Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

Shaping tomorrow's leaders in social and political science.

📍 Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹

Quick Facts about Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

  • Tuition: $3,000 – $6,000/year
  • Intakes: Fall

About Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

The Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas (ISCSP) is a public university in Lisbon, Portugal, and an organic unit of the University of Lisbon (ULisboa). Founded in 1906, ISCSP has over a century of tradition in education and research in the social and political sciences, aiming to foster human, cultural, scientific, and technical development.

Academics

ISCSP offers a diverse range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs in the fields of Social and Political Sciences. Key areas of study include Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, Social Policy, Anthropology, and Social Communication. The teaching approach emphasizes both fundamental and applied research, with the institution hosting several research units recognized by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), such as the Centre for Public Administration and Public Policies (CAPP) and the Interdisciplinary Centre for Gender Studies.

International Students

ISCSP welcomes international students and provides support services to ensure a smooth transition and integration. While most classes are taught in Portuguese, lecturers may agree to hold assessment tests in other languages if known by both the lecturer and students, and the university promotes an A1 Portuguese Language Course. The institution offers opportunities for international mobility and cooperation, and its staff is available to assist exchange students from the initial expression of interest through to their departure.

Campus & Location

ISCSP is situated on the Alto da Ajuda University Campus in Lisbon, a vibrant and historic capital city. The campus is accessible via various public transportation options, including several bus lines that connect to different parts of the city and metro stations. Lisbon offers a rich cultural experience with numerous attractions, and the university's location provides students with access to both academic resources and the dynamic life of a major European city.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from ISCSP have strong employment prospects, with the University of Lisbon reporting high employability rates for its degree programs. The institution's focus on social and political sciences prepares students for diverse career paths in government, non-profit organizations, international agencies, and academic institutions. ISCSP's diploma is recognized nationally and within Europe, opening doors for graduates in various professional fields.

Information for International Students at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas in Lisbon, Portugal welcomes international students.

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

Programs at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas (34 programs)

Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas offers 34 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (7)

  • Political Science (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    Students explore political systems, theories, and behaviors, gaining critical analytical skills to understand and engage with national and international political landscapes.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Political Advisor, Journalist, Researcher
  • International Relations (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    This program focuses on global politics, diplomacy, international law, and economic relations, preparing students for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, and global business.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Organization Officer, Foreign Policy Analyst
  • Communication Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    This program explores various forms of communication, media studies, and digital strategies, preparing students for careers in journalism, public relations, and marketing.
    Field: Communication Sciences
    Career outcomes: Journalist, PR Specialist, Marketing Professional, Content Creator
  • Public Administration (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of public sector management, policy analysis, and governance, preparing them for careers in government and public organizations.
    Field: Public Administration
    Career outcomes: Public Servant, Policy Analyst, Local Government Official
  • Sociology (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    Students learn to critically analyze social structures, human behavior, and cultural phenomena, developing research skills applicable to various social contexts.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Sociologist, Market Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
  • Social Policy (BSc) — 36 months · Portuguese
    The program examines social problems, welfare systems, and policy interventions, equipping students with the knowledge to analyze and contribute to social development and justice.
    Field: Social Policy
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Policy Researcher, Community Development Officer
  • Social Work (BA) — 36 months · Portuguese
    This program prepares students for professional practice in social work, focusing on intervention strategies, social justice, and supporting vulnerable populations.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Organizer

Master Programs (20)

  • Sociology: Social Intervention, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This master's program combines sociological theory with practical skills in social intervention, innovation, and entrepreneurship, addressing contemporary social challenges.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Social Project Manager, Social Entrepreneur, Consultant, Researcher
  • Communication, Culture and Information Technologies (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program explores the intersection of communication, culture, and digital technologies, focusing on media trends, digital strategies, and their societal impact.
    Field: Communication Sciences
    Career outcomes: Digital Strategist, Media Analyst, Cultural Manager, IT Communication Specialist
  • Political Science and International Relations (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    An advanced program focusing on contemporary political issues, international security, and global governance, designed for those seeking expertise in political analysis and international affairs.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Political Consultant, International Affairs Analyst, Researcher, Policy Maker
  • Public Administration and Public Policy (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    An advanced study of public sector management, policy analysis, and governance, preparing students for leadership roles in public and non-profit organizations.
    Field: Public Administration
    Career outcomes: Senior Public Administrator, Policy Analyst, Government Consultant, Public Sector Manager
  • Master in Political Communication (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program focuses on the dynamics of political communication, electoral campaigns, and public opinion, preparing students for roles in political advising, media, and public affairs.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Political Advisor, Campaign Manager, Public Affairs Specialist, Political Journalist
  • Human Resources Management (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program focuses on strategic human resource planning, talent management, organizational development, and labor relations, preparing students for leadership roles in HR.
    Field: Human Resources
    Career outcomes: HR Manager, HR Consultant, Organizational Development Specialist
  • Master in Social Gerontology (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program addresses the social aspects of aging, focusing on policies, services, and interventions for an aging population, preparing professionals in social care and public health.
    Field: Gerontology
    Career outcomes: Gerontologist, Social Worker, Public Health Specialist, Policy Advisor on Aging
  • Master in Marketing and Communication (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    An advanced program covering strategic marketing, digital communication, and brand management, equipping students with skills for leadership roles in the marketing and communication industries.
    Field: Marketing
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Communication Director, Brand Strategist, Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Communication and Media Studies (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese
    Explores theories and practices of communication, media production, and digital strategies, equipping students for careers in media, public relations, and corporate communication.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Communications Manager, Media Strategist, Public Relations Specialist
  • Master in European Studies (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    An interdisciplinary program examining the political, economic, and social dimensions of the European Union, preparing students for careers in European institutions and related fields.
    Field: European Studies
    Career outcomes: European Affairs Specialist, EU Policy Analyst, International Consultant
  • Marketing and Communication (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    Focuses on strategic marketing, digital communication, and brand management, equipping students with the skills to develop and execute effective communication strategies in various sectors.
    Field: Marketing and Communication
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Communications Director, Brand Strategist
  • Master in Strategic Studies (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    Focusing on defense, security, and strategic analysis, this program provides a deep understanding of international conflicts, military operations, and geopolitical dynamics.
    Field: Strategic Studies
    Career outcomes: Security Analyst, Defense Consultant, International Relations Specialist
  • Management and Public Policy (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program integrates management principles with public policy analysis, preparing students for leadership roles in public, non-profit, and hybrid organizations.
    Field: Management and Public Policy
    Career outcomes: Public Sector Manager, Policy Consultant, Non-profit Leader
  • Master in Sociology (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program provides advanced sociological theory and research methods, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to the understanding of contemporary social issues.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Sociological Researcher, University Lecturer, Social Data Analyst
  • Master in Social Policy (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    Focusing on the design, implementation, and evaluation of social policies, this program equips students with advanced skills to address complex social challenges and promote equity.
    Field: Social Policy
    Career outcomes: Social Policy Analyst, Program Evaluator, Social Researcher
  • Master in Communication and Media Studies (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program explores contemporary communication theories, media landscapes, and digital strategies, preparing students for careers in media, public relations, and digital communication.
    Field: Communication and Media Studies
    Career outcomes: Communications Manager, Media Analyst, Journalist
  • Master in Public Administration (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This master's program deepens understanding of public management, policy formulation, and implementation, focusing on advanced analytical and leadership skills for public sector professionals.
    Field: Public Administration
    Career outcomes: Senior Public Administrator, Policy Consultant, Government Manager
  • Master in Human Resources Management (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program covers advanced topics in human resources, including talent management, organizational development, and labor relations, preparing students for leadership roles in HR.
    Field: Human Resources Management
    Career outcomes: HR Manager, HR Consultant, Organizational Development Specialist
  • Master in Political Science (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    Advanced study of political theories, comparative politics, and research methodologies, preparing students for academic careers or high-level political analysis roles.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Political Scientist, Academic Researcher, Political Strategist
  • Master in International Relations (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese
    This program offers in-depth knowledge of international affairs, global governance, and security studies, fostering expertise for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and global security.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: International Affairs Analyst, Diplomatic Corps, NGO Program Manager

PhD Programs (7)

  • PhD in International Relations (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in international affairs, global security, and foreign policy, preparing scholars for academic and high-level policy roles.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: Academic, International Policy Advisor, Diplomatic Analyst
  • Organizational Behavior and Human Resources (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    A doctoral program for in-depth research into organizational dynamics, human behavior in the workplace, and advanced human resource management theories and practices.
    Field: Organizational Behavior
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Organizational Consultant, Senior HR Strategist
  • PhD in Sociology (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    This doctoral program offers advanced training in sociological theory and research, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to the understanding of social phenomena.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, University Lecturer, Social Policy Expert
  • PhD in Communication Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in communication theories, media studies, and digital communication, fostering original contributions to the field.
    Field: Communication Sciences
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Media Researcher, Communication Consultant
  • PhD in Political Science (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    A doctoral program for in-depth research into political phenomena, theories, and systems, culminating in a significant original contribution to the field of political science.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Think Tank Analyst
  • PhD in Public Administration (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    An advanced research program dedicated to exploring complex issues in public management, governance, and public policy, leading to original scholarly contributions.
    Field: Public Administration
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Government Consultant, Public Policy Researcher
  • PhD in Strategic Studies (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese
    An advanced research program dedicated to critical analysis of strategic issues, defense policies, and international security, leading to significant scholarly contributions.
    Field: Strategic Studies
    Career outcomes: Academic, Defense Analyst, Strategic Advisor

Scholarships & Tuition at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

Annual tuition for international students: $3,000 – $6,000/year

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

Campus & Facilities at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

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

Key Highlights

  • Century-old social and political education
  • Diverse social and political programs
  • FCT-recognized research units
  • International student support and mobility
  • Vibrant Lisbon campus location

Fields of Study at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

  • Political Science
  • Sociology
  • International Relations
  • Public Administration
  • Social Work

Frequently Asked Questions about Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

What is Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas?

Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas is a university located in Lisbon, Portugal. .

How much does it cost to study at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas?

Tuition fees at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas for international students range from $3,000 – $6,000/year.

How many programs does Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas offer?

Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas offers 34 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 20 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.

How Abroadly Helps You Study at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas

Abroadly is an AI-powered platform that manages your entire study abroad journey — not just university search. Here's how we help students applying to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas in Portugal:

🎯 Phase 1: Exploration & University Matching

Our AI matches you to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas based on your GPA, budget, test scores, and career goals. Compare programs, tuition, scholarships, and admission requirements side-by-side.

📝 Phase 2: Application & SOP Generation

AI generates personalized Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and motivation essays tailored to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas's requirements. Get per-university document checklists and deadline tracking.

✅ Phase 3: Post-Acceptance & Enrollment

Once accepted to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas, Abroadly helps you review offer letters, pay tuition deposits, arrange student housing (available at this university), activate health insurance, and complete enrollment steps.

🛂 Phase 4: Visa Processing & Embassy Prep

Get AI-guided visa document preparation for Portugal: embassy appointment booking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly (proof of funds), and country-specific document checklists.

✈️ Phase 5: Pre-Departure & Travel

After your visa is approved: banking setup in Portugal, orientation registration at Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas, emergency contact registration, health insurance activation, accommodation confirmation, and travel booking guidance — all tracked in your dashboard.

Apply to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas with Abroadly — University Search to Visa to Landing

Use Abroadly's AI to manage your complete journey to Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas: university matching, SOP & cover letter generation, application tracking, visa processing, embassy interview prep, and pre-departure planning — all in one platform.

What you get: AI-generated SOPs, per-university document checklists, embassy appointment tracking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly, pre-departure checklists, and 24/7 AI advisor support.

Explore All Features | For Students | For Agencies | Pricing

Explore More Universities