# What is a General Course?

**Source**: https://www.unipd.it/en/studying-padua/courses/general-courses/what-general-course
**Parent**: https://www.unipd.it/en/studying-padua/courses/general-courses

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  - [Full list of General Courses](https://www.unipd.it/en/studying-padua/courses/general-courses/full-list-general-courses)
  - [What is a General Course?](https://www.unipd.it/en/studying-padua/courses/general-courses/what-general-course)
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## What is a General Course?

*[Versione italiana](https://www.unipd.it/general-course-cosa-sono)*

A General Course is an **interdisciplinary opportunity** for all those within the academic community to **acquire the transversal skills** indicated by the European Union to better prepare for changes in the **labour market and become active global citizens**. The lifelong learning tools gained will drive a more differentiated, mobile, and digitally sophisticated society. A General Course expands one's knowledge in areas outside their current scope of understanding.

A General Course is an interdisciplinary training and learning opportunity open to **students of all three-year and master's degree courses** at the University of Padua. General Courses are considered electives that include a final exam.

Some General Courses offer **free places for university staff and employees**, while technical-administrative staff may attend them as part of their training activities upon passing the exam ([more information](https://www.unipd.it/en/general-course-training-unipd-staff)).

As a single course, General Courses are open to anyone who wishes to participate.