The Integrated Six-year Degree Programme in Medicine and Surgery at Università Cattolica adopts an integrated teaching approach designed to support progressive clinical training, with an international, multidisciplinary and student-centred focus.
Teaching combines lectures, practical activities, clinical case discussions, laboratory work and small-group sessions, supporting the gradual development of the scientific, clinical and interpersonal skills required for medical practice.
Practical training is a core element of the programme. Clinical activities are progressively introduced across different healthcare settings and are organised in small groups of no more than 10 students, with continuous supervision and ongoing monitoring of students’ skills development. From the early years of the programme, students develop diagnostic, therapeutic and communication skills through increasing direct exposure to professional practice.
Particular emphasis is placed on the programme’s international dimension. Students can take part in mobility programmes, research experiences and Clinical Electives at universities, hospitals and centres of excellence in Europe and worldwide. Activities undertaken abroad may be incorporated into the study plan and recognised as part of the programme.
Teaching is also enriched by opportunities to take part in clinical, translational and epidemiological research, supported by a local environment with a strong focus on scientific and technological innovation.
The programme is delivered in an international and multilingual environment, giving students exposure to different organisational and healthcare models. Learning activities also enable students to strengthen their communication skills in Italian and German, which are particularly relevant to clinical practice in South Tyrol.
Throughout the programme, students have access to tutoring, study support, language support and counselling services, designed to promote personal wellbeing and academic success.