Overview of the Italian Higher Education System

Main Paths in Higher Education

Apart from traditional universities, Italy also offers:

• Higher Education for Fine Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)
• Higher Schools for Language Mediators, which provide degrees equivalent to university qualifications.
• Higher Technical Institutes (ITS), which focus on non-university tertiary education tailored to industry needs.

Types of Universities in Italy

1. State-run Public Universities
2. Legally Recognized Private Universities: Their degrees have the same value as those from public institutions.
3. Distance Learning Universities: Provide online courses, but exams and thesis defenses are in person.
4. Specialized Graduate Schools: Focus on research and advanced courses.

University Credits (CFUs)

CFUs (Crediti Formativi Universitari) measure the workload for each course. One CFU equals 25 hours of work, similar to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Typically, 60 CFUs are earned in one academic year.

Structure of University Degrees

1. First Cycle (Bachelor’s Degree – Laurea)
• Lasts 3 years and requires 180 CFUs.
• Includes coursework, exams, internships, and a final thesis defense.
2. Second Cycle (Master’s Degree – Laurea Magistrale)
   • Lasts 2 years and requires 120 CFUs.
   • Requires a Bachelor’s degree for entry and concludes with a thesis defense.
   Single-Cycle Master’s Programs
   • Integrate both first and second cycles, lasting 5-6 years (300-360 CFUs). Common in fields like medicine, law, and architecture.
3. Third Cycle (PhD and Specializing Masters)
   • PhD (Dottorato di Ricerca): Lasts at least 3 years, includes research and a final thesis.
   • Specializing Masters: Offers professional training, lasting 2-6 years, depending on the field.

AFAM – Fine Arts, Music, and Dance

Italy has 144 institutions under the AFAM system, mostly public, offering courses in fields such as visual arts, music, and dance. These programs lead to first- and second-level diplomas equivalent to university degrees. AFAM institutions use Academic Training Credits (CFAs) instead of CFUs.

Language Mediation Schools (SSML)

These schools offer three-year degrees (180 CFUs) focused on advanced language skills and technical training for professional mediators. Some also provide two-year Master’s programs for further specialization.

Higher Technical Institutes (ITS)

ITS programs train experts for quick entry into the job market, focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises. They require a high school diploma and often an additional preparatory course. Graduates earn a diploma corresponding to Level V of the European Qualifications Framework.