The main objectives of the PhD program are different according to the three different curricula:
A ) SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY CURRICULUM
The curriculum is aimed at the advanced training of researchers capable of working in two main areas: the first aim is to understand basic social psychological processes (intra- and intergroup processes, social cognition, attitudes, prejudice, and environmental psychology) through empirical research methodologies, grounded in quantitative and experimental settings; another area aims to train researchers capable of reading social phenomena through cultural psychology and analysing psychosocial phenomena as an emerging product of social, discursive interaction between actors. These areas take into account the different contexts such as the political, organisational, marketing, educational, medical organisation and family.
B) CURRICULUM IN DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH
The curriculum aims to ensure innovative competences both in the field of didactic experimentation and in the field of developmental psychology research. As far as educational research is concerned, the aim is to carry out research projects concerning the reforms that have affected the national education system, the reform of active employment policies (e.g. continuing education, career orientation). With regard to research in developmental psychology, the aim is to train experts with advanced knowledge of specific research methods capable of critically evaluating the most up-to-date theories and planning, defining and elaborating different research activities in the study of biological, social and cultural factors linked to the development of children and adolescents.
C) CURRICULUM MIGRATION STUDIES: PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL ISSUES
The curriculum provides methodological, social and humanistic approaches to the topic of migration and contributes to a greater understanding of migration studies. The doctoral program comprises courses that examine, with a multidimensional approach and using quantitative and qualitative methods, social, evolutionary and educational aspects of migration phenomena. The three-year program offers advanced expertise in the field of international migration with strong academic collaborations with other universities. |