The European University Institute (EUI) is a unique international centre for doctorate and post-doctorate studies and research, situated in the Tuscan hills overlooking Florence.
Since its establishment 40 years ago by the six founding members of the then European Communities, the EUI has earned a reputation as a leading international academic institution with a European focus. The four departments – Economics, History and Civilization, Law, and Political and Social Sciences – host scholars from more than 60 countries, studying for the Institution’s doctorate or one-year masters in law or European economics.
Furthermore, the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies (RSCAS) focuses on inter-disciplinary, comparative and policy research on the major issues affecting European societies, while the Max Weber Programme for Post-doctoral Studies prepares fellows for a career in academia.
The EUI’s distinctly international environment offers unique academic training, enriches the intellectual experience and provides exceptional opportunities for academics across disciplines and borders.
The departments and centres are housed in 14 historic buildings scattered about the hillside which have undergone extensive renovation in recent years.
Heads of states, leading politicians and professors are regular speakers at the EUI, as part of the Institute’s long-established programme of conferences, workshops and summer schools.
The EUI library boasts around half a million volumes in the Institute’s specialist areas, attracting external researchers with an interest in Europe. The campus also hosts the Historical Archives of the European Union (HAEU), which provides an unparalleled insight into the workings of the European Union. In October 2012 the new premises of the HAEU will be opened at Villa Salviati, cementing the EUI’s commitment to preserving the history of Europe.
The European Commission supports the EUI through the European Union budget.