The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, known in Italian as "Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore" (UCSC), is one of the most prestigious and largest private universities in Europe. It is located primarily in Milan, Italy, with additional campuses in Rome, Brescia, Piacenza-Cremona, and Campobasso. Founded in 1921 by Father Agostino Gemelli, along with a group of Catholic intellectuals, the university aims to integrate Christian principles into higher education and to contribute to the development of culture and society through research and teaching.
The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs across fields, including economics, social sciences, law, medicine and healthcare, psychology, education, and the humanities. It is well-regarded for its high-quality education, research outputs, and strong connections with the industry, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships and career advancement.
Economics and Business
Law
Medicine and Surgery
Psychology
Education and Training
Humanities
Political and Social Sciences
Agricultural and Food Sciences
Law and International Affairs
Healthcare and Medicine
Psychology and Cognitive Science
Education Sciences
Arts and Philosophy
Science and Technology
Social Sciences
Biomedical Sciences
Economics and Finance
Law
Psychology
Education Sciences
Humanities
Political and Social Sciences
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Economics and Business |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Law |
5 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Medicine and Surgery |
6 years |
15,000 - 20,000+ |
|
Psychology |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Education and Training |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Humanities |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Political and Social Sciences |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
|
Agricultural and Food Sciences |
3 years |
8,000 - 15,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Economics and Management |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
International Business |
1-2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Health Economics and Management |
1-2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Medicine and Healthcare Management |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Global Affairs and International Relations |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Psychology and Cognitive Science |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Education Sciences |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Arts and Philosophy |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Legal Studies |
1-2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Social Sciences |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Science and Technology |
2 years |
10,000 - 20,000 |
|
Course Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biomedical Sciences |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Economics and Finance |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Law |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Psychology |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Education Sciences |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Humanities |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Political and Social Sciences |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
|
Science and Technology |
3-4 years |
3,000 - 6,000 |
UCSC offers a variety of programs in English across different levels of study, including bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. programs, particularly in fields like International Business, Economics, Medicine, and Global Affairs. This makes it accessible for students who are not proficient in Italian.
For programs taught in English, students are generally required to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent. For programs taught in Italian, proof of Italian language proficiency is necessary, which can be demonstrated through exams like CILS or CELI.
Tuition fees vary depending on the program and the student's nationality. Scholarships and financial aid options may be available to help international students fund their studies.
UCSC offers scholarships and financial aid to international students, which can include merit-based scholarships, financial need-based assistance, and country-specific scholarships.
The university has a vibrant campus life with clubs, organizations, and activities. International students can immerse themselves in Italian culture and campus life, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
UCSC provides dedicated support services for international students, including assistance with visas and residence permits, orientation programs, and help with finding accommodation.
With a strong international orientation, UCSC has partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide, offering students opportunities for exchanges and international research collaborations.
Choose Your Program: Start by selecting the undergraduate program you are interested in.
Check Requirements: Each program has specific admission criteria, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and any program-specific requirements.
Application Submission: Apply through the UCSC online application portal. You will need to submit documents, such as high school transcripts, proof of language proficiency (if the program is in English or Italian), a CV, and a motivational letter.
Entrance Exam: Some programs may require you to take an entrance exam.
Interview: An interview might be part of the selection process.
Admission Decision: After reviewing your application and supporting materials, UCSC will make an admission decision.
Enrollment: If accepted, you will need to complete the enrollment process, which includes submitting additional documents and paying the tuition fees.
Program Selection: Identify the master’s program you wish to apply to.
Admission Requirements: Ensure you meet the academic and language requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent tests for English-taught programs).
Application: Apply online, providing necessary documents such as your bachelor's degree certificate, transcripts, CV, motivational letter, and proof of language proficiency.
Evaluation: The university may conduct interviews or require additional assessments.
Acceptance and Enrollment: Once accepted, follow the university's instructions for enrollment and payment of tuition fees.
Find Your Field: Determine the Ph.D. program aligned with your research interests.
Eligibility Criteria: Check the specific academic and research requirements, including necessary master’s degree qualifications and language proficiency.
Application Submission: Apply through the UCSC portal, submitting documents like your master’s degree transcripts, research proposal, CV, and letters of recommendation.
Interview and Assessment: You may need to undergo an interview and present your research proposal.
Admission and Enrollment: If selected, you will receive instructions on how to enroll and commence your doctoral studies.
Undergraduate Programs:
The main intake usually occurs in the Fall (September/October), with applications often opening in the previous spring.
Some programs may have a Spring intake (January/February), but this is less common.
Graduate Programs:
Most master's programs start in the Fall, with the application period typically spanning from late winter to early summer.
Some programs, especially those catering to international students, might also offer a Spring intake.
Doctoral Programs:
Ph.D. programs usually have one intake per year, often in the Fall.
Application deadlines can vary significantly depending on the department and specific research program.
Undergraduate Programs:
A high school diploma or equivalent international qualification.
Proof of language proficiency (in Italian for Italian-taught programs, and English for English-taught programs), usually through standardized language tests.
Specific entrance exams or interviews may be required for certain programs.
Graduate Programs:
A bachelor's degree or equivalent international qualification in a relevant field of study.
Language proficiency in the language of instruction, demonstrated through tests like TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs.
Depending on the program, additional requirements such as GMAT or GRE scores, work experience, portfolios, or interviews might be needed.
Doctoral Programs:
A master's degree or equivalent in a related subject area.
Demonstrable research ability, usually in the form of a research proposal or a portfolio of previous research work.
Language proficiency, depending on the program’s language of instruction.
An interview or additional assessment processes are often part of the selection.
Ranking System |
UCSC Rating/Rank |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
top 651-700 globally |
|
US News & World Report |
top 500 globally |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage/Amount |
Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High academic achievement, International students |
Tuition fee reduction or waiver, possibly living expenses |
Typically by admission deadline |
|
International Student Scholarships |
Non-Italian residency, Undergraduate or Postgraduate enrollment |
Partial to full tuition fee waivers |
Varies, often early in the admission cycle |
|
Cattolica Africa Scholarship Program |
African students, Master’s degree program applicants |
Full tuition waiver, sometimes including accommodation |
Early application recommended |
|
UCSC International Scholarship |
Exceptional international students, Need-based |
Partial to full tuition waiver |
Before the academic year starts |
|
Erasmus+ Program |
EU and selected non-EU students, Study exchange criteria |
Mobility grant, varies by country and exchange duration |
Depends on Erasmus+ deadlines |
|
Research Scholarships |
Postgraduate students, Specific research projects |
Stipend and/or tuition waiver |
Varies with department and project |
Campus |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Monthly Cost Range (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Milan |
University Residences |
Single or shared rooms, usually with shared facilities |
€400 - €800 |
|
|
Private Housing |
Assistance in finding apartments or rooms in shared flats |
€500 - €1,000+ |
|
Rome |
University Residences |
Modern facilities, single or shared rooms, often with private bathrooms |
€450 - €850 |
|
|
Private Housing |
Support in locating private apartments or shared accommodations |
€400 - €900+ |
|
Brescia |
University Residences |
Limited availability, single or shared rooms with common areas |
€300 - €600 |
|
|
Private Housing |
Help available for finding private rentals or rooms |
€250 - €700 |
|
Piacenza-Cremona |
University Residences |
Mainly shared rooms, designed for student needs |
€250 - €500 |
|
|
Private Housing |
Assistance provided for finding private rooms or apartments |
€200 - €600 |
Diverse Programs: A wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like Humanities, Sciences, Economics, and Medicine.
International Exposure: Opportunities for study abroad programs, international internships, and a multicultural environment with students from all over the world.
State-of-the-Art Libraries: Extensive resources, study spaces, and digital access to journals and databases.
Modern Classrooms and Labs: Equipped with the latest technology for an enhanced learning experience.
Sports Facilities: Gyms, sports courts, and fitness classes to keep students active and engaged.
accommodation options, from university residences to private housing, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Dining services on campus offer a range of Italian and international cuisine, accommodating dietary needs.
Student Associations: Numerous clubs and organizations, including cultural, social, academic, and sports clubs, allowing students to pursue interests and hobbies.
Events and Workshops: Regularly organized events, workshops, and seminars on a variety of topics enrich students' academic and social life.
Cultural Immersion: Being in cities with deep historical roots, students can explore museums, theaters, historical sites, and partake in local festivals and events.
The university's career services offer workshops, one-on-one counseling, and networking events to prepare students for their future careers.
Internship opportunities with leading companies and organizations are available, providing practical experience in students' fields of study.
International Office: Dedicated support for international students, offering guidance on visas, accommodation, and adjusting to life in Italy.
Counseling and Health Services: Access to mental health support, counseling, and medical services to ensure students' well-being.
Language Support: Italian language courses for non-native speakers, helping international students integrate and engage more fully with the community.
Career Counseling: Offers personalized career advice, helping students identify their professional goals and the steps needed to achieve them.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops on resume writing, interview preparation, job searching strategies, and other career-related skills.
Career Days and Job Fairs: The university organizes career days and job fairs where students can meet potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and make valuable connections.
Mandatory Internships: Many programs at the university include mandatory internships, ensuring that students gain practical experience in their field of study.
Internship Office: A dedicated office that helps students find internship opportunities that match their career interests, both in Italy and internationally.
Corporate Partnerships: Strong relationships with leading companies and organizations across sectors provide students with access to quality internships and job placements.
Alumni Association: An active alumni network that offers mentoring programs, networking events, and career advice to current students.
Alumni Success Stories: The university often highlights successful alumni, which serves as inspiration and provides networking opportunities for students.
The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart has a solid track record of graduate employability. Many graduates find employment in their field of study within a few months of graduation.
The university's strong emphasis on integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills makes its graduates highly sought after by employers.
Industry-Specific Events: Departments frequently host industry-specific guest lectures, seminars, and workshops, allowing students to engage with professionals and experts in their fields.
Research and Development Projects: Opportunities for students to participate in research and development projects in collaboration with industry partners, enhancing their employability.
Program Popularity: More sought-after programs might have lower acceptance rates due to higher competition.
Academic Requirements: Different programs have varying academic and language proficiency requirements. Programs, especially at the graduate level or those in fields like Medicine and Healthcare, might be more selective.
Application Quality: Beyond meeting the minimum requirements, the quality of an applicant's personal statements, letters of recommendation, and relevant extracurricular or professional experiences can greatly impact their chances of acceptance.
Strong Academic Record: High grades relevant to the chosen field of study.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English for international programs or Italian for programs taught in Italian, demonstrated through standardized language tests.
Well-Rounded Application: Strong personal statement, letters of recommendation, and, where applicable, a good portfolio or relevant professional experience.
Location: Milan, Lombardy
Overview: The main campus of the university is in Milan, Italy's fashion and financial capital. Situated in the heart of the city, the campus is renowned for its beautiful historical buildings, including the iconic Gothic-style structure, Largo Gemelli. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in economics, law, arts and humanities, and health sciences.
Location: Rome, Lazio
Overview: Located in Italy's capital, the Rome campus specializes in healthcare and medical sciences, including medicine, nursing, and psychology. It's known for its advanced research facilities and close connections to hospitals and medical institutions in Rome, providing students with practical experiences alongside their studies.
Location: Brescia, Lombardy
Overview: Smaller than the Milan and Rome campuses, Brescia offers a more intimate learning environment. It hosts a variety of programs, with particular strengths in engineering, education, and psychology. The campus is in the city center, giving students easy access to Brescia's rich cultural and historical sites.
Location: Piacenza and Cremona, Emilia-Romagna (Piacenza) and Lombardy (Cremona)
Overview: These campuses are known for their focus on agriculture, food sciences, and environmental studies, reflecting the regions' historical connection to these industries. The campuses offer state-of-the-art research facilities and are involved in significant research projects in these fields.
