Are There English-Taught Programs in Portugal? (2024)

Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for international students, thanks to its excellent universities, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. One of the key factors contributing to this rise is the availability of English-taught programs in Portugal. If you’re considering studying in this country but are concerned about the language barrier, you’ll be pleased to know that Portugal offers a wide variety of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in English.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the types of English-taught programs available, the universities offering them, their entry requirements, and the benefits of studying in Portugal.

Why Choose Portugal for English-Taught Programs?

Portugal offers a unique combination of affordable education, high-quality institutions, and a rich cultural experience. But why should you consider studying an English-taught program here?

Affordable Education: Tuition fees in Portugal are generally lower compared to other European countries. You can expect to pay anywhere from €3,000 to €7,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
International Environment: Universities in Portugal have been attracting more and more international students every year, creating a multicultural atmosphere.
Recognition in Europe and Beyond: Degrees earned in Portugal are recognized across the European Union and internationally, making it an excellent choice for students who wish to work globally.
Vibrant Student Life: From beautiful coastlines to lively city life, Portugal offers a wide variety of leisure activities. The warm climate and rich history also make it a fantastic destination for students.

Types of English-Taught Programs in Portugal

Portugal offers a range of programs in English at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Below are the most common types:

1. Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs in English

English-taught bachelor’s programs are growing in popularity in Portugal, especially in fields like Business, Tourism, and Engineering. Some prominent programs include:

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Institution: Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE), Lisbon
- Program Length: 3 years
- Tuition Fees: Approximately €7,000/year
Bachelor in Tourism
- Institution: Universidade Europeia, Lisbon
- Program Length: 3 years
- Tuition Fees: €5,000/year
Bachelor in Software Engineering
- Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), Lisbon
- Program Length: 3 years
- Tuition Fees: Around €4,500/year

2. Master’s Programs in English

Master’s degrees in English are more widespread and cover a range of disciplines, from engineering and technology to social sciences and business management. Here are some popular options:

Master in International Management
- Institution: ISCTE Business School, Lisbon
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Tuition Fees: €6,000/year
Master in Environmental Engineering
- Institution: Universidade do Porto
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tuition Fees: €4,500/year
Master in Data Science
- Institution: Nova IMS, Lisbon
- Program Length: 1.5 years
- Tuition Fees: Approximately €7,000/year

3. Doctoral (PhD) Programs in English

Portugal also offers various English-taught PhD programs, particularly in STEM fields, social sciences, and business:

PhD in Economics
- Institution: Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon
- Program Length: 3-4 years
- Tuition Fees: €3,000/year
PhD in Computer Science
- Institution: University of Porto
- Program Length: 4 years
- Tuition Fees: €2,500/year

Top Universities in Portugal Offering English-Taught Programs

Several Portuguese universities have become known for their English-taught offerings. Here are some of the top institutions you should consider:

Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE)
- Located in Carcavelos, Nova SBE is one of the most prestigious business schools in Portugal. They offer multiple English-taught bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in Business, Economics, and Finance.
Universidade de Lisboa
- Portugal’s largest university offers several master’s and PhD programs in English, primarily in the fields of Science and Technology.
Universidade do Porto
- Known for its high academic standards, the University of Porto offers various English-taught master’s and PhD programs, particularly in Engineering, Science, and Health-related fields.
Instituto Superior Técnico (IST)
- As part of the University of Lisbon, IST is a leading institution for technical and engineering studies, offering a number of English-taught programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Entry Requirements for English-Taught Programs in Portugal

Each program and institution has its specific entry requirements, but there are general criteria that you should be prepared to meet:

Academic Qualifications:
- For undergraduate programs, you will need to provide proof of secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent). For master’s and PhD programs, a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree is required.
English Language Proficiency:
- You may need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Minimum scores typically range from:
  - IELTS: 6.0-6.5
  - TOEFL iBT: 80-90
Additional Tests:
- Some programs, particularly those in Business or Management, may require GMAT or GRE scores.
Application Process:
- The application process usually involves submitting academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Benefits of Studying an English-Taught Program in Portugal

1. Quality of Education

Portugal’s universities are well-regarded in Europe and globally, with many ranked among the top institutions worldwide. This guarantees that students receive a high-quality education.

2. Networking Opportunities

Studying in Portugal, especially in business-oriented programs, provides excellent networking opportunities due to the country’s growing connections in the European and global job markets.

3. Affordable Living Costs

Compared to other Western European countries, Portugal offers a relatively low cost of living. A student can expect to spend around €800-€1,200 per month, depending on the city.

4. Post-Graduation Opportunities

Portugal offers post-graduation work opportunities through its work visa schemes. Upon graduation, international students may be eligible for a residence permit to search for a job or start a business in the country.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an affordable, high-quality education in Europe, Portugal is an excellent choice. The availability of English-taught programs, combined with the country’s vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and fantastic weather, makes it an attractive option for international students.

Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, or social sciences, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in Portugal to further your education in English, setting you up for success in the global job market.

FAQs

1. Are there undergraduate programs in Portugal taught entirely in English?

Yes, there are several undergraduate programs, especially in fields like Business and Engineering, offered by top universities such as Nova SBE and Instituto Superior Técnico.

2. What are the entry requirements for English-taught programs in Portugal?

Entry requirements vary by program, but generally, you’ll need academic qualifications, proof of English language proficiency, and, for some programs, standardized test scores like GMAT or GRE.

3. Is the cost of living high in Portugal for international students?

No, the cost of living in Portugal is relatively affordable compared to other European countries, ranging from €800 to €1,200 per month depending on your lifestyle and location.

4. Can I work in Portugal after graduation?

Yes, international students are eligible to apply for a residence permit to search for a job or start a business in Portugal after graduation.