![The elliptical square of Prato della Valle with a large space with a green island at the center and surrounded by a small canal bordered by two rings of statues in Padova, Italy.](/sites/default/files/marketing-images/program-page-images/university-of-padua-glance.jpg)
About The Program
Put psychology theory into practice at the University of Padua and explore the depth and range of your major. Courses focused in psychology and cognitive science include practical, hands-on work as well as experimental activities. A vibrant college town just east of Venice, Padua features student-filled piazzas and an abundance of cultural, musical, and sporting events. To help you fully experience living as an Italian, you will be assigned a local student buddy. Your local buddy will welcome you, introduce the city and student life, and support you during your stay. Outside of class, take a perfect day trip to Venice—only 30 minutes away by train—or Shakespeare’s Verona.
Where you'll study
The University of Padua is one of Europe’s oldest seats of learning and was home to famous scientists such as Copernicus and Galileo. Today, it continues to be one of the most prominent universities in Italy and in Europe. With campus buildings throughout the historical center, the university is an integral part of the city’s landscape. The university specializes in clinical and health psychology, cognitive sciences, neuroscience, comparative and evolutionary psychology, and mathematical psychology. Welcome days for all incoming exchange students will introduce you to the university and the city of Padua.
media gallery
![Two students on bikes explore the streets of Padua Italy.](/sites/default/files/marketing-images/program-page-images/psychology-and-cognitive-science-in-padua-gallery-1.jpg)
![A marble sculpture of eight figures by Jacopo Sansovino located in the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua, Italy.](/sites/default/files/marketing-images/program-page-images/psychology-and-cognitive-science-in-padua-gallery-2.jpg)
TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES
Optional field trips and activities to introduce the local culture are available through your host university. Most events are free or discounted, but some come with an additional cost not included in UCEAP fees.
![<p>International themed dinner nights</p>](https://uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu/sites/default/files/styles/trips_and_activities_241x300_/public/marketing-images/trips-and-activities/psychology-cognitive-science-padua-ta-1.jpg?itok=SpXguuNo)
International themed dinner nights
![<p>Weekend trips to popular cities like Rome, Milan, and Verona</p>](https://uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu/sites/default/files/styles/trips_and_activities_241x300_/public/marketing-images/trips-and-activities/psychology-cognitive-science-padua-ta-3.jpg?itok=HC7j0Csz)
Weekend trips to popular cities like Rome, Milan, and Verona
![<p>Venetian food and wine tour</p>](https://uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu/sites/default/files/styles/trips_and_activities_241x300_/public/marketing-images/trips-and-activities/psychology-cognitive-science-padua-ta-3.jpg?itok=HC7j0Csz)
Venetian food and wine tour
![<p>Padova charity events and runs</p>](https://uceap.universityofcalifornia.edu/sites/default/files/styles/trips_and_activities_241x300_/public/marketing-images/trips-and-activities/psychology-cognitive-science-padua-ta-4.jpg?itok=JIO8iLmF)
Padova charity events and runs