The PhD student's educational activity is divided into Teaching Activities and Research and Training Activities. In order to ensure an integrated scientific approach, special emphasis will be given to the in-depth study of research methods and techniques used in the different fields of study envisaged, highlighting the possibilities and opportunities for integrating theoretical models and strategies of analysis belonging to different disciplinary fields, with appropriate exemplifications aimed at developing and enhancing critical analysis skills.
During the 1st year, 16 theoretical courses are offered mainly aimed at providing adequate and in-depth knowledge of the methodological and statistical principles and techniques fundamental to basic psychological research in its various declinations. Practical-guided activities are also planned, aimed at the acquisition of transversal and interdisciplinary knowledge/skills. Special attention is paid to language and computer skills, which are essential for bibliographic updating and statistical processing of research data, ethical aspects of research and the importance of proper dissemination of scientific products. Students are required to produce at least one thematic research review to be submitted for publication to international journals in the field. All stages of this activity (from searching bibliographic sources to submission for publication) are carried out individually by each doctoral student with the guidance and supervision of their mentor.
During the 2nd year, the teaching offerings include 15 theoretical courses and laboratory activities on interdisciplinary topics of interest in applied research in different areas of psychology, with the main objective of providing students with a scientific, methodologically correct and rigorous approach to the application of their knowledge also in the professional field. Guiding teachers will supervise the writing and publication of at least one research article (basic or applied) in English, with the main objective of verifying the level of competence acquired while ensuring the quality of their products.
During the 3rd year it is planned to intensify active participation, including through the presentation of their research products, in national and international seminars and conferences. In addition, an internship (minimum duration 3 months - maximum 6 months) is planned. All doctoral students with scholarships are required to do the internship abroad, while doctoral students without scholarships may choose to do the internship in Italy. In both cases, the internship is carried out at Agreed Institutions or Research Centers for the purpose of deepening and broadening one's knowledge on the topics covered by the research interests in line with the educational objectives of the Ph.D. program.
At the end of each year, the Ph.D. student submits a written report to the Board of teachers on the training activities carried out and any supplementary activities performed, countersigned by the Tutor. In addition, the research activity conducted during the year is presented orally to the Board of Professors for evaluation of admission agni subsequent years or the procedure for access to the final examination. By the third year, the writing of the doctoral thesis must be completed, which, upon approval of the Tutor, will be presented to the Board of Lecturers for admission to the final examination.