Bachelor in Cardiocirculatory and Cardiovascular Perfusion Techniques
Siena, Italy
Bachelor's degree
DURATION
3 years
LANGUAGES
Italian
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Graduates are expected to achieve professional competence through theoretical training and substantial internship activity. The final examination is qualifying for professional practice and therefore special emphasis will be placed on practical training, which will comprise one-third of the total CFU of the degree course. It will be carried out under direct supervision and performed in the work context so as to develop the appropriate behaviour and mastery of the necessary skills. All these elements will allow immediate access to the world of work.
The Bachelor’s Degree in Cardiovascular Physiology and Cardiovascular Perfusion Techniques (CL-TFCPC) belongs to the degree class in Technical Health Professions (class SNT/3) and is structured over three years.
The program aims to train professionals with university-level scientific and theoretical–practical preparation, equipped with a high level of knowledge and technical skills related to the management (operation and maintenance) of equipment used to replace cardio-respiratory functions (extracorporeal circulation systems), as well as diagnostic and interventional hemodynamic and cardiological techniques.
The program is designed to provide the methodologies and cultural foundation necessary to achieve a high level of professional, decision-making, and operational autonomy, ensuring that by the end of the training pathway, graduates possess full mastery of all the required competencies.
Several scholarship options are available, please visit the university website for information.
Graduates acquire solid preparation in the basic sciences as well as knowledge of the English language, both for their professional field and for cultural exchange and continuing education.
Graduates will be competent in the various extracorporeal perfusion systems and will be jointly responsible, together with the physician, for the choice of appropriate techniques and equipment. Their tasks will be of a technical nature: assisting medical staff and providing essential input.
Graduates will be qualified to operate extracorporeal perfusion equipment and to safely manage physiological functions through monitoring and intervention on the relevant variables. They will be skilled in the use of various techniques such as hypothermia, hemodilution, blood conservation, and will be trained and authorized to manage, according to approved protocols, blood and blood products, drugs, and anesthetic agents.
Graduates will also acquire administrative skills and responsibilities related to equipment and material procurement, as well as quality management and control in perfusion practice.
Throughout their studies, graduates will gain the scientific foundations and the theoretical-practical preparation required for licensure to practice as Cardiovascular Physiology and Perfusion Technicians, with skills that are immediately applicable in the job market, either in public or private healthcare facilities, as employees or independent professionals.
To this end, the program requires the acquisition of a total of 180 ECTS credits over three years, one third of which must be earned through practical training activities (internships) designed to develop specific professional skills.
The final examination serves as a qualifying exam for professional practice.
The graduate is a specialist, qualified through university and clinical training, who manages the extracorporeal circulation system in pathologies requiring support or replacement of cardiorespiratory functions.
Role in a work context:
The tasks are strictly technical in nature: graduates assist medical personnel by providing essential input or operating equipment used for hemodynamic diagnostics or to replace cardiocirculatory functions. They will plan and manage the proper functioning of the equipment under their responsibility; ensure the correct application of support techniques; carry out their professional activity in healthcare facilities, public or private, either as employees or independent practitioners; contribute to the training of support staff; and participate in continuing education and research.
Competencies associated with the role:
The cardiovascular physiology and perfusion technician is a healthcare professional who, holding a qualifying degree, is responsible for the activities within their scope of practice in the following technical areas:
- Cardiovascular and extracorporeal perfusion
- Hemodynamics
- Electrophysiology
- Echocardiography
Career opportunities:
For many years, the number of graduates has been insufficient to meet demand. Career opportunities, according to ISTAT classification, include hospitals and specialised clinics, as well as university institutes, clinics, and polyclinics equipped with cardiac surgery centres, cardiology units, or oncology centres where hyperthermic anti-cancer perfusion is practised.
Why Studying in Siena?
The University of Siena, located in the historic city of Siena in Italy, is an attractive choice for higher education for various reasons.
Tradition and Prestige: Established in 1240, the University of Siena is one of the oldest universities in Italy and Europe. It has a rich history and a longstanding reputation for academic excellence.
Diverse Course Offerings: The University of Siena offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs in various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, medicine, engineering, economics and social sciences. This allows students to pursue their interests and career goals.
International Environment: The University of Siena attracts students from all around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment. This exposure to different perspectives and cultures can be highly enriching for students.
Quality of Life: Siena is known for its relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. The city’s manageable size and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal location for students looking to balance their studies with a vibrant social life.
Research Impact: The University of Siena’s research output is recognised globally, with its faculty and researchers contributing to significant advancements in various fields. The university’s research publications and citations in international journals reflect its commitment to high-quality research and global impact.
Research Opportunities: The University of Siena has strong research programs and collaborations with other institutions, both in Italy and internationally. This can provide students with valuable opportunities for research and professional development.
Affordability: Compared to universities in some other countries, tuition fees at the University of Siena are relatively affordable. Additionally, the cost of living in Siena is generally lower than in larger Italian cities like Rome or Milan.
Exchange Programs: The University of Siena participates in several international exchange programs, such as the Erasmus+ program, which allows students to study abroad for a semester or academic year, providing valuable international experience.
Career Prospects: Graduates from the University of Siena have a strong record of finding employment or continuing their education, both within Italy and internationally. The university’s reputation and connections can help students access opportunities in their chosen fields.
Beautiful Location: Siena is a picturesque city with a rich history and stunning architecture. The city’s medieval cityscape and scenic countryside provide a unique and inspiring setting for studying.
Language and Cultural Immersion: Studying in Siena offers the opportunity to learn or improve Italian language skills, as well as gain a deep understanding of Italian culture and history.
Studying Abroad
International students enrolled at the University of Siena can participate in several international exchange programs, such as the Erasmus+ program, which allows our students to study abroad for a semester or one academic year, providing valuable international experience.
Our International programs allow students of the University of Siena to spend a study period (from 2 to 12 months) at one of the other 500 partner universities worldwide.
It is possible to carry out the mobility during each study cycle (bachelor, master of PhD), attend courses and sit exams, prepare thesis work and carry out internship activities. Participants in the International mobility programs will get full recognition for the credits obtained abroad.
In addition to in-presence teaching, which continues to be the preferred method also in the next Academic Year, every single lesson will be simultaneously live-streamed and/or video recorded and uploaded on our digital platform for subsequent viewing. This mode is essential for students who are temporarily unable to be on premises.