The University of Parma is a State University. As such, it is self-governing and has administrative, organisational, and accountancy autonomy, while providing tailored services for students. Its centuries-old history dates back to 13th March 962, when Emperor Ottonian I conferred on Uberto, the Bishop of Parma, the initiation of the University in the Diploma: this document, which granted the Bishop the power to order and elect legal leaders (eligere et ordinare notarios), was the foundation for an educational institution that would last centuries later, and is still preserved in the Bishop’s Archives in Parma today.
The different locations of the University allow students to study in comfortable, efficient structures even near green areas, such as the Campus: a 77-hectare area in the south of the city hosting scientific departments, modern and well-equipped lecture halls, comfortable study areas, technologically advanced laboratories, and a CNR centre - as well as several sports facilities, a conference centre, and a canteen.