Italy is world-renowned for its exquisite cuisine, high-fashion culture, stunning Mediterranean climate, and iconic tourist landmarks. However, it is the country's breathtaking architectural heritage—spanning from ancient Roman structures to Renaissance masterpieces—that continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.
But if you are an aspiring student considering a Bachelor's in Architecture or a Master's degree, is Italy a viable study destination? Can you navigate your academic life without speaking Italian? Fortunately, there are several high-quality architecture programmes taught entirely in English.
Let’s dive into the details!
How many English-taught architecture universities are there in Italy?
While no singular official database tracks every English-language degree, our curated portals — Bachelorsportal, Mastersportal, and PhDportal — feature a wide range of top-tier Italian universities offering English-taught Architecture curricula. Here are a few notable options to consider:
How do I know if an Architecture degree is taught in English?
All study programmes featured on our platforms are delivered in English, providing a great starting point for your research. We always recommend reviewing the specific English language proficiency requirements for each degree programme during your application process.
If you are exploring course options via university websites, be sure to thoroughly check the programme descriptions to verify that the curriculum is taught in English, as some institutions offer hybrid tracks.
Application requirements for English-taught Architecture degrees in Italy
Application criteria vary significantly across institutions. Generally, the more prestigious the university, the higher the academic and language proficiency expectations for international applicants.
To help you prepare, here are the standard requirements typically needed to enrol in an English-taught architecture degree in Italy:
- Proof of English language proficiency: PTE Academic, IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo test results
- High-school or Bachelor’s diploma, depending on your degree level
- Passport and (two) photos
- Portfolio with previous designs (only for some Masters)
The best English-taught architecture schools in Italy
According to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject, these top-rated Italian institutions are renowned for their exceptional Architecture departments:
- Politecnico di Milano
- Politecnico di Torino
- University of Bologna
- University of Florence
- Università degli studi Roma Tre
For a comprehensive view of all available Architecture degrees, we encourage you to visit the official admissions pages of the universities you are interested in.
You can also consult the Times Higher Education ranking to identify the best-performing architecture universities across Italy.
Becoming an architect in Italy
It is important to note that while your studies may be in English, achieving an advanced level of Italian will be essential for building a successful professional career as an architect within Italy.
English proficiency is a great asset for your education, but it is rarely enough to navigate the local job market. Given that only about 30–35% of the Italian population speaks English fluently, learning the local language is a key step toward professional integration.
If you are passionate about the Italian language and dream of living in 'bella Italia', here is the pathway you need to follow to become a licensed architect:
- Architecture degree from an accredited university or polytechnic school
- Ideally, a professional internship during your studies, but it’s not mandatory
- Pass the State Examination for architects: 4 tests in total
- Register with one of the local Ordine Degli Architetti (Order of Architects)