experience across various specialties, such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, neurology, and emergency medicine. These rotations provide essential hands-on training under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals.
- Admission
- Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Cagliari is based on the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), which assesses students’ knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Both EU and non-EU applicants must take the IMAT, and admission is highly competitive. Strong performance on the exam is essential for securing a place in the program.
- Learning Environment and Facilities
The University of Cagliari offers a dynamic and supportive learning environment, with access to modern facilities that support both academic study and clinical practice.- Libraries: The university’s Medical Library provides access to an extensive collection of textbooks, scientific journals, and digital resources that are essential for research and studying. The library also offers quiet study spaces for students to focus on their coursework and prepare for exams.
- Laboratories – Preclinical studies are reinforced by practical laboratory work, where students conduct experiments and hands-on exercises in fields such as biochemistry, molecular biology, histology, and pharmacology. These sessions are crucial for developing practical skills that complement theoretical knowledge.
- Simulation Centers: Before students begin interacting with real patients, they practice their clinical skills in the university’s simulation centers, which mimic real hospital environments. These simulation labs allow students to develop and refine their procedural and patient care skills in a safe, controlled setting.
- Libraries: The university’s Medical Library provides access to an extensive collection of textbooks, scientific journals, and digital resources that are essential for research and studying. The library also offers quiet study spaces for students to focus on their coursework and prepare for exams.
- Language Proficiency and Italian Language Support
- Although the Medicine and Surgery program is taught entirely in English, students are required to achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by their third year. This is necessary for effective communication with patients and healthcare staff during clinical rotations. The University of Cagliari provides Italian language courses throughout the first two years, helping international students develop the language skills they need to succeed in the clinical phase of the program.
- Although the Medicine and Surgery program is taught entirely in English, students are required to achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by their third year. This is necessary for effective communication with patients and healthcare staff during clinical rotations. The University of Cagliari provides Italian language courses throughout the first two years, helping international students develop the language skills they need to succeed in the clinical phase of the program.
- Tuition Fees
- Tuition fees at the University of Cagliari are calculated based on the student’s family income, making the program accessible to students from different financial backgrounds. The annual fees typically range from €1,000 to €3,000, depending on the student’s financial situation. Additionally, the university offers scholarships and financial aid to support both EU and non-EU students, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying medicine.
- Tuition fees at the University of Cagliari are calculated based on the student’s family income, making the program accessible to students from different financial backgrounds. The annual fees typically range from €1,000 to €3,000, depending on the student’s financial situation. Additionally, the university offers scholarships and financial aid to support both EU and non-EU students, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying medicine.
- Clinical Training and Practical Experience
- Clinical training is a core component of the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Cagliari. From the fourth year onward, students begin clinical rotations at the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Cagliari and other affiliated hospitals. These rotations cover a wide range of medical specialties, including cardiology, general surgery, oncology, neurology, and pediatrics.
- During their rotations, students work under the supervision of experienced physicians and healthcare professionals, gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients. This practical training is essential for preparing students for the complexities of real-world medical practice, ensuring they graduate with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in healthcare settings.
- Exams and Graduation
- Exams: Throughout the six-year program, students are assessed through a series of written, oral, and practical exams. These assessments ensure that students are mastering the material and can apply their knowledge in clinical settings. Practical exams during clinical rotations test students’ ability to interact with patients and perform medical procedures.
- Thesis and Graduation: In their final year, students must complete a medical thesis, which typically involves original research or an in-depth analysis of a clinical case. The thesis is defended in front of a panel of professors, and successful completion of the thesis is required for graduation. Upon passing all exams and defending their thesis, students are awarded the MD degree, qualifying them to apply for residency programs or further specialization in various medical fields.
- Graduates of the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Cagliari are well-prepared for careers in Italy, across Europe, and internationally. The MD degree awarded by the university is recognized throughout the European Union, allowing graduates to apply for residency programs or further specialization in various countries.
- After graduation, students must pass the Italian state exam to practice medicine in Italy. However, the degree’s international recognition also provides opportunities for graduates to pursue medical careers in other countries, giving them the flexibility to work in various healthcare systems around the world.
- Exams: Throughout the six-year program, students are assessed through a series of written, oral, and practical exams. These assessments ensure that students are mastering the material and can apply their knowledge in clinical settings. Practical exams during clinical rotations test students’ ability to interact with patients and perform medical procedures.
- Student life in Cagliari
- Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is a beautiful coastal city known for its rich history, Mediterranean climate, and welcoming atmosphere. The city offers students a vibrant cultural and social scene, with its historic architecture, picturesque beaches, and lively cafes and restaurants. Cagliari’s location on the island of Sardinia also provides students with opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and sailing.
- The University of Cagliari fosters a strong sense of community among its students, with numerous opportunities for extracurricular involvement, including student organizations, sports clubs, and cultural activities. The university also offers support services for international students, helping them adjust to life in Italy, find accommodation, and navigate administrative tasks such as visas and residency permits.
- Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, is a beautiful coastal city known for its rich history, Mediterranean climate, and welcoming atmosphere. The city offers students a vibrant cultural and social scene, with its historic architecture, picturesque beaches, and lively cafes and restaurants. Cagliari’s location on the island of Sardinia also provides students with opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and sailing.
Medical Italian Universities
These schools are all highly selective and have rigorous admissions requirements. However, they also provide their students with an exceptional education and prepare them for successful careers in medicine.