- The University of Milano-Bicocca is a relatively young but highly respected public university located in Milan, Italy. Established in 1998, the university has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative approach to education and research. The Medicine and Surgery program at Milano-Bicocca is offered entirely in English and is designed for international students who seek an excellent medical education with early clinical exposure in a modern academic setting. Bicocca’s commitment to research, practical learning, and global healthcare trends makes it an ideal choice for aspiring doctors.
- Program structure: The Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Milano-Bicocca is a six-year course structured to integrate foundational medical sciences with hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for a career in modern medicine.
- Years 1-3: Preclinical Studies: In the first three years, students focus on building a strong foundation in medical sciences, studying subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, histology, genetics, and pathology. These preclinical courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge required to understand the human body and disease processes. The university’s Monza Campus, located just outside Milan, is equipped with modern teaching and research facilities where lectures, labs, and small-group discussions take place.
- Years 4-6: Clinical Training: Starting in the fourth year, students begin their clinical training in various specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, neurology, and emergency medicine. Clinical rotations take place at the San Gerardo Hospital in Monza, a leading teaching hospital affiliated with the university. During these rotations, students gain real-world experience in diagnosing and treating patients, working under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.
- Admission
- Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Milano-Bicocca is determined by the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), which assesses knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Both EU and non-EU students are required to take the IMAT, and the exam is the primary criterion for admission to the program. Given the program’s competitive nature, high IMAT scores are essential for securing a spot.
- Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Milano-Bicocca is determined by the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), which assesses knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Both EU and non-EU students are required to take the IMAT, and the exam is the primary criterion for admission to the program. Given the program’s competitive nature, high IMAT scores are essential for securing a spot.
- Learning Environment and Facilities
The University of Milano-Bicocca offers a modern and supportive learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on research and innovation in medical education.- Libraries: The university’s Medical Library is a valuable resource for students, providing access to a vast collection of textbooks, medical journals, and online databases. These resources are essential for both study and research, and the library offers dedicated study spaces for students to work individually or in groups.
- Laboratories: During the preclinical years, students engage in lab-based practical sessions in areas such as biochemistry, molecular biology, and microbiology. These labs are equipped with the latest technology, giving students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on setting and gain experience in conducting scientific experiments.
- Simulation Centers: Before starting their clinical rotations, students practice medical procedures and patient care in the university’s simulation centers. These centers provide a safe and controlled environment where students can develop their clinical skills, preparing them for real-world interactions with patients in their clinical years.
- Libraries: The university’s Medical Library is a valuable resource for students, providing access to a vast collection of textbooks, medical journals, and online databases. These resources are essential for both study and research, and the library offers dedicated study spaces for students to work individually or in groups.
- Language Proficiency and Italian Language Support
- Although the Medicine and Surgery program is taught in English, students are required to achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by the time they start their clinical rotations in the third year. This is crucial for effective communication with patients and medical staff during their hands-on training in hospitals. The university offers free Italian language courses during the first two years to help international students meet this requirement.
- Although the Medicine and Surgery program is taught in English, students are required to achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by the time they start their clinical rotations in the third year. This is crucial for effective communication with patients and medical staff during their hands-on training in hospitals. The university offers free Italian language courses during the first two years to help international students meet this requirement.
- Tuition Fees
- Tuition fees at the University of Milano-Bicocca are income-based and vary according to the student’s financial situation. Annual fees generally range from €1,500 to €4,000, depending on family income. Additionally, the university offers scholarships and financial aid options for both EU and non-EU students, making the program accessible to a diverse range of students.
- Tuition fees at the University of Milano-Bicocca are income-based and vary according to the student’s financial situation. Annual fees generally range from €1,500 to €4,000, depending on family income. Additionally, the university offers scholarships and financial aid options for both EU and non-EU students, making the program accessible to a diverse range of students.
- Clinical Training and Practical Experience
- Students at the University of Bologna benefit from early exposure to clinical practice. Starting in the third year, they begin rotations in the university’s affiliated hospitals, working in fields such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, and general surgery. The university’s close collaboration with Policlinico Sant’Orsola-Malpighi ensures that students receive hands-on experience in a leading medical facility.
- Students at the University of Bologna benefit from early exposure to clinical practice. Starting in the third year, they begin rotations in the university’s affiliated hospitals, working in fields such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, and general surgery. The university’s close collaboration with Policlinico Sant’Orsola-Malpighi ensures that students receive hands-on experience in a leading medical facility.
- Exam and graduation
- Exams: Throughout the course, students are assessed through a combination of written, oral, and practical exams. The exams are designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that students are well-prepared for clinical practice.
- Thesis and Graduation: In their final year, students must complete a thesis on a chosen medical or dental topic. The thesis involves original research or an in-depth study of a clinical case, and students must defend their findings before a panel of professors. Students are awarded a degree in Medicine upon successfully defending their thesis and passing all required exams.
- Graduates of the Medicine and Dentistry program at the University of Bologna are well-prepared to pursue careers in Italy, Europe, or internationally. After completing the program and defending their thesis, students must pass the Italian state exam to practice medicine or dentistry in Italy. The degree is recognized throughout the European Union and many other countries, allowing graduates to apply for residency programs or further specialization.
- Exams: Throughout the course, students are assessed through a combination of written, oral, and practical exams. The exams are designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that students are well-prepared for clinical practice.
- Student life in Bologna
- Bologna offers a unique blend of history, culture, and student life, making it one of Italy’s most vibrant academic cities. As a university town, Bologna is home to a large student population, and its lively atmosphere offers plenty of opportunities for socializing and cultural activities. From exploring medieval architecture to enjoying Italy’s world-famous cuisine, students at the University of Bologna experience an enriching life both inside and outside the classroom.
- The university itself encourages a strong sense of community with various student organizations, sports teams, and cultural events. Student support services are also available to assist international students with everything from accommodation to visa support.
- Bologna offers a unique blend of history, culture, and student life, making it one of Italy’s most vibrant academic cities. As a university town, Bologna is home to a large student population, and its lively atmosphere offers plenty of opportunities for socializing and cultural activities. From exploring medieval architecture to enjoying Italy’s world-famous cuisine, students at the University of Bologna experience an enriching life both inside and outside the classroom.
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.