Master’s Degree in Teaching Geography (7-12)

The Master’s degree in Teaching Geography (7-12) is a 2-year, 120 ECTS credit program designed to form highly qualified teachers in the field of geography. The program is offered by the University of Coimbra and is subject to changes following the publication of Decree-Law no. 9-A/2025, of 14th February.

General Objectives of the Course

The general objectives of the course are to:

1. Form highly qualified teachers able to perform teaching duties with scientific rigor and professional expertise.
2. Provide students with knowledge and expertise within their area of teaching, as well as a general educational and didactics background.
3. Enable students to transfer knowledge and skills from the area of teaching to specific school contexts.
4. Develop awareness of the social, ethical, and civic dimension of the teaching function.
5. Foster critical thinking, ability to reflect, and communicative competence in various relevant situations.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the program, candidates must meet the following conditions:

1. Hold a bachelor's degree or one of the qualifications referred to in paragraphs a) to c) of paragraph 1 of article 17 of Decree-Law No. 74/2006.
2. Have obtained 120 credits (ECTS) in the scientific area of Geography.
3. Have oral and written proficiency in the Portuguese language and mastery of the essential rules of logical and critical argumentation. Alternatively, candidates who meet the requirements of paragraphs a) and c) but not paragraph b) may apply if they have obtained 75% of the necessary credits (90 ECTS) in the teaching areas.

Professional Goals

The program aims to prepare students for teaching (7-12) and enables them to develop activities in the areas of culture and heritage.

Mode of Study

The program is offered in a daytime, full-time, and face-to-face mode.

Teaching/Evaluation Language

The teaching and evaluation language is Portuguese.

Examination Regulations, Assessment, and Grading

Assessment is a pedagogical activity inseparable from the teaching process, aiming to establish students' competencies and knowledge. Students may only register for exams for classes they are currently registered for. Assessment items include oral or written exams, written or practical work, individual and group projects, and class participation. Grading is based on a scale of 0 to 20, and a grade of 10 is required to pass.

Learning Objectives and Intended Skills

The program aims to:

1. Deepen and consolidate knowledge and skills in geography acquired in the bachelor's degree.
2. Enable students to apply their knowledge in planning and implementing substantiated classes.
3. Develop critical thinking and the ability to reflect on the social, ethical, and civic impact of teaching.
4. Foster communicative competence and participation within the school community.
5. Recognize the need for ongoing scientific, pedagogical, and didactic updates.

Course Coordinator(s)

The course coordinators are Maria de Fátima Grilo Velez de Castro and Paulo Nuno Maia de Sousa Nossa.

ECTS Departmental Coordinator(s)

The ECTS departmental coordinators are Albano Augusto Figueiredo Rodrigues and Luca António Dimuccio.

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

The legal framework for the qualification is established by the decrees: Decree-Law nr 74/2006, 24th March, in its current wording; Ordinance nr 782/2009, 23rd July; Decree-Law nr 79/2014, 14th May.

Graduation Requirements

The Master's degree is awarded to candidates who obtain the number of credits set to the master's cycle of studies by: a) Obtaining approval in all course units of the curriculum of the master's degree cycle. b) Obtaining approval in the public defense of the course unit report on supervised teaching practice.

Access to Further Studies

Graduates may proceed to PhD degree studies.

Study Programme

The study programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in teaching geography, including topics on primary and high school curricula.

Academic Year

The academic year is subject to change, and students should check the university's website for updates.

Course Type

The course type is a 2nd Cycle Studies - Advanced Specialisation Master Programme.

DGES Code

The DGES code is M824.

Qualification Awarded

The qualification awarded is a Master's degree.

Duration

The duration of the program is 2 years.

ECTS Credits

The program consists of 120 ECTS credits.

Category

The category is Advanced specialization second cycle.

Accreditations

The program is accredited by the 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.