Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

Tradition in heart, innovation in mind, excellence in soul.

📍 Milan, Italy 🇮🇹

🏆 #11 in Italy · QS World #409 · THE World #251 · ARWU #401

Quick Facts about Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

  • Founded: 1921
  • Type: Private Non-Profit
  • Students: 41,398
  • International: 10%
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $7,000 – $10,000/year
  • Language: Italian, English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
  • Intakes: Fall

About Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore) in Milan, Italy, is the largest private university in Europe, offering a diverse and multidisciplinary academic environment. With a strong emphasis on both Italian and English-taught programs, it attracts a significant international student population, fostering a global learning experience. The university is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to supporting its students throughout their educational journey and beyond.

Academics

Università Cattolica boasts 12 faculties and 7 postgraduate schools, providing a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs. The Milan campus alone features eight faculties, including Economics, Law, Arts and Philosophy, Psychology, and Political and Social Sciences. The university is known for its multidisciplinary approach, ensuring students receive specialized training enriched by influences from various fields. Many of its disciplines are highly ranked globally, with 20 subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.

International Students

Cattolica International provides comprehensive support services for international students, assisting with admissions, registration, housing, academic advising, health services, and visa applications. The university offers over 40 English-taught undergraduate and postgraduate programs, making it accessible to a global student body. With students from 165 different nationalities, the university fosters a truly international and culturally integrated environment. International students can also engage with numerous student organizations and a Buddy Programme designed to help them adapt to university life.

Campus & Location

The Milan campus of Università Cattolica is situated in the vibrant heart of the city, housed in a historic 16th-century monastery restructured by Renaissance architect Donato Bramante. Milan itself is Italy's economic capital, a global hub for fashion and design, offering a dynamic city life with numerous annual international events. The campus provides various facilities, including a bank, cafeteria, bookstore, library, and medical center. Milan is well-connected with efficient public transportation, three airports, and high-speed trains, and is just a two-hour drive from the Alps and the Ligurian coast.

Career Outcomes

Università Cattolica places a strong emphasis on career development, ranking highly in Italy for employer-student connections. The Career Service assists students with internships and employment opportunities, boasting connections with over 2,000 companies and facilitating over 7,500 internships annually. The university's strong ties with the professional world ensure that the curriculum is aligned with the latest industry trends. Graduates have gone on to achieve success in various fields, with notable alumni including former Prime Ministers, CEOs, and prominent figures in arts and sports.

Information for International Students at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Italy welcomes international students, with 10% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 10% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$450/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Italian, English

Admissions Requirements for Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Catholic University of the Sacred Heart:

  • IELTS minimum: 6
  • TOEFL minimum: 80
  • GPA minimum: 2.75
  • Application fee: $75
  • Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
  • Application deadline: October 15 (Spring Semester), April 15 (Fall Semester)

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Programs at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (26 programs)

Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offers 26 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (6)

  • Nursing (BSc) — 36 months · Italian · STEM
    This program provides essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a career in nursing, focusing on patient care and health promotion.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse
  • Philosophy (BA) — 36 months · Italian
    This program explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language through the study of major philosophical traditions and thinkers. Students develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
    Field: Philosophy
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Journalist, Educator
  • Economics and Management (BSc) — 36 months · English
    This program offers a solid foundation in economic principles, business management, and quantitative methods, preparing students for careers in finance, marketing, and consulting. Students learn about market dynamics, organizational behavior, and strategic decision-making.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Consultant
  • Communication and Society (BA) — 36 months · Italian
    This program examines the role of communication in contemporary society, covering media studies, public relations, and digital communication.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Journalist, PR Specialist, Social Media Manager
  • Agricultural and Food Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · Italian · STEM
    This program explores the scientific principles underlying agricultural production, food processing, and sustainable food systems. Students learn about crop science, animal husbandry, and food technology.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Agronomist, Food Technologist, Agricultural Consultant
  • Psychology (BSc) — 36 months · Italian
    This program introduces students to the fundamental theories and research methods in psychology, covering cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills related to human behavior.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychology Assistant, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker

Master Programs (14)

  • International Management (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program focuses on developing leadership and strategic management skills for global business environments, with an emphasis on international markets.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: International Business Manager, Consultant, Export Manager
  • Medicine and Surgery (MSc) — 72 months · English · STEM
    This program provides comprehensive medical education, integrating basic sciences with clinical practice to train future doctors. Students gain in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and clinical methodologies.
    Field: Medicine
    Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher
  • Global Business Management (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program prepares students for leadership roles in international organizations, focusing on global strategy, cross-cultural management, and international finance. It provides a deep understanding of the complexities of the global marketplace.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: International Business Manager, Global Marketing Specialist, Trade Analyst
  • Food Marketing and Business Strategies (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities in the food industry, covering marketing strategies, supply chain management, and consumer behavior in the food sector. It prepares students for leadership roles in food businesses.
    Field: Food Business
    Career outcomes: Food Marketing Manager, Agribusiness Consultant, Product Development Manager
  • Management for Social Innovation and Sustainability (MSc) — 24 months · English
    Students learn to develop and manage sustainable business models and social innovation projects, addressing global challenges.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: Sustainability Manager, Social Impact Consultant, CSR Specialist
  • Data Science for Business (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program combines data science techniques with business applications, teaching students how to analyze large datasets to inform strategic decisions. It covers machine learning, statistical modeling, and data visualization in a business context.
    Field: Data Science
    Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst
  • Clinical Psychology (MSc) — 24 months · Italian
    This program provides advanced training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychological disorders, preparing students for careers as clinical psychologists. It includes supervised clinical practice and research opportunities.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor
  • Global Politics and International Relations (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program analyzes global political dynamics, international institutions, and foreign policy, preparing students for careers in diplomacy and international organizations.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Affairs Analyst, Policy Advisor
  • Digital Communication Management (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program trains professionals in managing digital communication strategies, social media, and online content for businesses and organizations.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Digital Marketing Manager, Social Media Strategist, Content Creator
  • Management (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program focuses on advanced management theories and practices, including strategic management, international business, and organizational development. Students develop leadership skills and a global perspective on business challenges.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Project Manager, Entrepreneur
  • Banking and Finance (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program provides specialized knowledge in financial markets, corporate finance, and risk management, preparing students for careers in banking, investment, and financial consulting. It covers advanced quantitative methods and financial modeling.
    Field: Finance
    Career outcomes: Investment Banker, Financial Analyst, Risk Manager
  • Communication, Innovation and Marketing (MSc) — 24 months · Italian
    This program focuses on strategic communication, digital marketing, and innovation management, preparing students for dynamic roles in the communication industry. It covers new media, branding, and consumer behavior.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Communication Specialist, Brand Manager
  • International Relations and Global Affairs (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program examines contemporary global issues, international politics, and diplomacy, preparing students for careers in international organizations, government, and NGOs. It covers international law, security, and development.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Development Officer
  • Law (MA) — 60 months · Italian
    This comprehensive program provides a deep understanding of legal systems, principles, and practices, covering various branches of law such as civil, criminal, and international law. It prepares students for legal professions.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant

PhD Programs (6)

  • PhD in Management (PhD) — 36 months · English
    This program provides rigorous training in management research, covering areas such as organizational behavior, strategy, and marketing. Doctoral candidates develop advanced analytical skills and contribute to management theory.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Researcher
  • PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This doctoral program focuses on cutting-edge research in various biomedical fields, including molecular biology, genetics, and pharmacology. Students engage in laboratory work and contribute to scientific discoveries.
    Field: Biomedical Sciences
    Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Biotech Scientist, University Professor
  • PhD in Economics and Finance (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research training in economics and finance, focusing on theoretical and empirical methodologies. Students conduct original research under faculty supervision, contributing to academic knowledge.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Financial Researcher
  • PhD in Linguistic Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English
    This doctoral program provides advanced research opportunities in linguistics, covering areas such as theoretical linguistics, applied linguistics, and language acquisition. Students conduct original research on language structure and use.
    Field: Linguistics
    Career outcomes: Linguist, University Professor, Language Researcher
  • PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 36 months · English
    This program offers advanced research training in various areas of psychology, such as cognitive, developmental, and clinical psychology. Students conduct independent research and contribute to psychological theory and practice.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Academic Psychologist, Research Scientist, Advanced Clinical Practitioner
  • PhD in History (PhD) — 36 months · Italian
    This program offers advanced research in historical studies, allowing students to specialize in various periods and geographical areas. Doctoral candidates engage in archival research and contribute to historical scholarship.
    Field: History
    Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, University Professor

Scholarships & Tuition at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

Annual tuition for international students: $7,000 – $10,000/year

✅ Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

  • National Ranking: #11 in Italy
  • QS World University Ranking: #409
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #251
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #401
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$450/month

Key Highlights

  • Largest private university in Europe
  • Five campuses across Italy
  • Renowned Gemelli University Hospital
  • Top-ranked for graduate employability
  • Strong emphasis on multidisciplinary research
  • Prestigious global academic reputation

Accreditation

  • Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of University and Research)
  • Ministry of Education, Universities, and Research of Italy

Fields of Study at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

  • Economics
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Political Science
  • Agriculture

Notable Alumni

  • Gianni Rodari
  • Romano Prodi
  • Francesco Cossiga
  • Roberto Vecchioni
  • Matilda Lutz

Frequently Asked Questions about Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

What is Catholic University of the Sacred Heart?

Catholic University of the Sacred Heart is a private non-profit university located in Milan, Italy, founded in 1921. It has approximately 41,398 students, with 10% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart?

Tuition fees at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart for international students range from $7,000 – $10,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $450/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Catholic University of the Sacred Heart?

IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. GPA minimum: 2.75. Application fee: $75. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: October 15 (Spring Semester), April 15 (Fall Semester).

What language are courses taught in at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart?

Courses at Catholic University of the Sacred Heart are taught in Italian and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.

How many programs does Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offer?

Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offers 26 programs: 6 Bachelor's, 14 Master's, and 6 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Catholic University of the Sacred Heart ranked?

#11 in Italy · QS World #409 · THE World #251 · ARWU #401.

Does Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offer scholarships?

Yes, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Catholic University of the Sacred Heart provide visa support?

Yes, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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