How Humanitas University became Italy’s top medical school

At Humanitas University in Milan, Italy, students follow a proven formula for success. They study at a world-class institution, shadow top researchers and practitioners across a spectrum of specialities, and gain invaluable, well-rounded experiences. This is the university that awarded an honorary degree in medicine in 2021 to Katalin Karikò, who later received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2023 — which gives you an idea of its global impact.

Another recent event demonstrates this: Humanitas University’s debut in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. This accomplishment marks a pivotal moment in the institution’s history, as it now stands proudly among the top 250 universities globally, having been assessed among 1,799 universities. It is the best new entry in these prestigious rankings.

In 2022, Humanitas University ranked first in the EU for the percentage of scientific publications in the top 10% worldwide by the Leiden CWTS Ranking and eighth in Europe for its degree in Medicine by U-Multirank.

The six-year MD course in Medicine and Surgery is taught entirely in English and is designed to ensure international success. The degree helps students gain the competencies needed to thrive in the clinical and research areas commonly practised and studied in Italy and elsewhere. With 4 out of 10 students coming from abroad, the campus is rich with diverse perspectives. Here, students benefit from renowned visiting faculty and a global roster of professors and medical practitioners as well. With their insights and through interaction with them, graduates have the know-how to work across disciplines and communicate across cultures as an MD in the EU and abroad.

Learn by doing

Humanitas University offers programmes inspired by active learning, balancing theory and practice to ensure students develop critical and autonomous thinking skills alongside specific professional competencies. To that end, the university hosts Humanitas research laboratories and a state-of-the-art Simulation Centre –– the first of its kind in Italy –– to help students acquire professional skills.

From their first year, students gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills through multidisciplinary modules, hands-on training, and simulation activities. These learning experiences are led by esteemed professors and researchers with extensive international expertise, including three Nobel Prize winners. A dedicated team of 150 doctors also serve as tutors and are integral teaching community members.

In third year, students start their clinical training at Humanitas Research Hospitals under the tutelage of specialised tutors. For those seeking more, the Virgilio Programme provides a unique opportunity to engage in one month of biomedical research, fostering active participation in scientific endeavours. A Humanitas University encourages students to explore the world of medicine beyond their campus, there are many study abroad opportunities available through travel grants and the Erasmus programme as well.

The best part? Humanitas University was built alongside the renowned Humanitas Research Hospital, renowned across Europe for its excellent healthcare and advanced research standards. These spaces contribute to the development of practice-ready, outstanding medical professionals. And the university has the accolades to prove it. The medical school was recently ranked 33rd in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals 2023.

Humanitas University promotes active learning, integrating theory and practice for students to cultivate critical thinking and professional skills. Source: Humanitas University

Joining Humanitas University is competitive but thanks to a merit-based scholarship programme, deserving students can apply for total or partial scholarships available to Eu and non-EU students for the 2023/2024 academic year.

How to get into Italy’s top medical school

For aspiring medical professionals, the path to excellence begins with the HUMAT Admission Test. This test aims to identify talented students with strong skills in scientific thinking, critical thinking, and solid academic literacy regardless of their educational background.

In 2024, students will have two opportunities to demonstrate their skills and knowledge: February 2 and March 8. That’s not all. Second-to-last-year students eyeing the October 2025 intake can also participate. They can take the test in February and March 2024 and possibly in February and March 2025. Only the higher of the two scores will be considered for the final ranking list. Registration will start on October 30 and will close on January 24 in order to register for both the test sessions.

To ensure students are well-prepared for the HUMAT Admission Test, Humanitas University provides an online preparation week in November. It is a five-day intensive course designed to teach students effective study methods and covers topics like Logical Reasoning, Critical Thinking, and Scientific Thinking through online modules, lectures, and practice sessions. Participants will receive feedback from teachers and engage in interactive simulations.

Registration is open; currently, 50 spots are still available. Click here for details.

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