The reform that many people had been waiting for is finally ready (Ministry decree n.509 of the 3rd November 1999), inside and outside Italian universities.

The revolution consists in the creation of system of studies that is divided in two degree levels, according to the 3+2 years of studies formula, each matched with other possible paths, conceived for constant keeping up to date, and meant for students as well as professionals (master degrees, perfecting courses, research doctorates).

An essential objective is the increase of student mobility on a National and International level, through the introduction of the credits system. This consists of a kind of scoring, which gets higher according to the "work" done in the faculty, which culminates in the obtaining of the academic title.

Enrolment in the new courses will start from the 1st of August of this year. It is a change which pre-announces itself as a radical trend inversion for a country that, compared to the rest of the European Community, on one hand boasts a higher-than-average academic preparation, but on the other, counts on a very high number of students who have not completed their exams in the intended time span (more than 88%).

News for the Milan State University

The reform of the university regulations goes hand in hand with some news on degree courses. The new proposals put forth by the Milanese university are interesting, and they will be activated next to the traditional degree courses.

Practically unchanged, even if updated in contents and didactic methods, will be the course of "Humanities", "History" (which with the reform takes the name of "Historical sciences"), "Human environment, territory and landscape studies" (a modernising of the old geography course), "Philosophy", and "Foreign languages and literature".

Novelties are generally directed towards offering a preparation that will unite multimedia expertise (Internet, graphics and programming) to the old strong points of Humanities culture, History and literature above all.

There are three innovative courses active from this summer:

Linguistic and cultural mediation: the course is ideal for those who wish to undertake a professional path tied in with public relations. It provides economic, juridical, sociological and cultural competence, and all the necessary knowledge to conduct professional relations or ensure language intermediation functions inside the companies, in public or private offices, organisms and International organisations. After a first year dedicated to basic training, according to one's own aspirations, the student can design a course directed towards a specific aspect of linguistic intermediation.

Humanistic communication sciences: it is a customised course for those who want to work in the new economy but also for those who would like to undertake careers tied into the world of communication in a wider sense. From cinema to television, from radio to daily papers. Different didactic courses are planned, which look in depth into methods and theories of language and communication.

Cultural heritage sciences: the course wants to offer the graduate a good knowledge of the notions relative to cultural heritage, archaeologic, historic-artistic and librarian patrimony, as well as musical, theatrical and show. There will be stages, practice and training on the field. The possible professional outlets are varied: from companies that operate in the field of cultural heritage conservation, to associations and public organisations.