Introduction to the Degree Program in Scienze dei Prodotti Erboristici e della Salute

The Degree Program in Scienze dei Prodotti Erboristici e della Salute (SPES) is a three-year course that provides a common pathway (with 141 CFU) and three distinct curricula (with 39 CFU each) for the training of experts in herbal products for health, health product information, and quality control of health products.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The program is structured to meet the needs of the economic and productive system, with a focus on the following areas:

• Scienze erboristiche (herbal sciences)
• Informazione per la salute (health information)
• Controllo di qualit‡ (quality control)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the SPES program will have highly specialized training to work in various fields, including:

• Erboristerie (herbal shops)
• Parafarmacie (para-pharmacies)
• Farmacie (pharmacies) with an herbal department
• Aziende di produzione agricola (agricultural production companies)
• Imprese e laboratori di estrazione, trasformazione e controllo di materie prime di origine vegetale (companies and laboratories for the extraction, transformation, and control of plant-based raw materials)

Admission Requirements

The program does not have a limited number of places, but it does require a preliminary assessment test to evaluate the student's initial competencies in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology.

Teaching Methods and Activities

The program includes theoretical and practical teachings, with laboratory exercises and fieldwork. The didactic pathway includes 225 hours of internship (equivalent to 9 CFU), which can be carried out within the university or outside (in companies, laboratories, research institutions, public or private institutions, also within the framework of international agreements).

Accreditation and Recognition

The SPES program has received accreditation from the Ministry of Education, University and Research for the academic year 2025/26. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the state exam for registration in the professional register of chemists (Sezione B dell'Albo professionale dei Chimici) and, starting from 2019, also for the state exam enabling the profession of Agrotecnico ed Agrotecnico Laureato.

Further Education Opportunities

The degree in Scienze dei prodotti erboristici e della salute allows direct access to master's degree programs in Scienze della nutrizione umana (human nutrition sciences) and Biotecnologie vegetali e microbiche (plant and microbial biotechnology), subject to the possession of a B2 level certification in English.

University of Pisa

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Overview:

The University of Pisa is a renowned Italian university with a rich history and a strong academic reputation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Facilities:

Access to libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, and other resources.

Administrative Support:

Assistance with enrollment, tuition fees, and other administrative matters.

Student Life:

Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, and social events.

Academic Guidance:

Support from academic advisors and career counselors.

Language Courses:

Programs to improve Italian language skills.

Accommodation:

Assistance with finding suitable housing options.

Career Service:

Guidance and resources for career development and job searching.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Pisa offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, join student clubs, and participate in social events. The city of Pisa itself provides a rich cultural and historical environment for students to explore.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Reputation:

The university is known for its high-quality academic programs and research.

International Focus:

The university actively promotes international collaboration and offers programs taught in English.

Cultural Heritage:

Pisa is a historic city with numerous cultural attractions and landmarks.

Affordable Tuition:

The university offers relatively affordable tuition fees compared to other European universities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Pisa offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Degree Programs:

Bachelor's and Master's degrees in various disciplines, including science, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and medicine.

Foundation Course:

A preparatory course for international students who wish to enroll in Italian universities.

Summer and Winter Schools:

Short-term programs for students to gain specialized knowledge and skills.

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Other:

The university has a strong commitment to research and innovation. It is also actively involved in international collaborations and partnerships.