Nursing specialization programs in Italy see high demand

Italy has launched new clinical-specialist master's degree programs in nursing sciences, marking a significant reform in advanced professional training. For the 759 available positions across 13 universities, 3,742 applications were received, resulting in a national average of 5.4 candidates per spot.

The most sought-after specialization is critical care and emergency medicine, accounting for 61.1% of applications, followed by primary and community care at 32%, and pediatric and neonatal care at 6.9%. Barbara Mangiacavalli, president of the National Federation of Nursing Professions (Fnopi), stated that these figures confirm the professional maturity of the category and represent a new chapter for Italian healthcare.

In a related development regarding university admissions, the University of Insubria has begun the first ranking slide for the 2026-2027 academic year. Notably, the nursing course in Como reported a closed ranking despite having vacant spots, which will be reallocated according to ministerial decrees. Admissions processes for other health professions, including midwifery and medical radiology, are also underway.