PhD Degree in Steel and Composite Construction

The doctoral course in Steel and Composite Construction aims to provide high-level specialized training in the field of Steel and Composite Construction in a comprehensive perspective that includes the area of Structural Performance (STR) and Functional Performance (FUNC).

General Objectives of the Course

The course provides high-level specialized training in the field of Steel and Composite Construction, covering areas such as structural design, fire design, seismic design, rehabilitation, structures for offshore and renewable energies, thermal and acoustic performance, sustainability, and more.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must be:
  • Holders of a master's degree in Metallic and Mixed Construction or any other appropriate training, namely, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Engineering, Architecture, or legal equivalent.
  • Holders of a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Engineering, Architecture, or another degree with appropriate training with at least 5 years of academic training in Higher Education, full time, or equivalent when it comes to the degree obtained abroad.
  • Holders of a school, scientific or professional curriculum relevant for pursuing this cycle of studies as recognized by the scientific Committee of FCTUC.
• The recognition referred to in subparagraphs b) and c) of paragraph 1 only allows access to the cycle of studies leading to a PhD Degree and does not grant its holder the recognition or equivalence to a bachelor’s or master’s Degree.

Professional Goals

• Works in the subsector of construction related to the design, production, execution, supervision, and management of construction works with steel, timber, glass, or composite structure.
• Participation in scientific research projects in the area.
• Academic career in high education institutions.

Mode of Study

• Face-to-face.

Teaching / Evaluation Language

• Portuguese.

Examination Regulations, Assessment, and Grading

• Assessment is a pedagogical activity inseparable from the teaching process, aiming to establish the students' competencies and knowledge, their critical sense, ability to recognize and resolve problems, as well as their written and oral presentation skills.
• Students may only register for exams for classes they are currently registered for under the terms of number 6 of article 4 of the University of Coimbra Pedagogical Policy.
• Examples of assessment items include oral or written exams, written or practical work, individual and group projects that may require an oral defense, as well as class participation.
• Grading is based on a scale of 0 to 20, and a grade of 10 is required to pass.
• Whenever the grade comprises more than one item, the final grade is calculated by taking into account the relative weight of each item according to a formula published in the course outline under the terms of number 2 of article 7 of the UC Pedagogical Policy.

Learning Objectives and Intended Skills

• During the study cycle, the student acquires high-level knowledge in the area of steel and composite construction, namely in the thematics of structural performance and functional performance of structures.
• A close collaboration between research centers of excellence, with industry and professional organizations, is promoted, leading not only to advanced theoretical training and the development of knowledge in this area but also to the enhancement of this knowledge by a network in order to transfer it to the industry.

Course Coordinator

• Helena Maria dos Santos Gervásio.

Recognition of Prior Learning

• Recognition of prior learning is carried out in accordance with the Academic Regulation of the University of Coimbra.

Qualification Requirements and Regulations

• Decree-Law no. 74/2006, 24th of March, in its current version.

Graduation Requirements

• Approval of a total of 180 ECTS (Thesis 120 ECTS + Thesis Project 30 ECTS) + the optional course units from the 1st year.

Study Programme

• The study programme includes the course units from the 1st year and the thesis project.

Academic Year

• The academic year is divided into semesters.

Course Type

• 3rd Cycle Studies.

Qualification Awarded

• PhD Degree in Steel and Composite Construction.

Duration

• 6 semesters.

ECTS Credits

• 180.0.

Annual Fee

• 2750.0.

Accreditations

• Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior.

Universidade de Coimbra

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Overview:

Universidade de Coimbra is a public research university located in Coimbra, Portugal. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, with a rich history dating back to 1290. The university is renowned for its academic excellence, particularly in the fields of law, medicine, and humanities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of cultural and sporting activities. Students can participate in the university's theater, music, and dance programs, as well as its sports teams. The university also has a number of student clubs and organizations.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Historical Significance:

Universidade de Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering students a unique opportunity to study in a historic and culturally rich environment.

Academic Excellence:

The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in Portugal and internationally, offering high-quality academic programs.

International Reputation:

Universidade de Coimbra has a strong international reputation, attracting students and faculty from around the world.

Research Opportunities:

The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects.

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Academic Programs:

Universidade de Coimbra offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Undergraduate Studies:

  • Licenciaturas (Bachelor's degrees)
  • Mestrados integrados (Integrated Master's degrees)

• Postgraduate Studies:

  • Mestrados (Master's degrees)
  • Doutoramentos (Doctoral degrees)

• Other Courses:

  • Ensino a distância (Distance learning)
  • Cursos preparatórios (Preparatory courses)
  • Aprender português (Portuguese language courses)

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Other:

The university has three campuses, 16 libraries, two museums, one theater, two stadiums, one botanic garden, 14 residences, and 18 canteens and cafeterias. It also has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives such as solar panels and waste sorting programs.