Learning Methodologies & Approaches
Unicollege is founded on the principle of academic freedom, thus assigning, to each instructor, personal and academic flexibility in the delivery of lessons, courses, and proposed programs. However, its unique presence in UNESCO cities such as Florence and Mantua, as well as the centers of prestigious capitals such as Milan and Turin provide a unique learning opportunity, whereby the city itself becomes the class.
Candidates studying at Unicollege will therefore live a learning experience that hybridizes:
- Immersive learning: taking advantage of local peculiarities, and learning in workshops, businesses, venues, squares, selected locations, and tours that exacerbate authentic knowhows, crafts, knowledge, experience, and professionalism.
- Complementary learning: as a study abroad experience taking place in the Italian context, the very cradle of humanistic knowledge and culture, courses at Unicollege tend to reiterate this complementary and intersectional approach across disciplines and knowhows, and to deliver programs that hybridize subjects, areas, and disciplines. As a result, most courses hold a dual code (i.e., cross-listed) that exacerbate the very humanistic approach to juxtapose, enrich, and complement human knowledge and discovery.
- Practice-based learning: in addition to the immersive learning approach described above, Unicollege learning experiences are often complemented with a practice-based component that provides the actual, active participation of students – who are involved in organically practical sessions, where they do, make, touch, sense, experience as part of their learning process.
- Self-empowering learning: each school at Unicollege holds the name of an inspiring character that changed lives on both a local and universal level – i.e. Pietro Leopoldo was the world’s first political modern leader to abolish death penalty; Artemisia Gentileschi was the world’s first official female artist; Maria Montessori is considered the world’s pioneer of modern pedagogy.
This gender-balanced nomenclative approach exacerbates the intent of Unicollege to provide inspiring references to international candidates that seek inspiration and sense of universal human and intellectual connection. In this sense, and through trained faculty, Unicollege seeks to spread a learning experience that is self-empowering, self-definitional, and intellectually inspiring, drawing from unique characters that changed the history of the world forever.
A taste of Unicollege’s Learning Experiences
At Unicollege, students have the opportunity to engage in a rich and diverse academic journey through its pre-college programs, which encompass 10 schools, 24 departments, and over 400 courses offered across alternating semesters. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cater to a wide range of interests and academic goals, featuring introductory STEM classes such as chemistry, information technology, biology, mathematics, economics, and business. Additionally, students can explore the humanities through courses in arts, culture, and visual arts, as well as general education courses like English composition, general history, and creative writing. Every course is taught by international professionals who are graduates of prestigious global institutions, including Harvard University (USA), Leiden University (Netherlands), Central Saint Martins (UK), Université de Strasbourg (France), Università La Sapienza (Italy), Universität Hamburg (Germany), and Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). This exceptional faculty brings a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives, ensuring that students receive a world-class education that prepares them for future academic and professional success. Whether aspiring to deepen their understanding of the sciences, immerse themselves in the arts, or enhance their general academic skills, Unicollege provides a comprehensive and inspiring environment for pre-college students to thrive.
Studying at Unicollege means immersing yourself in a highly prestigious and historically rich environment, nestled in Italy and Bologna—the birthplace of the first university in 1088. Students benefit from a vibrant, international, and stimulating context where instructors are multilingual professionals fluent in up to 10 languages and have been educated at world-renowned institutions such as Harvard University (USA), Leiden University (Netherlands), Central Saint Martins (UK), Université de Strasbourg (France), Università La Sapienza (Italy), Universität Hamburg (Germany), and Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Additionally, candidates will engage with international peers who speak two to three foreign languages and learn from visiting professors hailing from over 60 countries worldwide. This dynamic academic setting is enhanced by studying in UNESCO-listed cities and on campuses that boast thousand-year-old libraries, bookshops, and cultural venues. Such an environment not only fosters academic excellence but also enriches students’ cultural and personal growth, providing a unique and unparalleled educational experience that prepares them for global success.
At Unicollege, our pre-college program supports students in this transitional phase using advanced learning theories and approaches. Our Immersive Learning model deeply connects students to Italian culture through workshops, business visits, cultural exploration, and guided tours, offering hands-on experience and professional insights. Through Complementary Learning, our interdisciplinary courses blend humanities, sciences, and technical studies, enriching students’ perspectives. Practice-based Learning emphasizes real-world application—students learn by doing, whether in labs, art studios, or business projects. Together, these approaches create a dynamic environment that fosters exploration, creativity, and growth, equipping students for future academic success.
With decades of experience in higher education, Unicollege has developed a comprehensive and robust program to support students with learning disabilities, seamlessly integrated into its pre-college offerings. Understanding the diverse needs of all learners, Unicollege provides access to qualified tutors who are specially trained to assist students in overcoming academic challenges and enhancing their learning experiences. Additionally, the university continually updates its policies and practices to comply with the latest regulations, ensuring that every student has equitable access to its pre-college programs. This commitment to inclusivity means that regardless of individual learning requirements, all candidates can participate fully and benefit from the high-quality education Unicollege is renowned for. By fostering an environment of support and accessibility, Unicollege ensures that every student, regardless of their learning needs, can thrive and achieve their academic and personal goals within the pre-college program.
At Unicollege, diversity and inclusion are foundational pillars that ensure every student feels valued and supported within a vibrant international community. Drawing on a robust international experience, Unicollege embraces students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment where different perspectives and cultures thrive. The institution adheres to comprehensive regulations inspired by Italian, European, and American practices, including standards such as Title IX, which safeguard against discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all students. This commitment is further reinforced by a highly sensitive and dedicated team that is trained to address the unique needs of each individual, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Whether navigating cultural differences or addressing specific accessibility requirements, students enrolling in Unicollege’s pre-college programs benefit from a supportive framework that champions diversity and cultivates an environment of mutual respect and understanding. This dedication to inclusion not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students to become compassionate and globally-minded citizens.