- The University of Naples Federico II is one of Italy’s most prestigious universities, established in 1224, and one of the oldest universities in the world. The university offers a highly regarded Medicine and Surgery program taught in English, specifically designed for international students seeking a comprehensive education in the medical sciences. The program combines tradition and innovation, preparing future doctors to meet the demands of the global healthcare sector.
- Program structure
The Medicine and Surgery program at Federico II University spans six years and provides a thorough and well-rounded medical education, integrating both theoretical knowledge and clinical practice:- Years 1-3: Preclinical Studies: During the first three years, students focus on acquiring a deep understanding of the foundational medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, histology, genetics, and pathology. Lectures are held at the university’s main medical campus, and students engage in laboratory sessions that help them apply theoretical concepts. The aim is to build a strong base in medical science before moving on to clinical practice in later years.
- Years 4-6: Clinical Training: In the final three years, the focus shifts to hands-on clinical experience. Students begin rotating through various departments such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency medicine. These rotations take place at Federico II University Hospital, a leading teaching hospital in Naples, where students work under the supervision of experienced physicians. This practical experience helps students transition from theoretical learning to real-world medical practice, ensuring they are fully prepared for their future medical careers.
- Years 1-3: Preclinical Studies: During the first three years, students focus on acquiring a deep understanding of the foundational medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, histology, genetics, and pathology. Lectures are held at the university’s main medical campus, and students engage in laboratory sessions that help them apply theoretical concepts. The aim is to build a strong base in medical science before moving on to clinical practice in later years.
- Admissions
- Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program at Federico II University is based on the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test). The IMAT assesses students’ abilities in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Both EU and non-EU students are required to take the exam, and their rankings on the IMAT determine their eligibility for admission. Federico II is highly competitive, and applicants need strong IMAT scores to secure a place in this program.
- Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program at Federico II University is based on the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test). The IMAT assesses students’ abilities in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Both EU and non-EU students are required to take the exam, and their rankings on the IMAT determine their eligibility for admission. Federico II is highly competitive, and applicants need strong IMAT scores to secure a place in this program.
- Learning Environment and Facilities
- Federico II University provides students with an excellent learning environment, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources that ensure students receive a top-tier education.
- Libraries: Students have access to the university’s extensive library system, including the Medical Library, which houses a vast collection of textbooks, scientific journals, and online databases. These libraries offer a quiet and resourceful environment for studying, research, and collaboration among students.
- Laboratories: Practical learning is an essential part of the program, and students participate in lab-based sessions starting from their first year. The university’s modern laboratories are equipped with the latest technology for conducting experiments in molecular biology, biochemistry, histology, and microbiology. This hands-on experience is key to reinforcing the knowledge students gain in the classroom.
- Simulation Centers: Before students begin clinical rotations, they practice medical procedures and patient care in the university’s simulation centers, where they gain valuable experience in a controlled and risk-free environment. These simulation labs are equipped with medical models and advanced simulation technology that mimics real-life medical situations.
- Federico II University provides students with an excellent learning environment, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources that ensure students receive a top-tier education.
- Language Proficiency and Italian Language Support
- Although the program is taught entirely in English, students must achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by the time they begin their clinical rotations in the third year. This is crucial for effective communication with patients and healthcare professionals during clinical practice. Federico II University offers free Italian language courses during the first two years of the program to help international students meet the required language proficiency.
- Although the program is taught entirely in English, students must achieve B2-level proficiency in Italian by the time they begin their clinical rotations in the third year. This is crucial for effective communication with patients and healthcare professionals during clinical practice. Federico II University offers free Italian language courses during the first two years of the program to help international students meet the required language proficiency.
- Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
- Tuition fees at Federico II University are calculated based on a sliding scale according to the student’s financial situation. Annual fees typically range from €1,000 to €4,000, depending on the family’s income level. Additionally, Federico II offers scholarships and financial aid options for both EU and non-EU students, making the program more accessible to a wider range of students.
- Tuition fees at Federico II University are calculated based on a sliding scale according to the student’s financial situation. Annual fees typically range from €1,000 to €4,000, depending on the family’s income level. Additionally, Federico II offers scholarships and financial aid options for both EU and non-EU students, making the program more accessible to a wider range of students.
- Clinical Training and Practical Experience
- Federico II University places a strong emphasis on clinical training, providing students with extensive hands-on experience during their final three years. Clinical rotations take place at Federico II University Hospital, a large and well-respected teaching hospital in Naples. Students rotate through various departments, gaining practical experience in specialties such as cardiology, general surgery, pediatrics, oncology, and neurology.
- Under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals, students engage in patient care, medical diagnosis, and treatment procedures. This early and consistent exposure to real patients is essential in preparing students for a successful medical career, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
- Federico II University places a strong emphasis on clinical training, providing students with extensive hands-on experience during their final three years. Clinical rotations take place at Federico II University Hospital, a large and well-respected teaching hospital in Naples. Students rotate through various departments, gaining practical experience in specialties such as cardiology, general surgery, pediatrics, oncology, and neurology.
- Exams and Graduation
- Exams: Students are assessed through a combination of written, oral, and practical exams throughout the program. These exams evaluate both their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of medical practice.
- Thesis and Graduation: In the final year, students are required to complete and defend a medical thesis. The thesis can be based on original research or a clinical case study. Students must present and defend their thesis before a panel of professors, which is a key requirement for graduation. Upon successful defense of the thesis and completion of all coursework, students are awarded their MD degree and can apply for residency programs or further specialization.
- Graduates of the Medicine and Surgery program at Federico II University are well-prepared for careers in Italy and abroad. The degree is recognized across the European Union and internationally, allowing graduates to apply for residency programs or further specialization in various medical fields.
- Upon graduation, students must pass the Italian state exam to practice medicine in Italy. However, the global recognition of the Federico II medical degree provides graduates with opportunities to work in many countries worldwide, making it a flexible option for international students.
- Exams: Students are assessed through a combination of written, oral, and practical exams throughout the program. These exams evaluate both their theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of medical practice.
- Student Life in Naples
- Naples is a vibrant and historic city that offers an exciting backdrop to student life. Known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Naples provides students with a unique experience that blends academic life with cultural exploration.
- The University of Naples Federico II offers a range of extracurricular activities and student organizations that foster a strong sense of community among students. International students, in particular, can find support through the university’s international student office, which provides assistance with accommodation, visas, and general student life.
- Students also benefit from Naples’ central location in southern Italy, which makes it easy to explore other parts of the country during weekends or holiday breaks.
- Naples is a vibrant and historic city that offers an exciting backdrop to student life. Known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Naples provides students with a unique experience that blends academic life with cultural exploration.
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.