Ph.D.s trained in this course of study will be able to flexibly and productively apply the knowledge learned, in diverse contexts. The main aim is to train PhDs in the field of research processes and methodologies of basic and applied psychology, which transversely underlie all areas of psychology.
The Ph.D. pathway aims primarily to train researchers capable of designing and carrying out research aimed at understanding and modeling psychological processes using the most up-to-date scientific inputs in the literature, both in terms of theoretical models of reference, and to methods and techniques specific to the different fields, taking into account the modes of operation in the different stages of development, both typical and atypical, and the interconnections with other areas of research, in order to enhance interdisciplinarity.
The Ph.D./Ph.D. student, starting from her/his own research interests, with the supervision of the guiding faculty member will be able to specialize in one of four different specific areas of Psychology: General Psychology and Neuropsychology; Developmental and Educational Psychology; Social and Occupational Psychology; and Clinical and Dynamic Psychology.
The knowledge and skills acquired upon completion of the doctoral program may be expendable not only at Italian and foreign universities and research centers, but also at psychological rehabilitation centers, neuropsychological rehabilitation centers, and social and health services.
Additional professional outlets could be Centers for the Prevention of Psychological Distress and Neurodegenerative Disorders, Children's Services, Educational and School Institutions. In parallel, such knowledge and skills could be effective in supporting institutions, companies and businesses operating in the third sector.
In order to ensure full correspondence between the preparation of Ph.D.s and the needs of society and the labor market (demand for training), the design of the training plan of this Ph.D. in line with the training objectives has been defined both through extensive consultation of sector studies and through direct discussion with the main stakeholders in the cultural/professional profiles at the exit (students, teachers, scientific and professional organizations, representatives of the world of culture). A stable dialogue with stakeholders makes it possible, in fact, to verify the consistency between the professional profiles and the defined learning outcomes and to confirm or modify improve the structure of the educational pathway in the presence of changed needs while developing a cooperative relationship with the territory.