University of Siena

What you'll study

The foundation course combines core academic subject teaching with practical study skills to prepare you for undergraduate study in economics and management. Teaching typically covers introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics, basic quantitative methods and mathematics for economics, principles of management and accounting, and an introduction to business and markets.

Complementary modules focus on academic English and communication, research and study skills, and academic writing to ensure you can operate effectively in an English-medium university environment. Many students also take an Italian language and culture module to support daily life in Siena and facilitate future study in Italy.

• Introductory Economics: supply and demand, market structures, national income basics.
• Quantitative Methods & Mathematics: algebra, calculus basics, statistics for economics.
• Principles of Management & Accounting: organisational functions, financial statements and basic bookkeeping.
• Business Fundamentals: marketing concepts, entrepreneurship and business environment.
• Academic English & Research Skills: essay writing, presentation skills, critical reading and referencing.
• Italian Language & Culture (optional): beginner to intermediate Italian to support daily life and integration.

Assessment is a mix of coursework, written exams, presentations and projects designed to mirror undergraduate assessment styles and to build academic confidence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification equivalent to completion of upper secondary education. The programme is aimed at students who need additional preparation before starting a bachelor's degree.

• Completed secondary-school certificate or transcripts demonstrating satisfactory performance.
• Evidence of English ability — accepted forms include recognised English tests or an institutional assessment/interview; specific score requirements are set by admissions and may be discussed with applicants.
• A personal statement or motivation letter outlining reasons for applying and intended progression to undergraduate study.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview (in person or online) or to sit an entrance test to assess academic readiness in mathematics and English.
• International applicants will be asked to provide certified copies of qualifications and proof of identity; visa requirements should be checked where applicable.

Career prospects

The foundation course itself is a preparatory diploma rather than a terminal professional qualification; its primary outcome is progression to undergraduate degrees in economics, business administration, management, finance or related fields. Successful progression opens typical career pathways including roles in banking and financial services, business and management, consultancy, public administration, marketing and entrepreneurship.

Graduates from subsequent bachelor's and master’s programmes commonly pursue positions such as business analyst, financial analyst, junior consultant, marketing assistant or policy officer, or continue into postgraduate study and research. The foundation course also supports students considering internships and placement opportunities offered through the University of Siena and its regional business networks.

Why study at University of Siena

The University of Siena combines a long academic tradition with contemporary strengths in economics and management teaching. Studying at Siena offers a supportive, student-centred environment with small group teaching on preparatory courses and direct access to departmental academic staff.

• Personalised academic support and pathway guidance to undergraduate programmes in economics and management.
• Opportunities to engage with local businesses and regional institutions for internships and practical learning.
• A compact, historic city environment that makes it easy to access campus services, libraries and student support offices.
• Dedicated services for international students, including language support, orientation and assistance with administrative processes.

Overall, the PUC Foundation Course at the University of Siena is designed to provide the subject knowledge, language skills and academic confidence needed to succeed on an undergraduate economics or management degree in Italy or elsewhere.