The University of Palermo, founded in 1806, covers today almost the full spectrum of arts and sciences. The academic structures include: 16 Departments, 2 inter-departmental centres, 1 School of Medicine, 3 decentralised premises (Agrigento, Trapani, Caltanissetta), the Museum System, the Language Centre, the Italian school for foreign students, the Guidance Centre. The Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement (SPPEFF) has an interdisciplinary vocation as it includes among its areas of teaching and research psychology, pedagogy, human movement (motor and sport sciences), and sociology.

There is also a training area, focused on the study and design of professionalization courses for teachers and/or educators involved in formal/non formal education and adult education. In addition to teaching and research activities, the Department SPPEFF aims at promoting activities to exploit the findings of its research activities as well to transfer its knowledge in the reference territory (Public Engagement/Third Mission).