Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

The Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, founded in 1997, stands out for its strong international outlook, multilingual approach, and high percentage of international students and teaching staff. With courses offered in German, Italian, English, and Ladin, the university creates an ideal environment for academic and professional growth, equipping students with the communication skills required in a globalized society. Its five faculties—Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences; Design and Art; Economics and Management; Education; and Engineering—along with seven competence centers, form the foundation for a diverse range of research and teaching initiatives. 

The university fosters collaboration through international and inter-regional networks, such as the Euregio project with the universities of Innsbruck and Trento. This commitment to quality is reflected in its consistently high rankings. In 2024, unibz was ranked first among small non-state universities in Italy by Censis for the eighth consecutive year. It also achieved strong global rankings, placing in the 351-400 band in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings and earning recognition for “Research Quality” and “International Outlook.” Similarly, unibz ranks among the top 250 universities globally for “International Faculty Ratio” in the QS World University Rankings. 

Multilingualism is a distinctive feature of unibz, with courses, research, and events conducted in its three official languages. This approach not only enhances academic learning but also prepares students for international careers. Its commitment to European quality standards is ensured through rigorous monitoring by ANVUR, Italy’s national quality assurance agency. The university’s strategic and financial plan for 2023-2025 underscores its dedication to teaching excellence, research innovation, and efficient administration, supported primarily by funding from the Autonomous Province of Bozen-Bolzano. 

As a public institution governed by public law, unibz adheres to Italian Ministry of Education guidelines while maintaining its autonomy in strategy and performance. With its focus on quality, innovation, and global engagement, the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano continues to attract students and researchers seeking a world-class education in an international and multilingual setting.