The Master’s program aims to provide participants with advanced, interdisciplinary training in mindfulness, fostering the development of theoretical, practical, and research competencies. Upon completion, participants will be able to:
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Understand the historical, philosophical, and cultural foundations of mindfulness, with particular reference to Eastern contemplative traditions (especially Buddhist) and their dialogue with contemporary psychology and medicine.
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Possess in-depth knowledge of the main mindfulness-based clinical protocol, the MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) program, including its theoretical premises, structure, techniques, and supporting scientific evidence.
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Critically analyze the international scientific literature on the neurobiological, psychological, and physiological correlates of mindfulness, understanding the brain and cognitive mechanisms involved in meditative practice.
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Develop experiential competencies in the practice of mindfulness through guided exercises, formal and informal meditation techniques, and protocols of self-observation and emotional self-regulation.
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Identify and discuss the ethical, epistemological, and methodological implications of integrating contemplative practices with contemporary cognitive sciences.
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Design and adapt mindfulness-based interventions according to the contexts, needs, and characteristics of target populations, in a competent, responsible, and evidence-based manner.
The Master’s Course in Mindfulness and Mindful Eating: Awareness, Health, and Psychophysical Well-being offers several employment opportunities. Below is a list of some possible career prospects:
• Facilitator of mindfulness-based protocols in clinical and healthcare settings: Professionals with prior training in psychology, psychotherapy, medicine, or the health professions can integrate mindfulness into clinical practice for the management of stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, applying structured protocols such as MBSR in hospital or outpatient contexts.
• Trainer and facilitator of mindfulness in educational and organizational contexts: The master’s program enables graduates to design and deliver mindfulness-based interventions in schools, universities, training institutions, and corporate organizations, promoting psychological well-being, emotion regulation, concentration, and burnout prevention among students, teachers, and employees.
• Consultant and designer of mindfulness-based psychoeducational interventions: In socio-educational and psychosocial contexts, the degree enables collaboration with public bodies, third-sector organizations, and NGOs to develop projects that foster well-being and resilience in vulnerable populations, such as at-risk adolescents, incarcerated individuals, older adults, migrants, or caregivers.
Applicants holding an Upper Secondary School Diploma and a Bachelor’s Degree or a Specialist/Master’s Degree (or equivalent under the previous system) may enroll. In the absence of the required qualifications, admission “by dossier” is possible, based on an evaluation of the academic degrees obtained and of prior professional experience, as well as the competencies developed within the scope of professional activity. Lectures will be delivered at the instructor’s discretion through papers, commentaries, specialized manuals, handouts, or live-streamed classes via an online platform. Assessment is expressed on a 30-point scale. The final examination consists of a thesis of at least 30 pages on one of the topics covered during the Master’s program.
