UNI-Cribiù Giorgio, Ajdini Kevin, Bowen Giamper

Differences between Italian and American universities

Cribiù Giorgio, Ajdini Kevin, Bowen Giamper

Italy: In Italian universities, students choose a specific specialization from the beginning, such as Economics, Medicine or Engineering. This means that the courses are very targeted from the first year, without a general basis. USA: In the United States, however, students start with general subjects, regardless of the specialization they choose later. In the first two years, they also study subjects such as history, mathematics and literature, and then choose their “major” (specialization) based on their interests.

Course Structure

Duration of Studies

Italy: In Italy, the standard path for the degree is 3 years for the Bachelor's degree and, if you want to continue, 2 years for the Master's degree. Some courses (like Medicine) take more years, but generally the path is clear and direct. USA: In the United States, the basic degree lasts 4 years. Afterwards, if you want to continue with a Master, you need another 1-2 years. The doctorate can also vary greatly, depending on the scope and duration of the research.

Italy: In Italy, most university courses are open access, so anyone with a diploma can enroll. Only for some courses, such as Medicine or Architecture, is it necessary to pass a very selective entrance test.USA: In America, access to universities is more competitive. Students must submit their high school grades, write an “application” with personal essays, submit letters of recommendation, and often also demonstrate participation in various extracurricular activities (such as sports or volunteering).

Admission

University life

Italy: In Italy, it is common for students to live at home or in apartments in the city and commute to class. Residential campuses, where students live on campus, are less common. USA: In the United States, university life very often takes place on campus. Most universities have dormitories, canteens and many activities for students. Living on campus also encourages socialization and participation in university events and clubs.

Italy: Italian university tends to have a more theoretical approach, where most learning takes place through lectures. Students listen and take notes, and there is less interaction or discussion than in the American system. USA: In America, however, lessons are often more interactive. Students participate in discussions, group work and projects. There is a greater focus on practice and the development of applied skills, even in the early years.

Teaching Method

Exams and Assessments

Italy: In Italy, the final grade is mainly based on the final exams of each course. Often there are only one or two exams per subject, and the weight of the final grade is high. USA: In the United States, the system is more fragmented: students are assessed throughout the semester with quizzes, homework, projects and partial exams. This allows students to know how they are doing and improve if necessary before the end of the course.

Italy: Italian universities are more economically accessible. Taxes vary based on family income, and the figures are often much lower than in the United States. This makes university accessible to more people. USA: In America, tuition fees are very high, especially for private universities. Many students must take out loans or receive grants to cover costs. This high expense is often a major concern for American families.

Cost of University

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Cribiù Giorgio, Ajdini Kevin, Bowen Giamper