The Degree Program in Agricultural Sciences, although under different names, has existed in Pisa since 1841, when it was established by Marquis Cosimo Ridolfi. The current degree program (CdS) in Agricultural Sciences, class L25 (Agricultural and Forestry Sciences and Technologies), is a three-year program structured into two curricula: “AGROECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT” and “INNOVATION IN THE AGROECOSYSTEM.” The AGROECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT curriculum aims to provide students with the skills needed to analyze and manage the agroecosystem, with particular attention to interactions among plants, soil, climate, and cultivation techniques. The INNOVATION IN THE AGROECOSYSTEM curriculum provides the foundations for applying new technologies to agriculture, with the goal of improving the efficiency and sustainability of production systems.
The program requires a total commitment of 180 University Educational Credits (CFU), divided into basic subjects (36 CFU), core subjects (86 CFU), and 18 CFU within the package offered under the two curricula. Each CFU corresponds to 25 hours of student workload. Courses normally consist of 56 hours for 6 credits, divided into 40% classroom teaching, seminars, or similar activities, and 60% personal study or other individual learning activities. Practical sessions generally correspond to 12 hours per 1 CFU, while laboratory and external activities correspond to 14 hours per CFU.
Overall, the program includes 16 courses (84 CFU) consisting of mandatory specialized subjects, traditionally taught through lectures and laboratory practicals and/or multimedia techniques and/or external activities (in the field, on farms, at public or private institutions, etc.); 26 CFU devoted to mandatory interdisciplinary laboratories; 18 CFU within the chosen curriculum; and a final examination (3 CFU). In addition, mandatory attendance is required (minimum 70% attendance) for other laboratories/guided work/seminar activities freely chosen by the student, for a total of 16 CFU, as well as knowledge of the English language, to which 2 CFU are assigned. Computer skills are also included for a total of 2 CFU, and the internship accounts for 8 CFU.
For the other educational activities (including language skills, computer skills, and seminars), as well as for the internship and the final examination, the 25 hours per CFU are considered to correspond to an equal number of hours of independent student work.