The University of Bologna, located in the vibrant city of Bologna, Italy, is renowned for its exceptional medical program. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to research and innovation, the University of Bologna’s medical school is a popular choice for aspiring medical professionals from around the world. Studying medicine at the University of Bologna provides students with a unique opportunity to learn from world-class faculty, gain hands-on clinical experience, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Italy. In this article, we will explore what makes studying medicine at the University of Bologna so special and why it is a top choice for students seeking a career in healthcare.
Lara Kuzu – Bologna’s EnterMedSchool Representative
Here is what Lara, Bologna’s representative on EnterMedSchool has to say about Bologna! Visit her instagram page to ask her questions and find more pictures and videos of the medical school at the university of Bologna!
One of the standout features of this university is the high quality research-based education provided by knowledgeable professors. The lectures take place within the largest hospital in Italy, which provides a unique and enriching learning experience. In addition, laboratory lessons are held in a different area of the university, which is conveniently located near both the hospital and city center.
The professors are approachable, with a strong command of the English language, which is a bonus for international students. They provide students with numerous opportunities to participate in their research projects and attend conferences around the world. Furthermore, they make it easy to obtain additional support by using the Virtuale platform, where all teaching supplements are uploaded, and a Medicine and Surgery Drive where students can upload notes.
As for the exams, the majority of them are written, with oral exams slowly integrated, so students can easily adapt to the testing format. Written exams are usually multiple choice questions with two written/open questions at the end. Oral exams are fair and professors are accommodating, usually taking 15-20 minutes per student. In case a student needs more tries to pass an exam, they have unlimited attempts to do so.
The clinical rounds at the University of Bologna start early in the first year, with a Basic Life Support clerkship taught by Emergency Medicine doctors. In the second year, students learn Basic Surgical Skills, Basic Nursing Skills, and Approaching the Patient clerkships, and from the third year on, they are placed in different departments of the hospital. Elective clerkships are also available from the fourth year onwards. Students can choose which hospital they would like to take their clerkships at, with options such as Ospedale Maggiore and Policlinico Sant’Orsola.
Aside from the excellent education provided by the university, the city of Bologna itself is a major draw for students. As the best student city in the world, Bologna offers plenty of opportunities for entertainment, with a vibrant nightlife and plenty of bars and clubs. During warmer months, students can relax and enjoy the weather at the beautiful Giardini Margherita park. The cost of living in Bologna is not as expensive as Rome or Milan, but it’s also not as cheap as other cities. Accommodation can be challenging to find, especially in the first year, but there are various resources available to assist in the process.
In summary, the University of Bologna provides a world-class education in an exceptional student city, with an array of opportunities for students to excel in their studies and gain valuable experience. As a representative of EnterMedSchool, I encourage all aspiring medical students to visit my Instagram page and explore the posts that showcase the university and the city. I can’t wait to see you at the University of Bologna!
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Timetable
At the University of Bologna, the medical program follows a rigorous and structured timetable designed to provide students with comprehensive training in all aspects of medicine. From the very first year of study, students can expect to have a full schedule of morning and afternoon classes, with little downtime in between. This demanding schedule reflects the university’s commitment to ensuring that students receive a thorough education that prepares them for the challenges of a career in healthcare.
The academic year at the University of Bologna is divided into two semesters, as is common in most Italian universities. The first semester runs from October to December, while the second semester runs from January to May. During each semester, students will be expected to attend lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as undertake independent study and research. The curriculum is carefully designed to provide a balance of theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on hands-on experience from the earliest stages of the program.
One of the highlights of studying medicine at the University of Bologna is the opportunity to gain clinical experience from the second year of study. Although this experience is largely laboratory-based at this stage, it provides a valuable opportunity for students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. As students progress through the program, they will have the opportunity to participate in clinical rotations and clerkships, where they will work alongside experienced healthcare professionals and gain firsthand experience of patient care. Overall, the timetable at the University of Bologna is challenging but rewarding, providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for a successful career in medicine.
IMAT Minimum Scores
| Year | Minimum Score (Non-European) | European Scores (First/Last Round) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 50 | First: 57.8 / Last: 47.2 |
| 2021 | 48.9 | First: 48.6 / Last: 42.6 |
| 2022 | 51.6 | First: 48.4 / Last: 41.5 |
| 2023 | 59.1 | First: 43.9 / Last: 42.6 |
Exam Structure
At the University of Bologna, the medical program is known for its unique and personalized approach to teaching and assessment, which can be challenging for students who are accustomed to more traditional examination formats. The exams and courses are scheduled by discipline, and large subject exams are divided into smaller modules, which are taught and assessed by one or two professors.
This individualized approach allows professors to tailor their teaching and assessment methods to the specific needs and learning styles of their students. Each professor is responsible for setting and administering the exams for their respective modules, which can take a variety of formats, including oral, written, or practical exams.
While this approach to assessment may require students to be versatile and adaptable, it has many benefits for their education. By working closely with their professors and receiving individualized feedback, students can gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in the field of medicine. Additionally, this approach fosters a sense of community and collaboration among students, who often work together to prepare for exams and share resources and knowledge.
One of the unique features of the University of Bologna’s exam structure is the emphasis on practical exams. These exams allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios. For instance, in anatomy, students may be asked to identify structures in a diagram or model, while in pharmacology, they may be asked to demonstrate how to administer a drug or identify potential drug interactions. These practical exams not only test students’ knowledge but also prepare them for the challenges and demands of working in the medical field.
In conclusion, the exam structure at the University of Bologna’s medical program is challenging but ultimately rewarding. By providing a personalized approach to teaching and assessment and emphasizing practical exams, Bologna’s medical program prepares students for success in their future careers and fosters a sense of community and collaboration that is essential for the practice of medicine.
The History of The University of Bologna
The University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe and one of the most renowned universities in the world. It was founded in the Italian city of Bologna in the 11th century and became a center of learning for canon and civil law in the 12th and 13th centuries. This prestigious university drew students from all over Europe and gave rise to the formation of guilds or associations to protect the rights of foreign scholars.
The medical faculty at Bologna became famous in the 13th century for reintroducing human dissection, a practice that had not been used in Europe since Roman times. This led to significant advancements in medical knowledge and contributed to the development of the medical profession. The faculty of philosophy and liberal arts were also established around the same time.
Initially, the students at Bologna were mostly mature men who were already working in the church or state. However, over time, the university began to admit women as students and teachers, making it one of the first universities in Europe to do so. The faculty of science was later developed in the 17th century, further expanding the scope of education at the university.
After a period of decline, Bologna was reorganized in 1860 and regained its position as one of Italy’s premier universities. Today, the University of Bologna has faculties of jurisprudence, political science, letters and philosophy, medicine, and engineering. It continues to be a leader in research and innovation, attracting students and scholars from all over the world.
Cost of Studying and Living
The cost of studying medicine at the University of Bologna is generally affordable, with tuition fees calculated based on the prospective student’s income. For students from very low-income backgrounds, it may even be possible to study for free. The average tuition fees for students at Bologna range from 750-1000 euros, with some courses ending up at the higher end of 3000 euros. In addition to tuition fees, there are also various bursaries available to students, which are also calculated based on income. However, it is important to note that some bursaries may have limited attainability for the average student, with amounts ranging from 1000-2000 euros.
Similar to most universities in Italy, students can also apply for the ISEE (Indicatore della Situazione Economica Equivalente) to receive tuition fee discounts and grants. The ISEE is a tool that calculates a student’s economic situation and determines how much financial aid they are eligible for.
It is worth noting that while the cost of studying at Bologna is generally affordable, the city itself can be quite expensive. As a popular tourist destination, the cost of living in Bologna can be high, particularly for students living in central areas. However, there are ways to reduce living costs, such as living in student housing or sharing an apartment with other students.
Despite its expense, Bologna is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers a unique study abroad experience. While it can be chaotic at times, particularly during peak tourist season, the city’s many cultural and historical attractions make it a fantastic place to study medicine and immerse oneself in Italian culture.
| Expense | Cost (EUR) |
| Tuition fees | 750-3,000 per year (calculated based on income) |
| Student housing | 250-500 per month |
| Food and groceries | 200-300 per month |
| Transportation (bus pass) | 40-70 per month but 150 per year for Students (TPER Card) |
| Books and study materials | 200-300 per year |
| Health insurance | 149-215 per year |
| Mobile phone plan | 10-30 per month |
| Internet and utilities | 50-100 per month |
| Leisure activities (movies, dining out, etc.) | 100-200 per month |
It’s important to note that these are just estimates and costs can vary depending on factors such as where the student lives, their lifestyle, and personal spending habits. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with things like visa applications, travel expenses, and extracurricular activities. Students should budget accordingly and do their research to ensure they are financially prepared for the costs of studying medicine at the University of Bologna.
Summary
Studying medicine at the University of Bologna is a unique and enriching experience that provides students with a comprehensive education and a deep understanding of the medical field. With its world-class faculty, personalized approach to teaching and assessment, and emphasis on practical experience, the University of Bologna’s medical program is a top choice for aspiring medical professionals from around the world.
While the program can be challenging, students who are dedicated and committed to their studies can expect to receive a rigorous and rewarding education that prepares them for success in their future careers. From the personalized exam structure to the emphasis on practical exams, students at Bologna gain valuable skills and knowledge that will serve them well in their future careers.
However, studying medicine at the University of Bologna is not just about academics. The city of Bologna itself is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers an abundance of activities and opportunities for students. With its historic architecture, art, and music, as well as its delicious cuisine and lively nightlife, Bologna is a fantastic place to study and immerse oneself in Italian culture.
Of course, studying abroad comes with its own set of challenges and expenses, and students should be prepared to budget accordingly. While the cost of studying at Bologna is generally affordable, living expenses can be high, particularly in central areas of the city. However, with some planning and budgeting, students can enjoy all that Bologna has to offer while still maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.
In conclusion, studying medicine at the University of Bologna is a unique and rewarding experience that offers students the opportunity to gain a comprehensive education, valuable practical experience, and exposure to a rich and diverse culture. With its world-class faculty, personalized approach to teaching and assessment, and emphasis on practical experience, the University of Bologna’s medical program is an excellent choice for students who are committed to pursuing a career in healthcare.