University of Bologna
The University of Bologna (Italian: Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna, abbreviated Unibo) is a renowned public research institution in Bologna, Italy. It was founded around 1088, making it the world’s oldest continuously operating university and the first institution to grant degrees in higher education. Organized into student guilds (universitas scholarium) by the late 12th century, the university has a rich legacy that is symbolized by its motto, “Alma Mater Studiorum” (“Nourishing Mother of Studies”). With over 90,000 students, it is also one of Europe’s largest universities.
Historical Importance
The University of Bologna holds a pivotal place in history for being the first institution to grant a university degree to a woman, Bettisia Gozzadini, and for awarding the first doctorate in science, along with a salaried professorship, to Laura Bassi. The university played an integral role in developing scientific thought during the medieval and Renaissance periods, educating famous figures like Nicholas Copernicus and other influential scholars. Its alumni have shaped numerous fields, including science, politics, law, and religion in Italy and beyond.
Campuses and Global Presence
Beyond its main campus in Bologna, the University of Bologna has campuses in Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini. It also operates branch centers in Buenos Aires, New York, Brussels, and Shanghai. The university is home to a variety of institutions, including the Collegio Superiore di Bologna, the Bologna School of Advanced Studies, botanical gardens, museums, libraries, and archaeological collections. It also publishes academic work through the Bologna University Press.
Origins and Early History
Although the precise founding date of the University of Bologna is debated, it is widely believed to have been established around 1088. It was granted a charter (Authentica habita) by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa in 1158. The university’s development into a formal institution occurred gradually, with more substantial organization by the late 12th century. Initially, it evolved from mutual aid groups called “nations,” which were formed by foreign students seeking protection against local laws. These societies hired local scholars to teach various subjects, such as law and theology, and over time, their collaboration led to the creation of the university. Students held considerable influence, negotiating with professors and the city, including organizing strikes to safeguard their rights.
Contributions to Law and Science
The University of Bologna is particularly renowned for its expertise in canon and civil law, especially Roman law. Bettisia Gozzadini became one of the first women to receive a university degree in 1237, while Laura Bassi, in 1732, was the first woman to earn a doctorate in science and a salaried teaching position. Bassi, also known as “Bolognese Minerva,” was instrumental in promoting Newtonian mechanics in Italy and became a respected figure in the scientific community.
The university’s model had a lasting impact on higher education throughout Europe. For example, Pope Sixtus IV granted Uppsala University in Sweden the same rights and privileges that Bologna enjoyed, in 1477.
Academic Structure
The University of Bologna is divided into 33 departments, each specializing in various fields of study, such as the arts, humanities, sciences, and engineering. The university offers 101 first-level degree programs (“Laurea”) and 108 second-level programs (“Laurea specialistica” or “Laurea magistrale”). Some programs, including medicine and dentistry, require five to six years of study. Students may also pursue Master’s degrees and PhD programs.
Schools at the University
The university is structured into 11 schools:
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School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
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School of Economics, Management, and Statistics
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School of Engineering and Architecture
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School of Foreign Languages and Literature, Interpreting and Translation
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School of Law
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School of Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Heritage
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School of Medicine and Surgery
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School of Pharmacy, Biotechnologies, and Sport Sciences
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School of Political Sciences
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School of Psychology and Education Sciences
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School of Sciences
Affiliations and Institutions
Mulino
Founded by University of Bologna students in the 1950s, *Il Mulino* became a leading Italian journal for political and cultural analysis. Its success led to the creation of *Il Mulino* publishing house, which remains a significant publisher in Italy today.
Collegio Superiore
The Collegio Superiore is a prestigious institution within the university designed to foster academic excellence. It offers specialized programs and full scholarships to exceptional students, providing additional resources such as personal tutoring and accommodation. To remain enrolled, students are expected to meet high academic standards.