Objectives and strategies
UNIRSM prioritises internationalisation as a cornerstone of its academic and research activities, viewing it as essential for expanding its global influence and strengthening relationships with other countries. In 2020, the Republic of San Marino became part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA, formerly the Bologna Process). As a member of EHEA, San Marino includes the following key aspects:
- Incorporating EHEA guidelines and tools, emphasising autonomy for higher education institutions and adherence to the principles of Magna Charta Universitatum.
- Promoting international mobility of students, professors, researchers, and administrative staff.
- Fostering national and international cooperation.
- Supporting lifelong learning programmes.
- Upholding freedom of research and teaching.
- Ensuring autonomy of governance Bodies within higher education institutions.
- Involving students and administrative staff in governance Bodies.
- Emphasising the social dimension of higher education
UNIRSM actively engages in international cooperation through numerous agreements with universities in Italy and abroad. These agreements encompass a wide range of activities, including the organization of University-level courses, postgraduate programmes, and advanced specialization studies. They also facilitate the mobility of students and professors between institutions, fostering academic exchange and collaboration.
In 2024, through an agreement between the San Marino and Italian governments based on Article 44 of the Erasmus regulation preamble, San Marino officially joined the Erasmus Plus program. In the same year, the University of San Marino obtained the ECHE (Erasmus Charter for Higher Education) and signed an implementation agreement with INDIRE, the Italian national agency managing the Erasmus Plus program, for the administration of international mobility and research projects.
ECHE and EPS paper
The ECHE (Erasmus Charter for Higher Education) is a certification – issued by the European Commission – through which partner institutions commit to respecting the principles of quality and inclusion in international mobility, effectively creating a common European space for learning and growth.
The basic principles guaranteed by the ECHE charter are:
- Quality mobility for students and staff, promoting training and professional experiences abroad.
- Equitable and inclusive access to all the opportunities offered by the Erasmus+ Programme, without discrimination.
- Transparency in managing international activities, thanks to clear procedures and standards of excellence.
- European collaboration to foster innovation and internationalisation of higher education.
Through the ECHE and the Erasmus Policy Statement (EPS) 2021-2027, the University of the Republic of San Marino is committed to respecting the fundamental principles of the programme such as inclusion, transparency and non-discrimination and to promoting the participation of individuals with fewer opportunities, environmentally friendly practices and digital management of mobility.
International Networks
In terms of European integration, the University has attained membership in several prestigious international associations. These include:
- EUA – European Universities Association
- IAU – International Association of Universities
- NUSCT extension – Network of Universities of Small States and Countries
- UniAdrion – Association of Universities of the Adriatic-Ionian Area
These memberships underscore the University commitment to aligning with European standards and enhancing its global academic presence.
The internationalization strategy at the University is shaped by key figures including the Rector, general director, academic delegates for international affairs, and the Research Centre for International Relations. These stakeholders collaborate closely to define and implement strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the University's global presence and academic cooperation.
Central to this strategy are the Internationalization Office and the Student’s and Erasmus Office, along with the departmental representatives responsible for international mobility. Their collective efforts ensure seamless integration of international experiences into all Degree Programmes offered by the University.
International agreements
Furthermore, the University offers elective mobility programmes with international universities that have signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These programmes provide additional opportunities for students and faculty to engage in collaborative projects, research initiatives, and academic exchanges abroad.
In addition to these operational aspects, delegates of the rector for international relations actively participate in and monitor major international events. This involvement ensures that the University remains abreast of global developments in higher education and effectively contributes to international forums and organisations.
Contact us
Internationalization Office
international@unirsm.sm
