The second round of applications for the University of Padua’s summer schools is now open!

The University of Padua is pleased to announce that the second call for applications for the summer school programmes is officially open!

In these programmes, participants will embark on a transformative journey where they dive deeper into their discipline, navigate the complexities of global challenges, and connect with peers from different countries and cultures. Developed in a multidisciplinary and international environment, UNIPD’s summer schools allow participants to discover a new country, extend their network, and acquire new skills while enjoying the vibrant Italian summer.

Key application details

• Registration period: From April 15 to May 15, 2026.
• Eligibility: This second call is open to EU and NON-EU applicants who do not require a visa to enter Italy for short stays.
• Arqus advantage: Arqus students enjoy a 50% fee waiver on selected programs (subject to availability, terms apply).

Programme categories

When choosing a summer school, participants can choose between three programme categories: 

1. Experience: Discover the academic life beforehand through UNIPD’s preparatory summer school. 

2. Expand: Grow cross-cutting skills and expand your competencies in addressing some of the most pressing global challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

3. Explore: Deepen your knowledge with specialised programmes tailored to your field of interest.

Featured summer schools

While UNIPD offers a wide array of courses, we are highlighting three innovative programmes currently seeking motivated applicants:

1. Climate smart agriculture: Sustainable transition in agri-food systems

Discover how agriculture can become both a driver of change and a solution to today’s global challenges. This immersive syllabus covers Carbon Farming, Greenhouse Gas monitoring, and Precision Agriculture. Learn from internationally renowned experts and put your knowledge into practice through field visits and collaborative projects. This is also a perfect “sneak peek” for those interested in our Master’s degree in Sustainable Agriculture.

2. Artificial intelligence and justice: A human-centred vision in a global world

Enter the future of law where cutting-edge technology meets global legal challenges. Explore how AI is transforming criminal law, evidence gathering, and predictive justice. The program includes interactive lectures and a simulated crime scene investigation using AI tools. You will dive into the European AI Act and develop skills in legal analysis, statistics, and prompt design in one of Europe’s oldest academic settings.

3. Becoming a clinician scientist: A practical guide to clinical research and skill development

Specially designed for medical students, residents, and PhD candidates, this program bridges the gap between clinical training and research. Gain essential skills in clinical research and AI, learning to apply digital tools like REDCap and MOOVE. Interact with world-class faculty from the Paediatric Emergency Research Network (PERN) and explore everything from precision medicine to health policy.

Explore even more: Beyond these highlights, a diverse range of other programs awaits—from Space Ethics to Circular Economy—allowing you to tailor your summer experience to your specific academic passions. See the full catalogue here.

Why choose UNIPD?

• Hands-on learning: Build practical skills with real-world applications and workshops.
• World-class faculty: Learn from renowned academics and industry leaders from Europe, North America, and beyond.
• International networking: Join a truly global network of students and professionals.
• Cultural immersion: Experience Italy’s rich heritage and academic excellence at a university with over 800 years of history.

Apply now and cultivate change from the roots! Further information and the full list of available courses can be found on the University of Padua website.