Distribution analysis of ECTS credits allocated to physical training sciences and methodology (M‑EDF/01) and sport sciences and methodology (M‑EDF/02) in Italian master’s degree programs in exercise and sport sciences.

Purpose In Italy, the 2021 sports reform recognized the professional figure of kinesiologist, with its related specializations. Three master’s degrees in Exercise and sport sciences (ESS) are offered by Italian high institutions with different purpose and distribution of the European credit transfer system (ECTS) credits. Those allocated to ESS area can be divided in two specific academic disciplines (ADs): physical training sciences and methodology (M-EDF/01) and sport sciences and methodology (M-EDF/02). The aim was twofold: first, to provide the exact measure of the ECTS credits distribution allocated to ESS area, both aggregated that disaggregated by M-EDF/01 and M-EDF/02 ADs, in the three different master’s degrees in ESS; second, to investigate their differences, to check their consistency with the professional profiles of kinesiologist. Methods The sample consisted of all the Italian master’s degree in ESS in 2022. The total no. of ECTS credits allocated to ESS area, both aggregated that disaggregated by M-EDF/01 and M-EDF/02 ADs, were collected through Universitaly portal. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were performed to analyze data. Results A great degree of heterogeneity within the same of degree course was found. The problem was not about the differences between the no. of ECTS credits allocated to ESS area among different degree courses, but within the same degree courses. From the scatter indices, the unevenness of the distribution of ECTS credits within the same degree courses and, consequently, the unrepresentativeness of the average, emerged. Conclusions The heterogeneity of ECTS credits distribution allocated to ESS area (both aggregated and disaggregated by ADs), generate different undergraduate education, which varies according to the University at which one enrolls. Systemic action is needed to ensure the same education to students that choose the same master’s degree course but in different sites.