Conference Program

This study proposes to analyse and reflect on PhD programmes, starting from the peculiarity of the course established by eCampus Online Higher Education. The training includes two study pathways: Medium and Mediality and Applied Science for Well-being and Sustainability. The programmes are accessible in blended mode and integrate both theoretical and practical knowledge, in accordance with scientific rigour and multidisciplinarity (democracy) (Benvenuto, 2022; Spadafora, 2020).

The aim of this study is to investigate the level of perceived engagement of PhD students in relation to their own research project, in order to develop the disposition towards critical thinking and acting as responsible citizens (researchers) (Cappa, 2014; Knowles, et. al., 2024; Viganò, 2025).

The specificity of our research approach lies in the combination of tools and mixed methods (Trinchero, Robasto, 2025). Within this scenario, the topics and research problems are addressed through the integration of multiple approaches and methodologies.

Consequently, the PhD programme represents the final stage of the academic career and is conceived as an opportunity, as well as a professional and cultural investment, requiring PhD students to adopt an ethical perspective in teaching and research, capable of countering and responding to the continuous challenges and transformations of technological and digital society (Ceruti, Bellusci, 2020).

This survey aims to explore whether, and in what ways, the nature and structure of the two Higher Education programmes can sustain the aforementioned assumptions and mobilise the key competences and skills necessary for responsible and sustainable citizenship, enabling individuals to understand and address the complexity of the contemporary world.