An Innovative and Multidisciplinary Bachelor’s Program in Materials Science at the University of Bologna: A Model for Internationalized STEM Education.

This seminar presents the Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science at the University of Bologna as a case study of innovative, interdisciplinary teaching with a strong international perspective. The program is designed to address the increasing demand for advanced materials by integrating knowledge from physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computational science into a coherent educational pathway. Developed through collaboration among the Departments of Physics, Chemistry, and Industrial Chemistry, the course reflects a successful effort to harmonize different scientific approaches and terminologies into a unified curriculum. It adopts a modern teaching methodology that combines theoretical foundations with experimental and computational practices. A key distinguishing feature of the program is its emphasis on active learning, with hands-on laboratory activities and early exposure to materials-related topics from the first year. This “learn by doing” approach enables students to progressively build practical and analytical skills. In the final year, students are encouraged to engage in applied experiences through internships with industrial partners and research institutions, both locally and internationally. The program also promotes student mobility and global engagement, leveraging international agreements to provide opportunities for study and training abroad. These experiences enhance students’ academic development and prepare them for careers in an increasingly interconnected scientific and technological landscape. Overall, the Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science at the University of Bologna represents a forward-looking educational model that combines interdisciplinarity, practical training, and internationalization to train the next generation of materials scientists, significantly enhancing their employability and career prospects in the global STEM job market.