Officially known as the Italian Republic, the country is found in southern Europe. The official language is Italian and the cultural rich capital is Rome. Many of the world's oldest universities are located in Italy, in particular the University of Bologna (founded in 1088). There are three Superior Graduate Schools with "university status", three institutes with the status of Doctoral Colleges, which function at graduate and post-graduate level.

Individuals who are interested in pursuing highly skilled careers may want to start by earning an associate degree at a community college or university. As students earn their degrees, they often expand their knowledge and worldview, as well as increase their professional qualifications.