Sapienza University
All Around Your University
Sapienza University Rome Guide
Founded by Pope Boniface VIII in 1303, Rome’s Sapienza University is one of the oldest in the world. Its rich history has earned it the motto Il futuro è passato qui (the future has passed here). One of Italy’s main higher education institutions, Sapienza is unrivalled in size – more students enroll here than at any other university in Europe. The university has several campuses, most of which are situated to the east of central Rome, near Termini train station. Sapienza is Italian for wisdom, and the university certainly lives up to its name – according to Mastersportal, it is the 7th best higher education institution in Italy.
- Number of Faculties: 11
- Numbers of students: 110500
- Languages Taught: Italian and English
What students like the most
The proximity to San Lorenzo, the home of Rome’s vibrant student scene and the best place to enjoy an aperitivo after class; independent, local libraries like the Giufà Library Café; cultural hubs like the Nuovo Cinema Palazzo; local pizzerias; Baffo della Gioconda nightclub; the proximity to Termini Rail Station; and an affordable canteen.
What students don´t like
Teachers don’t really control whether people show up to the lessons or not, books for your course are expensive.
What we like the most
- Sapienza offers 10 masters programmes taught in English. Successful alumni and professors include Daniel Bovet, who discovered antihistamines; Maria Montessori, founder of Montessori education; and Federico Fellini, the film director and screenwriter. The institution has 59 libraries (two of which are open 24 hours a day). There is an office dedicated to students with disabilities. Students have access to 3 university hospitals.
Things to keep in mind
- To study at Sapienza, you must speak English. More importantly, in the centre of the campus stands a statue of Minerva, goddess of wisdom. Rumour has it that if you look into her eyes, you will never complete your course.
Facilities & Activities
- MuSa (music at Sapienza) orchestras, jazz bands, choirs, and ensembles. University Concert Institution: organized concerts on Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout June. Theatron – Ancient Theatre Group (translation and mise-en-scène workshops). CUS (Sapienza University Sports Centre) – a wide range of sporting facilities available for students. Sapienza web radio – learn about radio production and contribute ideas for projects and programmes.