The University of Ferrara, founded on March 4, 1391, is one of the oldest universities in Italy and was founded by Deust. Marchese. Duke Alberto V was founded under the patronage of Pope Boniface IX. The University has 8 faculties, 20 academic departments and several research centers, and offers 78 undergraduate programs, various master's degree programs and professional training courses. At present, there are more than 20,000 students enrolled in the university, and nearly 400 degrees are awarded each year, with 600 faculty members, including 223 academic researchers.