Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia The University of Siena has a long tradition that is consistent with the cultural heritage of Tuscany, going back to the Middle Ages. The oldest known document, a decree from the mayor dated December 26, 1240, points out the special legal model of the University, which was different from those of Bologna and Paris in being directly organized by the Municipality.
About Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
To support the institution, citizens renting accommodations to students were taxed, and the revenue was used to pay highly qualified teachers. By the middle of the 13th century, in addition to its famous School of Law, the University already boasted a School of Grammar and a Medical School, the former gaining more attention with the faculty of Pietro Ispano, a notable doctor and philosopher who went on to become Pope John XXI in 1276.
Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
- FAQ’s
One major expansion happened in 1321 when several students moved away from the University of Bologna, leading the Municipality of Siena to invest significantly to house them through privileges, exemptions from taxes, and funding, thereby further augmenting the fame of the University. On August 16, 1357, after protracted diplomatic negotiations, Emperor Charles IV formally legitimized the Sienese Studio as a part of the Universities of the Holy Roman Empire, authorizing it to confer academic degrees in all faculties other than theology, and with very large privileges for the teachers and the students.
By the end of the 14th century, motivated by colleges in Perugia and Bologna, the Bishop of Siena suggested the formation of a college, and thus the House of Wisdom was formed in 1416, drawing students from all over Europe.

Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
After the Republic of Siena’s downfall in 1555, the city governments persuaded Cosimo de’ Medici to retain the University privileges, although in the Medici and subsequent Lorraine domination it never regained former prosperity but enjoyed the support of the city nonetheless. In 1808, with the French occupation of Tuscany, the University was shut down, and only the Medical School continued to operate, opening only after the Restoration, which saw it moved to a former Vallombrosan convent which continues to accommodate the Rectorate.
In the Risorgimento, Sienese students actively engaged in support of the cause of Italian unification, going so far as to create the Company of the University Guard which fought during the First War of Independence, although their politicization resulted in the Grand Duke’s closure of the Medical School, with only the faculties of Jurisprudence and Theology remaining.
The University experienced a resurgence after 1859, bolstered by support from city institutions and legislative recognition that strengthened its Schools of Pharmacy, Obstetrics, and Medicine. However, in 1892, a proposal by Minister of Public Education Ferdinando Martini to shut down smaller universities, including Siena, sparked widespread opposition, leading to merchant strikes, institutional interventions, and public uprisings that forced the minister to withdraw the plan. With the threat neutralized, Siena kept investing in the University, which allowed for new degree programs and faculties to be established, making it a top educational institution.
Advantages of Studying in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
Historic and Supportive Learning Environment
- Siena is a beautiful, historic city with a vibrant student life.
- Smaller class sizes compared to larger universities, allowing for more personalized attention.
- Strong student support services, including tutoring and career guidance.
Focus on Innovation & Technology
- Integration of modern medical technologies in teaching (e.g., virtual dissection tools, AI in diagnostics).
- Partnerships with tech companies and research centers.
International Environment
- Offers an English-taught MD program (6 years) for international students.
- Diverse student community with students from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Opportunities for student exchanges and internships abroad.
Strong Clinical Training
- Affiliation with the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), a major university hospital, providing hands-on experience.
- Early patient contact and clinical rotations in various specialties.
- Opportunities to train in well-equipped simulation labs.
Focus on Innovation & Technology
- Integration of modern medical technologies in teaching (e.g., virtual dissection tools, AI in diagnostics).
- Partnerships with tech companies and research centers.
Latest Notifications:
Departments And Course Duration in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
The Università degli Studi di Siena, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia offers a 6-year single-cycle degree program in Medicine and Surgery (equivalent to an MBBS in other countries). The program is taught in Italian (for domestic students) and English (for international students).
Course Duration & Structure
-
- Degree Awarded: Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia (equivalent to an MD/MBBS).
- Language Options:
-
- Corso in Lingua Italiana (Italian-taught, for EU/non-EU students).
- Corso in Lingua Inglese (English-taught, for international students).
Program Phases
-
Pre-Clinical:
-
-
- Basic medical sciences (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Pathology, Microbiology).
- Introduction to clinical skills.
-
-
Clinical Years:
-
-
- Clinical rotations in hospitals (Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, etc.).
- Final year includes a 6-month internship (tirocinio pratico-valutativo).
-
-
Final Exam:
-
- Esame di Stato (State Exam) for medical licensure in Italy.
Departments & Teaching Areas
The Faculty of Medicine at Siena is organized into multiple departments that oversee teaching and research.
Pre-Clinical & Basic Sciences:
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies (Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology).
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine (Anatomy, Histology, Embryology).
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology (Physiology, Neuroscience).
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery, and Neurosciences (Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology).
Clinical & Surgical Departments:
- Department of Internal Medicine & Specialties (Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology).
- Department of Surgical & Diagnostic Sciences (General Surgery, Orthopedics, Radiology).
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology.
- Department of Neurology, Psychiatry & Rehabilitation.
- Department of Public Health & Infectious Diseases (Epidemiology, Preventive Medicine).
Research & Advanced Medicine:
- Center for Molecular Medicine (Cancer research, Genomics).
- Center for Nanotechnology & Drug Delivery.
- Simulation Medicine Center (Clinical skills training).
Clinical Training & Affiliated Hospitals
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS) – Main teaching hospital.
- Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte (University Hospital).
- Regional hospitals in Tuscany for specialized rotations.
Admission Requirements (English Program)
- Entrance Exam (IMAT – International Medical Admissions Test) for EU & non-EU students.
- High School Diploma (with strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
- English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if non-native speaker).
Advantages for MBBS Students
EU-recognized degree (allows practice in Europe after licensing).
Early clinical exposure (from Year 3).
Affordable tuition (~€3,500–€4,000/year for non-EU students).
Research opportunities in cutting-edge medical fields.
The 6-year Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Siena provides a strong foundation in medical sciences, extensive clinical training, and research opportunities. The English-taught option makes it attractive for international students seeking an EU medical degree.
Latest Updates:
Facilities And Infrastructure in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
The Università degli Studi di Siena, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia (University of Siena, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery) offers modern facilities and infrastructure to support medical education, research, and clinical training.
1. Teaching & Learning Facilities
Lecture Halls & Classrooms
- Spacious, tech-equipped auditoriums with multimedia projectors, live-streaming capabilities, and recording systems.
- Interactive classrooms for small-group problem-based learning (PBL).
Medical Libraries
- Central Medical Library (Biblioteca di Medicina e Chirurgia)
- Extensive collection of medical textbooks, journals, and e-resources (PubMed, Scopus, etc.).
- Quiet study zones, group study rooms, and 24/7 online access.
- Access to anatomical atlases, virtual dissection tools, and medical databases.
E-Learning Platforms
- Moodle-based online portal for lecture notes, assignments, and exam resources.
- Virtual labs for remote learning in histology, pathology, and biochemistry.
2. Laboratories & Research Centers
Pre-Clinical Labs
- Anatomy Lab – Cadaver dissection, plastinated specimens, and 3D virtual anatomy tables (e.g., Anatomage).
- Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Lab – PCR, electrophoresis, and cell culture facilities.
- Physiology Lab – Simulations for cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurophysiology experiments.
Advanced Research Centers
- Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM) – Focus on cancer, genetics, and personalized medicine.
- Nanotechnology Lab – Research on drug delivery systems and biomedical engineering.
- Simulation Medicine Center – High-fidelity mannequins for emergency medicine, surgery, and ICU training.
3. Clinical Training Facilities
University Hospital (AOUS – Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte)
- 1,000+ beds, covering all major specialties.
- Simulation-based training in:
- Clinical Skills Lab – Suturing, IV placement, patient communication.
- Surgical Simulation Unit – Laparoscopic and robotic surgery trainers.
Affiliated Teaching Hospitals
- Regional hospitals in Tuscany for pediatrics, neurology, and rural medicine rotations.
4. Student Support & Campus Life
Student Services
- International Office – Visa support, Italian language courses, and orientation.
- Career Guidance – Residency match assistance (for Italy/EU).
- Tutoring & Mentoring – Peer-led study groups for challenging subjects.
Campus Amenities
- Medical Student Lounge – Dedicated study and relaxation spaces.
- Cafeterias & Libraries – Affordable meals and 24/7 study access during exams.
- Sports Facilities – Gym, swimming pool, and student sports clubs.
5. Technology & Innovation
- Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR) for surgical training and anatomy visualization.
- AI & Big Data in Medicine – Courses on machine learning for diagnostics.
- Telemedicine Training – Exposure to remote patient monitoring systems.
The University of Siena’s medical faculty provides state-of-the-art labs, simulation centers, a top-tier teaching hospital, and digital learning tools, ensuring students receive a modern, hands-on medical education.
Official site For Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia: Click Here
Required Documents For Admission in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
- A birth certificate as an age proof is mandatory.
- 10th and 12th class mark sheets.
- Passport size photo.
- Valid passport with 18 months of validity.
- Student VISA is mandatory.
- Report of HIV test.
- Bank statements are required for the submission.
- Medical certificates for fitness proofs.
- Invitation letter from concerned university.
- Approved documents from the Ministry External Affairs.
- Legalized papers from the embassy of Italy.
Eligibility Criteria For Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
- Age: The student should be at least 17 years old
- Academic Qualification: Students must have completed their secondary education or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects.
- Language Proficiency: International students must be proficient in the Italian language as it is the language of instruction for the MBBS program in Italy.
- Entrance Exam: Students must clear the entrance exam conducted by the respective university.
- Health Checkup: International students must pass a medical examination to ensure they are fit to pursue MBBS studies
Admission Process For Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
- Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
- Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
- Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
- Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
- Travel to Italy: After receiving the student visa, students can finalize their travel plans and prepare for departure.
Get More Details About The Colleges in Ireland: Click Here
Benefits of Studying in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
1. Globally Recognized Medical Degree
- EU-accredited degree (Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia), valid across Europe and internationally.
- Listed in WHO’s World Directory of Medical Schools, enabling graduates to take licensing exams (USMLE, PLAB, etc.).
2. English-Taught Program (For International Students)
- 6-year MD program in English (no Italian required for admission).
- Italian language courses offered for better integration & clinical practice.
3. Early Clinical Exposure & Hands-On Training
- Clinical rotations start from Year 3 at AOUS University Hospital (1,000+ beds).
- Simulation labs (Anatomy 3D tables, surgical simulators) before real patient work.
4. Strong Research Opportunities
- Focus on molecular medicine, neuroscience, and AI in healthcare.
- Student involvement in EU-funded projects and publications.
5. High Residency Match Rates (For Italy/EU)
- Strong alumni network and career support for Italian residency (SSM) or international matches.
- Partnerships with German, Swiss, and UK hospitals for elective rotations.
6. Student-Friendly Environment
- Small class sizes (better professor-student ratio than large universities).
- Safe, historic city with vibrant student life (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
7. Erasmus+ & International Exchanges
- Study abroad semesters at partner universities in Europe, USA, and Asia.
- Erasmus scholarships available for clinical rotations abroad.
8. Modern Facilities
- Virtual dissection tables (Anatomage), robotic surgery trainers, AI diagnostics labs.
- 24/7 medical library with vast digital resources.
9. Work Opportunities After Graduation
- EU graduates can work in Italy/Germany without extra exams.
- Non-EU graduates eligible for 1-year job-search visa in Italy.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Università degli Studi di Siena Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia
Indian students studying at Università degli Studi di Siena, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia enjoy several unique benefits and privileges, making it an attractive destination for medical education in Europe.
1. English-Taught MBBS (MD) Program
No Italian language requirement for admission (English-medium program available).
Italian language courses provided for better clinical communication during rotations.
2. Globally Valid Medical Degree
EU-recognized degree (eligible for PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), or NEXT (India) after clearing respective licensing exams).
WHO & NMC (formerly MCI) approved, allowing graduates to practice in India after clearing the FMGE/NExT exam.
3. Early Clinical Exposure
Hospital rotations start from Year 3 at AOUS University Hospital (1,000+ beds).
Simulation-based training (virtual dissection, surgical skills lab) before real patient work.
4.Indian Student Support
Active Indian student community (help with visas, accommodation, cultural integration).
Indian food/mess options available in Siena.
Assistance with documentation (police clearance, NMC eligibility certificates).
5. Safe & Welcoming Environment
Low crime rate (safer than many big Indian cities).
Historic, student-friendly city with UNESCO World Heritage status.
FAQ’s
Are there scholarships or accommodation services available for students?
Yes, students can apply for scholarships and accommodation through the DSU Toscana, the Regional Agency for the Right to University Study. Eligibility is based on financial need and academic merit.
Are there international collaborations associated with the Medicine and Surgery program?
Yes, the University of Siena has established various international collaborations to enhance the educational experience and provide students with broader medical and engineering perspectives.
What are career options after graduation?
- Italy: Residency (SSM exam) or work (B2 Italian required).
- EU: Practice in Germany/Sweden after language exams.
- India: Clear FMGE/NExT to practice.
- USA/UK: Eligible for USMLE/PLAB.
How is student life in Siena?
- Safe, walkable city with vibrant student communities.
- Indian Student Association: Organizes cultural events.
- Travel hub: Easy access to Florence, Rome, and beaches.
What is the teaching style?
- Years 1–3: Theory + lab work (anatomy, biochemistry, etc.).
- Years 4–6: Clinical rotations (hospital wards, surgery, pediatrics).
- Exams: Oral + written (no rote learning; focus on problem-solving).
Also Check: