Professor Paolo Guido Barbaro Achieves Record-Breaking 12th University Degree

Paolo Guido Barbaro, a 55-year-old professor of History and Philosophy at the “Alessandro Volta” high school in Reggio Calabria, Italy, has earned his twelfth university degree, setting a remarkable record of academic achievement. His journey, spanning thirty-three years, began in 1993 and culminated recently with degrees earned in Genoa and Trieste.

A Lifelong Passion for Learning

Barbaro’s pursuit of knowledge began with a degree in Political Science from the University of Messina in 1993, followed by degrees in Philosophy (1997) and Educational Sciences (2002). He credits a love for learning and the stability of a teaching contract with enabling his continued academic pursuits. “The love of studies has always accompanied me, it is part of me,” Barbaro explained in an interview with La Stampa. [La Stampa]

Expanding Academic Horizons

From 2008 onward, Barbaro continued to expand his academic credentials, earning degrees from universities including Catania, Turin, and Siena. His studies encompassed a wide range of disciplines, including Contemporary History, Contemporary Philosophy, Historical Sciences, Philosophical Sciences, Cultural Anthropology, and Philosophical Methodologies. [Gazzetta del Sud]

A Record Within a Record: Two Degrees in 48 Hours

In February 2026, Barbaro achieved a particularly impressive feat, earning two degrees within 48 hours. He defended his thesis on Benedetto Croce to earn a degree in Philosophical Methodologies from the University of Genoa on February 23rd, and then successfully completed his final discussion in Historical Studies at the University of Trieste on February 25th. [Il Dispaccio]

Overcoming Academic Challenges

Despite his success, Barbaro acknowledges challenges along the way. He noted that some subjects required multiple attempts due to academic regulations regarding the obsolescence of course material. He recounted having to retake Contemporary History three times and English four times. He also admitted that Private Law was his most difficult subject, though he still received a passing grade. [La Stampa]

A Marathon Approach to Learning

Barbaro attributes his perseverance to a combination of passion and physical activity, particularly marathon running. He views running as a metaphor for the academic journey, emphasizing the importance of preparation and dedication to reach the finish line. [La Stampa]

Future Academic Pursuits

Despite already holding twelve university degrees, Barbaro plans to continue his studies, with his next goal being a degree in Sciences of Religions at the University of Turin. [La Stampa]