Pisa, a University City

The University of Pisa is a major university with the highest student-to-resident ratio in Italy (around 46,000 students for a population of 90,000). Across the city, more than 150 buildings — both historic and modern — host university life, including the activities of its 20 departments and spaces dedicated to students.
In particular, the teaching facilities (poli didattici) offer 25,000 seats in 400 lecture halls, all equipped with multimedia and network infrastructure.

Founded in 1343, the University of Pisa combines a prestigious historical tradition with a strong commitment to technological innovation. It boasts illustrious students and professors, including Galileo Galilei, as well as three Nobel laureates and many distinguished alumni.

The University comprises ten museums, nine of which are located in Pisa and constitute the University Museum System, and one — the Museum of Natural History — is housed at the Certosa di Calci.
A large proportion of Pisa’s population consists of university students, who animate the city’s social, cultural and economic life. The University is a key economic driver, contributing to the local economy through commerce, the housing market and the tourism industry. Moreover, through research projects and collaborations with local enterprises, it supports the region’s technological and cultural development. Pisa is a place where historical heritage and academic and scientific innovation intertwine, creating a truly unique environment.

A University with a National Reach and Strong Local Roots

A detailed analysis of the student population shows that Pisa is an attractive university hub for students coming from a wide catchment area.

According to data provided by the University’s Statistical Services Office, of the 46,000 students enrolled:

• 32,000 come from Tuscany, including:
• 10,500 from the province of Pisa, with 3,600 residing in the city;
• 8,100 from the province of Lucca, with 2,200 in Lucca and 1,400 in Viareggio;
• 6,000 from the province of Livorno, with 3,400 in Livorno city;
• 3,100 from the province of Massa-Carrara, with 1,400 in Massa and 1,100 in Carrara.

• 12,000 come from other Italian regions, including:
  • Liguria (about 2,600, of whom 2,300 from the province of La Spezia and 970 from La Spezia city);
  • Sicily (2,200);
  • Apulia (1,200);
  • Calabria (1,100).
• 2,000 students obtained their previous qualification abroad.

Co-creating Innovation with and for the Territory

As part of its third mission activities, the University of Pisa is committed to strengthening its relationship with the region, fostering high-quality youth employment, promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in a responsible and sustainable manner, and enhancing knowledge and innovation.
To this end, meetings and exchanges with institutions, associations and organisations play a key role in identifying needs across various areas, including education, research and third mission initiatives.

Read more