Florence, Italy, is a unique city for a variety of reasons and spending time there will undoubtedly leave you with lifelong memories.
However, there is something even more significant about spending time here as a student, which allows you to immerse yourself in the city and experience Tuscan life. There are numerous possibilities for studying in Florence, including design institutes, cuisine schools and larger-name universities.
Here, we’ll walk you through some of the best universities in Florence Italy, and explain why studying in a Renaissance or Medieval city is an unforgettable experience.
Let’s hit the ground running
Universities in Florence, Italy
1. The Università di Firenze (University of Florence)
The Università di Firenze (University of Florence) is a major university system in Italy. From humanistic to scientific, an Erasmus program at this prestigious school is a life-changing event.
It is one of Italy’s largest and oldest universities, as well as a significant research center, with a diverse range of study programs in a variety of fields.
It boasts all the benefits of a large institution, including a choir, orchestra, theatre company and two sports facilities, as well as everything else you could want to do outside of the classroom.
2. New York University campus in Florence
The very gorgeous New York University campus in Florence places a heavy emphasis on the humanities and social sciences, with experts providing advice on anything from Italian studies (if fluency is your objective) to prelaw students capable of engaging in high-level political discourse.
Beyond the classroom, there’s a lot to learn because every street has something awe-inspiring and even a simple stroll to the supermarket takes you past centuries-old art and architecture, with the occasional contemporary street artwork to catch your eye.
For those who have completed their undergraduate studies and want to pursue postgraduate programs or post-doctoral teaching, the European University Institute in the hills of Fiesole is an excellent choice.
Those interested in furthering their studies in law, economics, politics and history will find the lovely settings of this university to be both inspiring and intellectually interesting.
3. The Polimoda International Institute of Design and Marketing
The Polimoda International Institute of Design and Marketing is an excellent alternative for anyone seeking a career in the fashion industry. Where better to learn style than Italy, where a simple stroll through the streets evokes Florentine elegance?
The school has close ties to the fashion sector, so your studies will allow you to take your first steps in the industry while also taking advantage of the great Florentine craftsmanship to be found in the various artisanal workshops, motivating you to take tradition and make it your own.
Reasons to Study Abroad in Florence, Italy
Firenze is the Italian name for Florence. The city was founded in the first century BC under the name Fiorentina, “the blooming,” at the foot of a hill that now houses the ancient Etruscan city of Fiesole.
FAQS
How big is Florence?
Florence is Tuscany’s most populated city, with over 380,000 people and a metropolitan area of more than 1,520,000. If a huge and bustling metropolitan city with an architectural and cultural past and a strong sense of fashion seem appealing, Florence could be the ideal study-abroad option for you.
How many universities and colleges are there in Italy?
Italy has over 90 universities, the bulk of which are government-supported. The higher education sector also includes several specialized postgraduate centers, polytechnics, and other academies.
Can I study in Florence, Italy, without knowing English?
If you wish to study in Florence, you must have Italian language abilities. As a result, any member of the CLIQ (Quality Certification of the Italian Language) may take a language test.
An Italian language test is not required for studies delivered in English, however, a valid English language certificate must be presented.
To obtain an English language certificate, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), four aspects of the language are assessed: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. For more information about IELTS or TOEFL.
Is Florence a good place to study in Italy?
Florence experiences scorching summers and cold, rainy winters. Studying in this city is ideal for people who enjoy extremes and wish to devote their time to history, culture, art, or fashion.
Stroll through the city and find beautiful works by the greatest masters of Florence’s art history, from Leonardo da Vinci to Michelangelo Buonarroti.
Safety is an important factor to consider when studying abroad. Florence currently has a score of 60.48 on the Numbeo Safety Index, putting it 184th out of 461 cities worldwide.
Florence is recognized as the ‘cradle of the Renaissance’ because of its monuments, churches, and buildings, as well as its rich architectural and creative heritage.
Fashion is a legitimate art form in Florence, and it is part of the city’s cultural legacy. The most prominent Florentine stylists’ stores and boutiques may be found here, including Ferragamo, Cavalli, Gucci, Prada, Enrico Coveri, Patrizia Pepe, and Emilio Pucci.
This huge metropolis is a popular study destination for both local and international students, offering something for everyone. Imagine how wonderful it would be to study in a city that celebrates history, art, and fashion.
Is Florence, Italy, an expensive place to live in?
The cost of living can be a significant issue in determining where to study. Aside from tuition, students should consider the local cost of living, which includes things like accommodation, food, and social activities.
According to the current Numbeo Cost of Living Index, Florence has a score of 64.94, placing it 216th out of 515 cities worldwide in terms of cost of living.
Conclusion
Florence is ideally located for touring the rest of Italy and Europe. There is also the benefit of these courses being taught in English, which means that your learning in the classroom will not be hampered by language barriers.
However, there will be plenty of opportunities to get to grips with the mellifluous and musical Italian language with Italian classes available, as well as the full immersion of being in an Italian, student-friendly city.
Florence’s relatively small size is also advantageous because you can truly feel a part of the community. Getting around the city is simple because most areas are walkable or bikeable and there are numerous public transportation options accessible. Take out your school textbook and flip over a few pages, letting centuries of history and art breathe around you.