University of Beira Interior

UBI: Igniting futures, shaping leaders, innovating for the world.

📍 Covilhã, Portugal 🇵🇹

🏆 #11 in Portugal · THE World #601 · ARWU #901

Quick Facts about University of Beira Interior

  • Founded: 1979
  • Tuition: $1,500 – $3,000/year
  • Intakes: Fall

About University of Beira Interior

The University of Beira Interior (UBI) is a public university in Covilhã, Portugal, established in 1979. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees across various fields, aiming to develop leaders and prepare students for professional and personal challenges. UBI is recognized nationally and internationally for its commitment to education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Academics

UBI is structured into five faculties: Arts and Letters, Sciences, Health Sciences, Social and Human Sciences, and Engineering. The university offers around 31 Bachelor's degrees, 40 Master's degrees, and 30 Doctorates, adhering to the Bologna three-cycle structure with a student-centered teaching approach. Notable programs span fields from medicine, biochemistry, and biomedical sciences to aeronautical engineering, fashion design, and industrial design. UBI emphasizes multidisciplinary strengths, with research units like Fibre Materials and Environmental Technologies (FibEnTech) including researchers from diverse fields such as Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Management, and Computer Sciences.

International Students

UBI prioritizes internationalization, actively attracting students from Portuguese-speaking countries and beyond. While most classes are taught in Portuguese, a limited number of courses are available in English, and the university also offers Portuguese language courses. Support services for international students include accommodation in seven university residence halls, food services with subsidized meal prices, and free medical and nursing services. The Erasmus Student Network (ESN Covilhã) provides support for cultural integration, helping exchange students adapt to academic and local communities.

Campus & Location

UBI's campus is well integrated into the urban network of Covilhã, a charming city nestled in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, known for its historical significance in wool and textile production. The university's facilities include three libraries, seven halls of residence, and various sports facilities. Covilhã offers a unique blend of old and new, with a well-preserved historic center and modern amenities. The city serves as a gateway to the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities, including Portugal's only ski resort just 20 km away. Covilhã is accessible by bus and train from Lisbon and Porto, with journeys taking approximately 3.5 hours.

Career Outcomes

UBI is recognized for its strong links to society and the business world, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The university aims to increase employability and has research initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, competitiveness, and innovation. UBI collaborates with industry, as seen in partnerships with companies like Empowered Startups, which focuses on developing R&D startups and bringing investment to Portugal. The university's career services and industry connections help equip students with the skills needed for a rapidly evolving global landscape, with platforms like Link2UBI connecting students with professionals and alumni worldwide.

Information for International Students at University of Beira Interior

University of Beira Interior in Covilhã, Portugal welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available

Admissions Requirements for University of Beira Interior

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Beira Interior:

  • Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)

Programs at University of Beira Interior (27 programs)

University of Beira Interior offers 27 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (12)

  • Civil Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including buildings, bridges, and transportation systems.
    Field: Civil Engineering
    Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant
  • Fashion Design (BA) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program cultivates creativity and technical skills in fashion design, covering areas from concept development to garment construction and collection presentation.
    Field: Fashion Design
    Career outcomes: Fashion Designer, Pattern Maker, Stylist, Fashion Merchandiser
  • Industrial Management (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program combines engineering principles with management techniques to optimize industrial processes, supply chains, and production systems.
    Field: Industrial Management
    Career outcomes: Industrial Manager, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Process Improvement Specialist
  • Political Science and International Relations (BA) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program examines political systems, international relations, and global governance, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, public administration, and international organizations.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Relations Specialist, Public Administrator
  • Cinema (BA) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program provides a comprehensive education in filmmaking, covering directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and sound design, preparing students for careers in the film industry.
    Field: Arts and Humanities
    Career outcomes: Film Director, Screenwriter, Cinematographer, Film Editor, Producer
  • Management (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program provides a solid foundation in business management, covering areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and operations.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Financial Analyst, HR Manager
  • Optometry and Vision Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program trains students in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of visual system disorders, preparing them for a career in optometry.
    Field: Optometry
    Career outcomes: Optometrist, Vision Therapist, Optical Dispenser, Researcher
  • Economics (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program provides a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and policy analysis, preparing students for careers in finance, government, or further academic study.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst
  • Biomedical Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the application of engineering principles to medicine and biology, covering areas like medical instrumentation, biomechanics, and rehabilitation engineering.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer, Researcher
  • Communication Sciences (BA) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This program explores various aspects of communication, including journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital media, preparing students for careers in media and communication.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Professional, Content Creator
  • Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program provides a strong foundation in pure and applied mathematics, developing analytical and problem-solving skills essential for various scientific and technical fields.
    Field: Mathematics
    Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Analyst, Actuary, Educator
  • Environmental Engineering (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on developing solutions for environmental problems, including pollution control, waste management, and sustainable resource utilization.
    Field: Environmental Engineering
    Career outcomes: Environmental Engineer, Sustainability Consultant, Waste Management Specialist, Environmental Analyst

Master Programs (8)

  • Electromechanical Engineering (MSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This integrated master's program combines mechanical and electrical engineering principles, focusing on the design and operation of electromechanical systems.
    Field: Electromechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Electromechanical Engineer, Automation Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Maintenance Engineer
  • Applied Management (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This master's program focuses on practical management skills and strategic decision-making, with specializations in areas like marketing, finance, and human resources.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: Manager, Consultant, Business Analyst, Entrepreneur
  • Architecture (MSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This integrated master's program provides comprehensive training in architectural design, urban planning, and building technology, preparing students for professional practice.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Project Manager, Consultant
  • Psychology (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This master's program offers advanced training in various fields of psychology, including clinical psychology, educational psychology, and organizational psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor, Researcher
  • Computer Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in advanced topics of computer science, including artificial intelligence, software engineering, and cybersecurity.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Textile Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This master's program focuses on advanced topics in textile science and technology, including smart textiles, sustainable processes, and textile composites.
    Field: Textile Engineering
    Career outcomes: Textile Engineer, Product Developer, Quality Control Manager, Researcher
  • Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced study in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, with a focus on research.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Chemist, Researcher, Quality Control Specialist, Product Developer
  • Design (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · €697/yr
    This master's program offers advanced studies in various design disciplines, including product design, graphic design, and interaction design, with a focus on innovation.
    Field: Design
    Career outcomes: Product Designer, Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer, Design Consultant

PhD Programs (7)

  • Biotechnology (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in biotechnology, covering areas such as molecular biology, genetic engineering, and bioprocess technology.
    Field: Biotechnology
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Biotechnologist, R&D Scientist
  • PhD in Design (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr
    This doctoral program explores advanced theoretical and practical aspects of design, fostering innovative research in areas such as product design, communication design, and design for sustainability.
    Field: Design
    Career outcomes: Design Researcher, University Professor, Design Strategist, Innovation Consultant
  • PhD in Management (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in management, exploring topics such as strategic management, organizational behavior, and innovation, preparing students for academic or high-level consulting careers.
    Field: Business and Management
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Researcher, Business Strategist
  • PhD in Civil Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research in civil engineering, covering structural engineering, hydraulics, transportation, and construction management, contributing to infrastructure development.
    Field: Civil Engineering
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Senior Civil Engineer, Infrastructure Consultant
  • Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various fields of physics, including theoretical physics, condensed matter, and astrophysics.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Scientist, R&D Specialist
  • PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr · STEM
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in biomedical sciences, covering areas such as molecular biology, pharmacology, and medical biotechnology, leading to significant scientific contributions.
    Field: Biomedical Sciences
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Biotech Scientist, Medical Scientist
  • PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · €697/yr · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various computer science domains, including artificial intelligence, data science, and distributed systems, contributing to cutting-edge knowledge.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Researcher, University Professor, Lead Data Scientist, AI Engineer

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Beira Interior

Annual tuition for international students: $1,500 – $3,000/year

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of University of Beira Interior

  • National Ranking: #11 in Portugal
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
  • Ranking tier: Unranked

Campus & Facilities at University of Beira Interior

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • No disability support info

Key Highlights

  • Diverse academic offerings
  • Strong research and innovation
  • International student focus
  • Portuguese language support
  • Campus integrated into city
  • Mountain city location

Fields of Study at University of Beira Interior

  • Engineering
  • Science
  • Arts
  • Medicine
  • Social Sciences

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Beira Interior

What is University of Beira Interior?

University of Beira Interior is a university located in Covilhã, Portugal, founded in 1979. .

How much does it cost to study at University of Beira Interior?

Tuition fees at University of Beira Interior for international students range from $1,500 – $3,000/year.

What are the admission requirements for University of Beira Interior?

Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%).

How many programs does University of Beira Interior offer?

University of Beira Interior offers 27 programs: 12 Bachelor's, 8 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is University of Beira Interior ranked?

#11 in Portugal · THE World #601 · ARWU #901.

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