Master in Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine

The Second-Level Master in Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine is offered by the University of Catania, Department of General Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialities. The programme includes 274 hours of lectures, 926 hours of individual study and 300 hours of operational internship. The areas covered are the physics, physiology and pathologies of diving, technologies, safety, fitness to dive, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and emergency management. The pathway is aimed at those who wish to deepen and update their skills, with a structure that links theoretical reflection to concrete applications in the relevant professional context.

The master lasts 12 months, is worth 60 credits and is delivered in person in Catania. The internship is compulsory and takes place at hyperbaric centres and operational worksites. The cost is €3,000.

The aim is to train specialists able to work in underwater and hyperbaric settings, with technical-scientific skills aligned with the ECHM-EDTC European standards. Career opportunities are hyperbaric medicine centres, operational worksites, research facilities and national and international institutions. Upon completion, those who successfully finish the pathway obtain the qualification provided and can use the skills acquired in their own professional field or in further study. Concrete prospects nevertheless depend on each participant's starting profile and experience. Those who work should carefully assess the commitment required, in terms of weekly hours and attendance, to understand whether the programme is compatible with other professional or personal commitments.