University of PaviaHarvey Medicine and Surgery Course
Join the legacy of Italy's pioneering English-taught medical program. Study at a world-renowned historic university, offering elite clinical training in a perfect, close-knit student city.
Pavia at a Glance
The Harvey Medicine and Surgery Course, launched in 2009, was the very first English-taught medical degree in Italy. Named after the 17th-century physician William Harvey, it embodies a bridge between historic academic tradition and modern medical science. This 6-year single-cycle Master's program is designed to create physicians with a comprehensive and humanistic approach to medicine, capable of practicing in a diverse and globalized world. It's one of the most prestigious and sought-after medical programs in Europe.
Educational Philosophy
The Harvey Course employs a "Pavia-blended" teaching model. It combines solid traditional lectures from expert faculty with modern, interactive learning methods. This includes small-group problem-based learning (PBL), practical skills workshops, and inter-professional activities. The philosophy is to foster deep understanding and critical thinking, rather than rote memorization, preparing students for the complexities of clinical practice.
Key Competencies Developed
- Strong Scientific Grounding: In-depth knowledge of basic and clinical sciences.
- Advanced Clinical Skills: Extensive hands-on training in world-class hospitals from the first year.
- Global Health Perspective: Curriculum includes topics on international health and tropical medicine.
- Research Proficiency: Opportunities for involvement in cutting-edge research projects.
- Humanistic Approach: Emphasis on communication, ethics, and patient-centered care.
Year 1: Fundamentals of Medicine & Science
Establishes the scientific basis of medicine, from physics to cellular biology, alongside an early introduction to clinical skills and humanities.
- • Medical Physics
- • Chemistry & Biochemistry I
- • Biology & Genetics
- • Human Anatomy I
- • Histology & Embryology
- • First Contact with Patients
Year 2: Body Systems and Functions
A comprehensive exploration of how the human body works, covering major organ systems and the molecular basis of function.
- • Human Anatomy II
- • Biochemistry II
- • Physiology
- • Molecular & Cellular Pathology
- • Microbiology & Immunology
- • Clinical Skills II
Year 3: Principles of Disease & Clinical Clerkships
The bridge to full-time clinical practice, focusing on pathology, pharmacology, and the start of mandatory hospital clerkships.
- • Systemic Pathology I
- • Pharmacology
- • Clinical & Molecular Biology
- • Internal Medicine Clerkship I
- • Surgical Clerkship I
- • Medical Statistics
Year 4: Core Clinical Disciplines
Systematic study and clinical application in major fields like cardiology, pneumology, and neurology.
- • Systemic Pathology II
- • Cardiovascular & Respiratory Diseases
- • Gastroenterology & Endocrinology
- • Hematology & Oncology
- • Diagnostic Imaging
- • Public Health
Year 5: Specialized Medicine & Surgery
Intensive clinical rotations in a wide range of specialized areas, developing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic skills.
- • Neurology & Neurosurgery
- • Psychiatry
- • Pediatrics & Genetics
- • OB/GYN
- • Orthopedics & Rheumatology
- • Urology & Nephrology
Year 6: Professional Practice, Thesis & Electives
Final year dedicated to public health, emergency medicine, legal aspects, elective rotations (often abroad), and the final research thesis.
- • Emergency Medicine
- • Legal & Occupational Medicine
- • Clinical Pharmacology
- • General Practice (GP)
- • Elective Internships
- • Final Thesis
The Clinical & Academic Environment
Learn within historic university walls and train at three world-class, specialized research hospitals (IRCCS).
Pavia provides an exceptional clinical environment. Students rotate through three different IRCCS (Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care), each a leader in its field.
- Policlinico San Matteo: A major general and transplant hospital.
- Mondino Foundation: A top-tier institute for neuroscience and neurology.
- Maugeri Foundation: A leader in rehabilitation and occupational medicine.
The University of Pavia is not just a place to study; it's a community. Its unique system of historic colleges ("collegi") provides accommodation, dining, tutoring, and a rich social and cultural life, much like Oxford or Cambridge.
- Home to Nobel laureates like Camillo Golgi and Alessandro Volta.
- Over 20 historic colleges offering a unique residential experience.
- Countless libraries, including the Teresiana with ancient manuscripts.
- A campus integrated into the fabric of a beautiful, historic city.
A Medical Student's Life in Pavia
Enjoy the ideal student experience in a city that is safe, affordable, walkable, and entirely centered around its university.
The renowned college system offers an all-inclusive living experience. Alternatively, students can find affordable rooms in shared apartments throughout the compact city, almost all within walking or biking distance of the university.
Cost: €300 - €500/month
Pavia has a vibrant social scene centered on its main squares, with countless cafes and bars offering "aperitivo." The city is famous for its risotto and wines. Life is relaxed, safe, and community-oriented.
Cost: €200 - €350/month
Located just 35km south of Milan, Pavia offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful study environment with a major European metropolis just a 30-minute train ride away for weekend trips, shopping, and international travel.
Train to Milan: ~€4
The Application Journey
Your step-by-step guide and key contacts to apply to the Harvey Course.
Admission to the Harvey Course is highly competitive. A strong IMAT score is paramount for securing one of the coveted places.
Step 1: Pre-enrollment on Universitaly (April-July)
Mandatory for all non-EU candidates. You must select the University of Pavia as your first choice.
Step 2: Register for IMAT (August-September)
Register for the exam via the official testing portal. The exam is typically held in mid-September.
Step 3: Check Rankings & Enroll (October)
Successful candidates in the national ranking must follow Pavia's specific enrollment procedures promptly.
Step 4 (Non-EU): Apply for Student Visa
Use the admission letter to apply for a Type D student visa at your local Italian consulate.
Contact Details
admission.harvey@unipv.it
harveymedicine.cdl.unipv.it