Similar in name, but different in fact the ITS courses and the IFTS courses aim to train specialised technicians and are mainly aimed at girls and boys who have finished high school.

The aim of ITS and IFTS courses is to make post-diploma training more practical e in step with the times.

More practical, because about half of each course has to take place in an apprenticeship, in the field, at a local company.

In step with the times, because courses and modules can change very easily over the years, adapting to the needs of the market and those who will then employ the students. Also helping in this is the fact that at least half of the teachers of these courses must be professionals and not an academic.

In short, ITS and IFTS courses represent a good opportunity for every young person to entering the world of work with the most useful skills in a short time. But what are the differences between these two paths?

What are ITS courses?

The acronym ITS stands for Higher Technical Institutes.

ITS courses are in fact organised by real schools established according to the Participation Foundation. This means that to make an ITS there must be a strong collaboration between companies, universities, research centres and local authorities.

This organisational model actually ensures that:

  • ITS courses are relevant for companies
  • Teaching is rigorous and qualitative
  • Students have several placement opportunities once they have completed the course

There are ITS courses in 6 areas technologysustainable mobility (as ITS Move Academy), energy efficiency, new life technologies, new technologies for Made in Italy, innovative technologies for cultural and tourist goods and activities, and information and communication technologies.

Anyone can access ITS courses. The only requirements are being in possession of a diploma upper secondary school or a 4-year vocational education and training diploma and passing the selection process.

The entry selection consists of written and oral tests that assess the mathematical, linguistic and technological skills of each candidate.

ITS courses they last 2 years for a total of 1,800-2,000 hours.

At the end of the course there is a final examination after which the certificate of Higher Technical Specialisationcorresponding to an EQF level V qualification (such as a Bachelor's degree).

Discover the ITS courses of ITS Move Academy.

What are IFTS courses?

The acronym IFTS stands for Higher Technical Education and Training.

The IFTS courses last 1 year for a total of 800-1,000 hours and give a EQF level IV certificate.

There are IFTS courses in different economic-professional areas including:

  • Manufacturing and craftsmanship
  • Mechanical Plant and Construction
  • Culture, information and information technology
  • Commercial Services
  • Tourism and sport

During an IFTS course the student learns both general skills (relational and management) and specific skills according to the chosen specialisation.

Successful completion of an IFTS course allows access to ITS courses.

Discover ITS Move Academy's IFTS courses.

Author of the article

ITS MOVE - Editor