Research activities in the first two cycles of Italian Biosystems Engineering University studies

In Italy, from the academic year 2000-2001, Universities offer 3-year 1st cycle degree study programmes, 2-year 2nd cycle degree study programmes and 3rd cycle degrees. During the implementation of the Bologna process in Italy, from the academic year 2008-2009, 3+2 year University study programmes were updated. In the Italian Agricultural Engineering teaching institutions the students of the 1st and 2nd cycles can carry out research activities, through their thesis work and/or their coursework project. In Italy the access to research positions for the 2nd cycle graduates is a little more common than for the 1st cycle graduates. Possible actions and activities for preserving the topics of rare and disappearing knowledge in Biosystems Engineering in Europe (historical farm or old rural buildings; old water/wind mills, oil mills, etc.; agritourism or rural tourism; agricultural museums; old agricultural machines and tools, mill stones, olive presses, etc.) can be carried out, also within the ERABEE thematic network.