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Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

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Master in

Smart Sustainable Agriculture Systems in Mountain Areas

Learn how to manage mountain farming sustainably, using innovative technologies and a multidisciplinary approach in this international programme designed to promote agricultural, environmental and economic development in mountain areas.

Course Description

This programme offers advanced training in sustainable mountain agriculture, with a focus on smart technologies, resource management and multifunctional agriculture. Through a multidisciplinary approach, it integrates agricultural, environmental and economic expertise to prepare professionals for the sustainability challenges of the sector. Learning activities include theoretical classes, practical activities, field trips and internships to ensure a comprehensive and practical education. Graduates will be able to develop strategies to increase the resilience of farms, promote sustainable rural development and conserve/preserve the natural and cultural resources of mountain regions. 

Online Info Sessions

We offer online information sessions in the coming months during which the master programme will be presented and where interested students can address their questions to professors and students. The Info Sessions take place on the following days:

  • Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 18:00 (CEST): register here
  • Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 18:00 (CEST): register here

At a Glance

Degree class: LM-69
ECTS credits: 120
Duration of the course: 2 years
Courses will be taught in English
Places available: 40 EU + 5 non-EU
Campus: Bozen-Bolzano
Tuition fees: ca. € 1200 per year

Structure of the course

During the first two semesters, courses cover a range of areas including sustainable agriculture, resource management and the fundamentals of agricultural engineering.

In the third semester, students can tailor their learning with optional courses that explore areas such as agricultural planning, specialised agronomy of mountain crops and advanced digitalisation. Students are encouraged to spend the third semester at one of the programme's partner universities, in particular the University of Applied Sciences Weihenstephan-Triesdorf in Bavaria, Germany. Activities include laboratory work, workshops, study trips and internships.

The fourth semester is devoted to the final thesis, an advanced research project that integrates the skills acquired. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are fully equipped to deal effectively with the complexities of managing mountain farming systems.

Study course structure

Part-time enrolment 

Part-time enrolment 

Part-time enrolment allows you to reduce your study load, giving you more time for other activities such as work, sports, or personal or familiar commitments. You will take a reduced number of courses per year while still having access to all the services provided by the university. Students choose this option after enrollment (in October) and not during the application (subject to approval by the ministry).
 

More info

People

Degree Course Director: Prof. Christian Fischer
Student Representative in the Course Council: ---

Exchange programmes and internships

Currently we offer exchange programmes with partner universities all over the world and we are part of a large network of collaboration with employers in Italy and abroad where you can undertake your internship. Students are encouraged to spend the third semester at one of our partner universities, in particular the University of Applied Sciences Weihenstephan-Triesdorf in Bavaria, Germany. The internship is not compulsory. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates can work as agronomists, researchers, consultants or managers in the agricultural, forestry and environmental sectors. Opportunities include roles in public institutions, private companies, international organisations and NGOs. They will be able to develop strategies for the sustainable management of mountain farming systems, using modern intelligent technologies and maximising their economic and environmental performance.

Graduates may also be involved in rural planning, the design of resilient and innovative farming systems, and the promotion of local products and agri-tourism. With a solid technical and scientific background, they will contribute to the sustainable development of mountain regions, preserving landscapes and strengthening local communities. 

Highlights

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Campus Tours

Book an appointment with our Student Ambassadors and get the opportunity to visit the Bozen-Bolzano campus or the NOI Techpark Bozen-Bolzano campus (Faculty of Engineering) and gain an insight into your future student life. 

The visits will take place from 3 March to 30 May 2025 from Monday to Friday in the afternoon.

We offer 60-minute slots every day, which you can book directly online here: unibz Campus Tours | Bozen-Bolzano.

Each individual appointment includes:

  • an advice session with a Student Ambassador,
  • a guided tour of the campus (library, Aula Magna, laboratories, canteen, workshops...)

Application and Admission

You can find all you need to know in order to apply and gain admission to this study programme by browsing through the information below.

Early Bird Application

Application: 03/03 - 06/05/2025 (by noon local time)
Language exams (online): 17/03/2025 (registration: 03 – 09/03/2025) and 16 -17 - 22 - 23/04/2025 (registration: 24/03 – 08/04/2025)
Publication of ranking lists: by 27/05/2025
Payment of the 1st instalment of the tuition fees: by 05/06/2025 (by noon local time)
Enrolment: from 11/07 - 14/10/2025 (by noon local time) 

Late Application (only for EU citizens)

Application: 28/05 - 09/07/2025 (by noon local time)
Language exams (online): 23 - 27/06/2025 (registration: 28/05 – 15/06/2025)
Publication of ranking lists: by 29/07/2025
Payment of the 1st instalment of the tuition fees: by 05/08/2025 (by noon local time)
Enrolment: from publication of the ranking list until 14/10/2025 (by noon local time) 

Additional Application Session (only for EU citizens)

The faculty can open additional application sessions for single study programmes in September if there are available places. More information on additional sessions will be published in due course.  

Preparatory courses and Freshers Days

Freshers Days: 29 - 30/09/2025

1st semester

Classes: 29/09 - 23/12/2025
Holidays: 24/12/2025 - 06/01/2026
Classes: 07/01 - 24/01/2026
Exams: 26/01 - 21/02/2026

2nd semester

Classes: 02/03 - 02/04/2026
Holidays: 03 - 06/04/2026
Classes: 07/04 - 13/06/2026
Exams: 15/06 - 11/07/2026

Autumn session

Exams: 24/08 - 26/09/2026

The Advisory Service provides support regarding your choice of study. In many cases a simple call or a short request is enough to get the relevant information (Tel. +39 0471 012100).

Study Course Page - Common Links - Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences

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