Master in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy

The Second-Level Master in Palliative Care and Pain Therapy is offered by the University of Catania, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences. The programme covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, clinical pain assessment, home care, psychological and spiritual aspects, bioethics, legislation and the management of care networks. 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. It comprises 246 hours of lectures, 904 hours of personal study and 300 hours of compulsory internship, with compulsory attendance of 80%. Knowledge of English is required. The cost is €2,500.

The aim is to train professionals who work in public and private facilities, hospices and home services, in the management of chronic pain and chronic-degenerative conditions. Career opportunities are specialist nurse, physiotherapist, health assistant, psychiatric rehabilitation technician and specialist psychologist in multidisciplinary teams. 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.