For the academic year 2025/2026, I serve as Contract Professor at the University of Parma within the Master’s Degree Programme in Data Science for Management. I am responsible for the course Sensitive Data Treatment, delivered in the first year, second semester.
Course Overview and Teaching Methodology
The course is taught in English, includes 63 hours of face‑to‑face teaching, and awards 9 ECTS credits. It is classified as a characterising activity in the legal, business, linguistic, and social training area, under the academic discipline Private Law (IUS/01).
The course provides a structured introduction to the legal and operational principles governing the management of sensitive data. It covers the main regulatory frameworks, organisational responsibilities, and the methods required to ensure compliant and responsible data processing. The teaching approach combines theoretical foundations with practical examples, case discussions, and analysis of real organisational scenarios.
Professional Contributions
To support the study of specific technical topics, the course also includes contributions from qualified external professionals. Leading practitioners such as SIDEGROUP, Facundo Nunes, Andrea Franceschini, and Lorenzo Bonazzi offer insights on advanced operational practices, sector challenges, and real‑world applications. Their participation strengthens the connection between academic learning and professional experience, providing students with a broader and more concrete understanding of data protection issues.
Academic Environment
The class is of a high academic standard. Students participate with strong motivation and consistent engagement, contributing to a constructive and dynamic learning environment. Their preparation and interest in the legal, technical, and ethical dimensions of data protection foster an effective dialogue and allow for in‑depth examination of the topics addressed during the course.
Skills and Outcomes
My teaching activity aims to promote a clear understanding of data protection principles and to support the development of professional skills that are essential for future data scientists and managers. Contributing to the academic path of the students of the University of Parma represents an important opportunity to share knowledge and to encourage responsible practices in the management of sensitive information.
Simona Bia