How many universities are there in Rome? A complete guide to the capital’s universities

Rome has long been recognised as one of Europe’s leading university cities. The Italian capital boasts a distinguished academic heritage that blends research and innovation, attracting thousands of students from around the world each year.

Its renowned public universities, with their rich history and prestige, sit alongside private institutions, offering a wide range of programmes from the humanities to cutting-edge sciences. The city’s dense network of research institutes, teaching hospitals and partnerships with international organisations further cements Rome’s status as a centre of academic excellence.

How many universities are there in Rome?

Rome is home to around 46 higher education institutions, including state universities, private and online universities, pontifical institutions, and academies or colleges with university status (such as those specialising in art, design, and music).

The four state universities (Sapienza, Tor Vergata, Roma Tre, and Foro Italico) form the backbone of the city’s public higher education system, playing a key role in both teaching and research. Alongside them, there are roughly ten private and online universities offering a wide range of study programmes.

A further contribution comes from over twenty pontifical institutions and specialised academies with university status. Although they do not always fit the strict definition of a university, they significantly enrich the city’s academic landscape.

Below is a short overview of some of the best-known universities in the Eternal City.

Sapienza University of Rome

Founded in 1303, Sapienza University of Rome is the oldest university in the Italian capital and the largest in Europe by student population, with more than 122,000 enrolled. Its academic offering is among the most comprehensive in Europe, comprising around 300 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, over 60 of which are taught in English, more than 200 master’s programmes and nearly 100 doctoral courses.

The range of disciplines is remarkably broad, spanning economics and management (with courses such as Economics and Finance and Business Studies) to engineering and ICT, which features programmes in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.

The university also has a strong focus on architecture and design, offering degrees in landscape architecture and construction project management, as well as a wide selection in the humanities and social sciences, including modern literature, philosophy, and film and media studies. In the life and health sciences, Sapienza stands out with courses such as biology, biotechnology, and dentistry.

University of Roma Tre

Founded in 1992, Roma Tre is the youngest public university in the capital. In just a few decades, it has established itself as a centre of excellence for research and teaching, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinarity and innovation. Its campuses, mainly located in the Ostiense district, stand out for their modern architecture and spaces designed to encourage learning and interaction between students and lecturers. Thanks to its international partnerships and cutting-edge research projects, Roma Tre continues to grow and consolidate its reputation.

University of Rome Tor Vergata

Established in 1982, Tor Vergata lies in the south-eastern area of the city and is particularly renowned for its programmes in medicine, economics, engineering and natural sciences. The university also hosts major research centres, teaching hospitals and collaborations with space agencies and technology companies. Its strong international outlook is reflected in numerous exchange programmes and joint research initiatives with institutions abroad.

University of Rome Foro Italico

The only university in Italy with this specialisation, the University of Rome Foro Italico is entirely devoted to sport, exercise and wellness sciences. Located within the Foro Italico complex, it offers degree courses and research programmes covering fields from physiotherapy to athletic training, working closely with sports federations and leading research centres.

LUISS Guido Carli

Among Rome’s private universities, LUISS Guido Carli stands out for its focus on the social, economic, legal and political sciences. Renowned for the quality of its teaching and its close ties with the professional world, the university trains future leaders and professionals equipped to operate in international settings. Through partnerships with companies, institutions and organisations abroad, LUISS offers modern, market-oriented degree programmes designed to meet the demands of the global economy.

LUMSA University

The Libera Università Maria SS. Assunta (LUMSA) is a private institution with a strong humanistic and social focus. Established in 1939, it offers degree courses in psychology, communication, law, education sciences and social work. LUMSA places particular emphasis on ethical education and close interaction between students and lecturers, creating highly qualified and tailored learning paths.

Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome

Founded in 1993, the Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome is closely integrated with a modern teaching hospital, giving students access to research opportunities and hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities. Its commitment to international collaboration and technological innovation has made it a leading institution in the field of scientific education.

European University of Rome

The European University of Rome is a private institution designed to provide a high-quality, interdisciplinary and international education. Established in 2004, it offers degree programmes in economics, law, psychology, tourism and communication. The university actively encourages internships, study abroad opportunities and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

University of International Studies of Rome (UNINT)

UNINT is a small private university specialising in languages, communication and international relations. It places strong emphasis on the quality of teaching and on building direct links with businesses and institutions. Its courses are designed to prepare professionals to work in multilingual and intercultural environments, meeting the demands of today’s global market.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

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