Educational goals

The specific educational objectives pursued by the course programme include training graduates who (i) possess the basic chemical skills and knowledge necessary for employment in roles requiring familiarity with the scientific method, and (ii) have the ability to apply innovative methods and techniques and use complex equipment. These skills must (i) build on the required knowledge of chemistry and related subjects, (ii) aim at gaining full familiarity with the scientific method in terms of processing and interpreting experimental data, and (iii) developing models and theoretical descriptions. The various courses available will train students to tackle increasingly complex issues and ever-changing problems, enabling them to develop scientific rigour, which they can draw on in the pursuit of other Master's degree studies and in the labour landscape. This Bachelor's degree, which is methodological in nature, includes course subjects that foster the progressive acquisition of the chemical, mathematical and physical skills required for further studies. The training course is structured in the following learning areas: CHEMICAL AREA It provides a solid basic grounding and a broad knowledge of the fundamentals of inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, organic chemistry and analytical chemistry; as well as skills and competence in fundamental laboratory operations. During the course, students will also develop the ability to select and apply experimental methods, collect and analyse data, and recognise the potential, limitations, reliability, and scope of scientific instruments in analytical, structural, kinetic, and thermodynamic investigations. Students will also acquire knowledge and skills in the areas of synthesis and reactivity, chemistry and technological aspects of plastics and the solid state in general. MATHEMATICS AREA Course subjects taught in this area are designed to provide students with the basic mathematical knowledge for a scientific degree while introducing them to the mathematical modelling method. Where possible, the chosen topics and examples take into account chemical issues in which mathematics plays a significant role. PHYSICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AREA Its aim is to provide an adequate knowledge of classical physics (mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and electromagnetism) and modern physics (quantum mechanics), in order to describe atoms, molecules and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. At the same time, students will become familiar with the experimental method by engaging in target-oriented laboratory activities and data analysis using statistical and computer methods. BIOLOGICAL AREA It enables students to gain adequate knowledge of basic biochemistry relating to the chemical nature of the processes involved in biological systems, which are necessary for learning the topics covered in the subsequent courses in bioinorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. Students will complete their training by attending freely chosen courses and completing internship periods with a view to honing their laboratory skills. This will enable them to enter the labour market immediately or continue their studies on a Master's degree programme. The final exam consists of a written report on the activities carried out during the internship or a thesis based on bibliographic research, certified by a university professor acting as supervisor. The thesis will be then discussed in an open session before an ad-hoc graduation committee. Teaching methods mainly comprise conventional lectures (i.e. Classroom-based) and practical exercises in both classroom and laboratory settings. However, innovative, interactive and digital teaching techniques will supplement these methods on a regular basis. The focus on interactive and digital teaching, as well as laboratory work (including group work), is an important addition to the overall theoretical content. It also provides the necessary and currently much-appreciated skills for accessing the labour market. Teaching will also be underpinned by a number of tutoring projects. Achievement of the learning objectives will be measured through written and/or oral exams at the end of each course, which may be preceded by ongoing assessments. The training received during the degree programme provides the necessary foundation for further study at master's level and will position graduates for immediate entry into the labour market. The skills acquired, with special emphasis on familiarity with the scientific method, will enable graduates to (i) adapt to the evolution of the discipline, (ii) interact with culturally contiguous professions, and (iii) continue studies in Master's degree courses. The teaching organisation complies with both the “Chemistry Eurobachelor” and the model developed by the Italian Chemical Society concerning the fundamental elements of “Core Chemistry” for degree programmes in Class L-27. The degree programme provides suitable background for continuing studies in various STEM master's degree programmes.

Career opportunities

Junior chemist. The skills gained by graduates will enable them to access a whole range of employment opportunities, particularly in positions of limited responsibility that may be upgraded following further training at master's degree level. Notably, they may find employment in: - Chemical research centres and laboratories in public or private institutions; - Laboratories for quality analysis, control and certification; - Industries and work environments requiring basic knowledge in chemistry; - Public and/or private organisations and companies, either as employees or freelance consultants; - Museums and other organisations for the promotion and dissemination of science; - Journalism and publishing in science, including media and the web.

Admission requirements

In order to be admitted to the degree programme, students must hold the secondary school diploma required by current legislation, or an equivalent qualification obtained abroad and recognised by the relevant university offices. To enrol on the degree programme, applicants must have, or be able to gain, an adequate level of initial knowledge in chemistry, physics and mathematics (equivalent to secondary school level), which will be assessed through an entrance test (TOLC-S). Further details will be provided upon enrolment. Further details on how to assess the applicants’ background, as well as how to address any gaps or additional learning requirements (which must at any rate be filled/met within the first year of study), are provided in the Teaching Regulations of the degree programme.