Course presentation

The first-cycle degree course in Physics, which lasts three years, is open-access, althoughp it rovides for a non-selective knowledge test, in accordance with Art. 6 of DM 270/2004. The degree course provides a solid methodological background in physics and a broad knowledge base in the disciplines of physics, mathematics, computer science and chemistry. During the course of study, students acquire familiarity with the scientific method and the ability to model and analyse physical phenomena and systems at a basic level. Thanks to extensive laboratory teaching, they also develop operational skills that enable them to use scientific instrumentation and computer techniques, and to acquire and analyse data.

The prevailing character of the course of study is traditionally of a 'cultural' nature, i.e. it mainly trains a graduate oriented to pursue studies in a second-cycle degree (usually LM17 - Physics) and possibly a PhD.

For those who do not wish to continue their studies after graduating in Physics, the basic skills provided are however immediately spendable in the world of work: for example, the professional figure of the junior professional physicist can work in public and private institutions, in various industrial sectors, in the biomedical and environmental fields, and in general in all those professional contexts that require familiarity with the scientific method and a flexible mentality, predisposed to the rapid learning of new methodologies and technologies. It is also able to contribute to the dissemination of knowledge, research results, methods and applications of Physics.

The course of study, which comprises a single curriculum, is divided into:
- a two-year period in which basic subjects including classical physics, mathematics, computer science and chemistry are covered

- a third introductory year in modern physics, which includes, among other things, a number of electives in various areas such as theoretical physics, the physics of matter, biophysics and physical technologies. In this way, it is possible to create different, fully customisable learning paths.

Students enrolled in the third year may request to replace a course unit of their choice with an internship in private companies or public facilities with which they have an agreement.

It is possible to carry out part of one's studies (a semester or an entire academic year) abroad at universities participating in mobility programmes within the Erasmus+ and Overworld programmes in agreement with the University of Parma.

The educational activities of the study course are conducted essentially through lectures, classroom exercises and laboratory activities. In order to help students overcome any difficulties they may encounter in the first few years, whether due to the commitment required by the disciplines being studied or the adaptation to the new university environment, intensive tutoring is carried out. In particular, the course of study has always had a favourable and much appreciated teacher-student ratio, which ensures an open, informal and stimulating environment with continuous interaction.

• Excellent ratio of number of students to number of teachers, which promotes learning and allows for fruitful discussion.
• Efficient facilities to encourage study and collaboration among students: laboratories, classrooms, study rooms and a library, as well as a computer room equipped with free-access terminals. All set in the pleasant environment of the University Campus, with plenty of green spaces and sports facilities available to students .
• Many subjects include laboratory activities, both experimental and computational, which are also useful for developing the ability to work in a team.
• Customisable study paths with a wide choice of subjects, including the possibility of an internship in a local company.
• Opportunities for examinations and training placements in Europe with Erasmus plus, Traineeship, Work-Placement. Our partners are in Dresden (D), Leiden (NL), Barcelona (ES), Grénoble (F), etc...