During the 13th-14th centuries there was an educational institution, studium, in Parma, but it was closed in 1387 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Duke of Milan.

The university was opened in 1412 by Niccolò III d'Este, and, although no papal bull was issued, the degrees were granted.

[5] Logic, natural history, mathematics and theology were taught by Jesuits and law and medicine by civil teachers.

[3] Among the most important Jesuits who taught in Parma should be mentioned Giovanni Battista Riccioli, and Daniello Bartoli.

In 1862, the University of Parma was declared grade B, its financing was reduced, and the quality of education degraded.