Political science in Italy after the last University reform

Abstract

In 2010 the Italian parliament approved the reform of the university system proposed by Maria Stella Gelmini, education minister of the fourth Berlusconi cabinet. This major reform affects primarily the governance system of universities by strengthening the powers of the rectors and of the administrative boards (Consiglio di amministrazione) responsible for university finances. It changes also significantly the whole structure of universities. While in the past the main peripheral units of Italian universities used to be the faculties, large and multidisciplinary bodies in charge of all teaching and recruitment matters, after the reform departments (which already existed but with a lesser role) become the predominant organizational and take over all the functions of faculties. Faculties or schools might survive but only as secondary bodies with functions delegated by the departments.