From 2025, RUFA has launched two doctoral programmes, marking a historic moment for Higher Artistic, Musical, and Choreutic Education (AFAM). The first PhD – Technology of Cinema and New Media – was born from a collaboration with Università degli Studi Roma Tre, creating the first interdisciplinary programme that bridges universities and AFAM institutions in the fields of cinema, media, music, theatre, and dance. The second PhD – Cross Innovation Design for Cultural Industries – is directly promoted by RUFA and focuses on design and cultural industry innovation, in collaboration with the Associazione Archivio Olivetti and Cappelli Identity Design.
A Turning Point for the AFAM System
The introduction of doctoral programmes in Academies represents the culmination of a long regulatory process initiated with Law No. 508 of 1999, which, drawing from Article 33 of the Constitution, recognised artistic institutions as Higher Education Institutes and paved the way for the establishment of a third cycle of studies. Today, with RUFA among the accredited institutions, a new phase of advanced research is being inaugurated, aligning with the scientific models of universities.
AFAM institutions have finally asserted their autonomy in doctoral research as well, adopting a distinctive approach that combines methodological rigour with artistic innovation. The unique nature of research in this field lies in the construction and experimentation of artistic languages, culminating in both theoretical and creative outputs.
A New Method Bridging Theory and Practice
Academic research at RUFA is structured as an integrated process between theory and practice, based on in-depth knowledge of ideas, techniques, materials, and the most advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence applications. This interdisciplinary approach enhances experimentation, design, and creativity, strengthening the connection between art and science. With the introduction of doctoral pathways, artistic research becomes even more structured, systematic, and measurable, giving academic education a well-defined scientific and methodological framework. This evolution not only expands career prospects in the arts and creative sectors but also strengthens the relationship between two complementary forms of knowledge: art and science, both aimed at understanding and improving human society.
The Excellence of RUFA’s Doctoral Programmes
RUFA’s two PhD programmes stand out for their high artistic-scientific value. They are based on an in-depth investigation of the formal, material, and technical aspects of artistic research, combined with a critical analysis of theoretical, aesthetic, philosophical, and historical paradigms of national and international cultural heritage.
This rigorous process combines study, experimentation, and practical application with a methodical analysis of documentary, textual, and archival sources. The scientific rigour of artistic projects is integrated with theoretical construction, resulting in high-level artistic productions and scientific publications. The introduction of doctoral programmes in the AFAM system requires continuous engagement with the latest material and immaterial resources of knowledge, contributing to the strengthening of the entire theoretical, scientific, and artistic framework of the academy.
Caterina Di Rienzo
Member of the RUFA Doctoral Board
Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy and Human Sciences (Roma Tre)
RUFA Lecturer in Psychology of Art
