Politecnico di Torino has specific language requirements for its programs, depending on whether they are taught in Italian or English. Here’s a breakdown of the language requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree Programs (Laurea)

• Programs Taught in Italian:
  • Italian Language Proficiency: Students applying for bachelor’s programs taught in Italian must demonstrate proficiency in Italian, usually at a B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
  • Accepted language certificates include:
    • CILS (Certificate of Italian as a Foreign Language)
    • CELI (Certificate of Knowledge of Italian Language)
    • PLIDA (Proficiency Certificate in Italian Language)
• Programs Taught in English:
  • English Language Proficiency: For programs taught in English, students must demonstrate proficiency at a B2 level or higher (CEFR).
  • Accepted English language certificates include:
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 or 6.0, depending on the program
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 72 (internet-based)
    • Cambridge English Qualifications: Minimum of First Certificate in English (FCE)

2. Master’s Degree Programs (Laurea Magistrale)

• Programs Taught in Italian:
  • Italian Language Proficiency: A B2 level of Italian is typically required. Students may need to provide certificates like CILS, CELI, or PLIDA.
• Programs Taught in English:
  • English Language Proficiency: A minimum of B2 level (CEFR) is required for admission to master’s programs taught in English.
  • Accepted certificates include:
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 or 6.5, depending on the program
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 72-90 (internet-based)
    • Cambridge English Qualifications: First Certificate (FCE) or higher
  • Some programs may require a higher score (e.g., IELTS 6.5 for certain engineering programs).

3. PhD Programs

• English Language Proficiency: For PhD programs taught in English, a B2 level or higher is required, but some programs may require more advanced proficiency (such as IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90+).
• Italian Language Proficiency: For programs conducted in Italian, students must demonstrate sufficient Italian proficiency (usually B2 level).

4. Waivers and Exceptions

• In some cases, students who have completed their prior education in English (such as in an English-speaking country or an English-taught program) may be exempted from providing an English language certificate.
• Students who have completed their studies in Italy or Italian-speaking institutions may not need to submit an Italian language certificate.

How to apply

Politecnico di Torino offers a wide range of specialized programs primarily in engineering, architecture, and design. Here are some of its notable course specialities:

1. Engineering

• Aerospace Engineering: This program focuses on aerodynamics, propulsion, space systems, and aircraft design. It is one of the top programs in Italy, closely linked with the aerospace industry.
• Automotive Engineering: Located in the industrial hub of Turin, known for its automotive industry, this program covers vehicle design, powertrain systems, hybrid and electric vehicles, and automotive electronics. It has strong partnerships with companies like Fiat (Stellantis) and Ferrari.
• Mechanical Engineering: Covers thermodynamics, mechanics of materials, robotics, and manufacturing technologies. This is one of the university's flagship programs with broad applications in industry and manufacturing.
• Civil and Environmental Engineering: Includes the study of structural engineering, geotechnics, hydrology, transportation engineering, and sustainable infrastructure. It has a strong focus on environmental impact and sustainable development.
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering: Focuses on power systems, signal processing, automation, and telecommunications. Politecnico di Torino is known for research in smart grids and renewable energy systems.
• Telecommunications Engineering: A highly specialized field that covers networking, wireless communications, signal transmission, and information security. It is a cutting-edge program with ties to major tech companies.
• Energy Engineering: This program specializes in sustainable energy solutions, renewable energy systems, and energy-efficient technologies. It integrates environmental concerns with engineering solutions.
• Computer Engineering: Politecnico di Torino is a leader in software development, artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and cybersecurity. The program focuses on creating innovative technologies for various industries.
• Mechatronics Engineering: Combines mechanical, electronic, and computer engineering to develop advanced automated systems. This program is essential for industries like robotics, automotive, and aerospace.
• Biomedical Engineering: Focuses on the intersection of medicine and engineering, covering topics such as medical devices, bioinformatics, and biomechanics.

2. Architecture and Design

• Architecture: Politecnico di Torino is one of the top schools in Italy for architecture and urban planning. The program emphasizes sustainable architecture, urban design, and heritage conservation.
• Design and Visual Communication: This program focuses on industrial design, product design, and visual communication, combining artistic elements with engineering precision. It integrates aspects of user-centered design and sustainability.

3. Urban Planning

• Urban and Regional Planning: The program deals with the planning of cities, infrastructure development, sustainable urbanization, and urban renewal. It is closely aligned with current trends in smart cities and sustainable urban development.

4. Nanotechnology and Materials Science

• Nanotechnologies for ICT and Bioengineering: This program is at the intersection of nanoscience, materials engineering, and biotechnology. It focuses on nanomaterials and their applications in electronics, medicine, and energy.
• Materials Engineering: Specializes in the development and application of advanced materials in industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics.

5. Management Engineering

• Engineering Management: This program is designed to integrate engineering principles with business and management. It covers project management, logistics, and operations management in industrial settings.
• Production and Logistics Engineering: Focuses on supply chain management, manufacturing processes, and industrial logistics, preparing students for managerial roles in production-heavy industries.

6. Environmental Engineering

• Environmental and Land Engineering: Specializes in environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and natural hazard mitigation. It combines engineering solutions with environmental sustainability principles.

7. Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence

• Cybersecurity: Politecnico di Torino offers cutting-edge courses in information security, network security, and data privacy, making it a top destination for cybersecurity studies.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: This program focuses on AI algorithms, data science, neural networks, and deep learning, preparing students for industries reliant on AI solutions.

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Politecnico di Torino has several distinguished professors who are recognized for their contributions to engineering, technology, architecture, and design. Some top professors are noted for their research impact, industry collaborations, and academic leadership in their fields. While there are many notable faculty members, here are a few who are widely recognized:

1. Professor Sergio Rinaldi

• Field: Control Engineering and Automation
• Notable Contributions: Professor Rinaldi is a leading figure in control systems and automation, particularly known for his work in nonlinear dynamics, complex systems, and their applications in engineering and biology. He has published extensively and collaborated with industrial partners to develop innovative solutions in automation.

2. Professor Paolo Velardi

• Field: Mechanical Engineering and Robotics
• Notable Contributions: Paolo Velardi is a renowned professor in the field of mechanics and robotics, with a strong focus on the development of autonomous systems and advanced robotics for both industrial and academic applications. He is involved in several international research projects.

3. Professor Andrea Castelletti

• Field: Environmental Engineering and Water Resources Management
• Notable Contributions: Andrea Castelletti is an expert in the sustainable management of water resources, with research interests in climate change, water system optimization, and decision-support systems. He has been involved in many high-impact projects addressing environmental challenges and sustainable engineering.

4. Professor Francesca Verra

• Field: Aerospace Engineering
• Notable Contributions: Francesca Verra is a leading professor in aerospace engineering with research focusing on aerodynamics, space vehicle design, and propulsion systems. She has contributed to many aerospace projects, working with organizations like ESA (European Space Agency) and NASA.

5. Professor Riccardo Zecchina

• Field: Theoretical Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Notable Contributions: Professor Zecchina is known for his pioneering work in machine learning, data science, and the intersection of statistical physics and computer science. His contributions to artificial intelligence and optimization algorithms have been recognized worldwide.

6. Professor Giuseppe Arena

• Field: Telecommunications Engineering
• Notable Contributions: Professor Arena has made significant contributions to wireless communications, signal processing, and the development of next-generation telecommunications systems. He is widely cited in academic and industry research related to 5G networks and digital signal transmission.

7. Professor Marina Cavalleri

• Field: Architecture and Urban Design
• Notable Contributions: Marina Cavalleri is a well-regarded professor in sustainable architecture, urban design, and heritage conservation. Her work in urban planning and architectural theory is recognized both in Italy and internationally, with projects focused on smart cities and sustainable urban development.

Politecnico di Torino has not directly produced Nobel Prize laureates, but the university has strong ties to Nobel-winning scientists and research, particularly through its collaborations and contributions to the fields of physics, engineering, and technology. Some notable connections include:

1. Ties with Nobel Laureates

• Giulio Natta: Although not directly from Politecnico di Torino, Natta was a significant figure in Italian science and won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1963) for his work on polymers, which had a profound impact on industrial processes. His work and legacy have influenced the study of materials science and chemical engineering at institutions like Politecnico di Torino.

2. Research Contributions in Nobel-Worthy Fields

• Politecnico di Torino is renowned for its cutting-edge research in areas such as nanotechnology, energy systems, sustainable technology, and telecommunications, all of which are fields with past and ongoing Nobel-winning research. The university frequently collaborates with leading research institutes across Europe, contributing to advancements that may eventually lead to Nobel Prize recognition.

3. International Collaborations

• The university’s involvement in large-scale international research projects in areas such as particle physics, aerospace engineering, and sustainable energy places its research and faculty in close collaboration with institutions where Nobel-winning research has taken place, such as CERN and other European laboratories.

Although Politecnico di Torino does not have its own Nobel laureates, its contributions to science and technology through collaborative projects and research have significantly impacted fields that are often recognized by the Nobel Committee.