The university education system consists of three cycles that include courses of different lengths. Access to courses requires the possession of specific requirements. Completing a course of study requires the attainment of a certain number of CFUs, the undergraduate credits that quantify the required commitment to study.
Bachelor’s degree (first cycle)
Acronym: L
Entry requirements: high school diploma or equivalent qualification obtained abroad
Duration: 3 years
CFUs expected: 180
Title awarded: bachelor’s degree
Objectives: to acquire – including through internships and training placements – general scientific methods and content, skills and tools useful for pursuing a profession or continuing university studies
Continuing studies: master’s degree course, 1st level master’s degree course, advanced course
Master’s degree program (second cycle)
Acronym: LM
Entry requirements: bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification obtained abroad
Duration: 2 years
CFUs expected: 120
Title awarded: master’s degree
Objectives: to acquire advanced level knowledge for the exercise of highly qualified activities in specific fields
Further studies: 2nd level master’s degree, postgraduate course, PhD, graduate school
Master’s degree 1st level (second cycle)
Entry requirements: bachelor’s degree
Duration: 1 year (with rare exceptions)
CFUs expected: at least 60
Final title: does not confer any qualification
Objectives: is a course of study with the character of scientific improvement and higher education that aims at the acquisition of knowledge and skills of a professional nature, of a technical-operational or design level, and can be organized in collaboration with public or private entities or institutions.
Ph.D. (third cycle)
Entry requirements: master’s degree or single-cycle degree
Duration: 3 or 4 years
Title awarded: Ph.D.
Objectives: it is’ the highest level of university education and aims at the acquisition of scientific knowledge and skills required in a university career or in advanced research centers.
Master’s degree 2nd level (third cycle)
Entry requirements: master’s degree or single-cycle master’s degree.
Duration: 1 year
CFUs expected: at least 60
Title awarded: Does not confer any qualification
Objectives: is a course of study with the character of scientific improvement and higher education that aims at the acquisition of knowledge and skills of a professional nature, of a technical-operational or design level, and can be organized in collaboration with public or private bodies or institutions.