Study at Perugia's University for Foreigners
A School for International Students in a Small Italian City
Jun 13, 2009
Hoping to study in Italy? Want to live in a city that is not too overwhelming, but still has plenty to do? Consider spending some time at Perugia's Universita' per Stranieri. This small university is part of the main University of Perugia, but offers separate programs for international students, including a strong series of language courses and a teacher training program.
A Few Quick Facts about the University for Foreigners and Perugia
The University of Perugia itself is home to about 31,000 students. The Universita' per Stranieri, founded in 1921, is significantly smaller with about 1,400 students. The university's population makes up just under a fifth of the population of the city, which is slightly over 160,000.
Programs of Study Available at the University
Perugia's Universita' per Stranieri offers programs focused on Italian culture and international relations and communications. The university's degree programs are called "First Level Degree Courses" and "Second Level Degree Courses." First Level programs typically last three years and lead to a Bachelor's degree. The First Level programs of study available are as follows:
- International Communication
- Advertising Techniques
- Teaching of the Italian Language & Culture to Foreigners
- Promotion of Italian Language and Culture Throughout the World
For Second Level programs, there is a slight increase in the level of specialization, as these are two-year Master's programs, but the disciplines available are similar to the First Level. For more information on how the First and Second Level programs work, as well as a list of available upper-level programs, see the University's website.
Language Instruction at the University for Foreigners
One of the major components of the university is Italian language instruction. The courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Courses are divided into three levels, Beginner (known as A1 and A2 courses), Intermediate (B1 and B2), and Advanced (C1 and C2). Many other language schools in Europe use this model.
Teacher Training Programs in Perugia
It is possible for teachers of Italian (both in Italy and abroad) to take what the university refers to as a "refresher" course. There are also courses in methodology and courses geared toward teachers of the humanities.
How to Become a Student at the Universita' per Stranieri
To pursue a complete degree at the university, or to enroll in a language course, the first step is to view the requirements on the school's website. The application form is available online, and the university needs to see some sort of proof of payment for the course. Students will also eventually take an entrance exam. A residence permit is required for non-European Union (EU) citizens intending to stay in Italy for longer than 90 days. Citizens of other EU countries living in Italy for longer than 90 days must simply register as a resident of the town for the length of time they intend to stay.
Where to Find More Information about Perugia and Other University Cities
For more information about Perugia and its university, there are several resources online. Travel books on Italy are useful, as are websites geared toward international students, such as TopUniversities.com and Gullivergo.com. For other options within Italy, consider also the Universita' per Stranieri in Siena. Siena is another great university town in Italy, and, like Perugia, it is a small city with a large percentage of students.
A student hoping to spend time studying in Italy can consider Perugia's Universita' per Stranieri as an option that will help improve his or her understanding of the Italian language and culture, as well as provide the opportunity to meet other students from all over the world. It is ideal for anyone who wants to live in a small university city for either a brief or extended period of time.
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