IPVC Campuses

The Campus Principal in Viana do Castelo serves as the main hub of Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo (IPVC), hosting a wide range of academic programs and administrative services. This campus is home to several schools, including the School of Technology and Management and the School of Education, offering diverse courses that cater to both technical and humanistic fields.

• Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering)
• Management and Business Administration
• Education and Teacher Training
• Design and Multimedia
• Tourism and Hospitality Management

Students at this campus benefit from modern facilities, including laboratories, libraries, and collaborative spaces designed to foster innovation and learning. The campus is strategically located near the city center, providing easy access to cultural and recreational amenities. Programs are designed to align with regional and national needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the job market. The School of Technology and Management focuses on applied sciences and practical skills, while the School of Education emphasizes pedagogical training and social impact. Additionally, interdisciplinary projects and partnerships with local industries enhance the learning experience, offering students real-world applications of their studies. The campus also supports international exchange programs, promoting a global perspective among students and faculty. With a strong emphasis on research and community engagement, the Campus Principal plays a pivotal role in the development of the region, contributing to sustainable growth and innovation. Whether students are pursuing technical expertise or educational leadership, this campus provides a dynamic environment for academic and personal growth.

The Escola Superior Agrária (ESA) in Ponte de Lima is a specialized campus of Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, dedicated to agricultural and environmental sciences. Nestled in a rural setting, this campus offers a unique learning environment that combines theoretical education with hands-on fieldwork, reflecting the region’s strong agricultural heritage.

• Agricultural Engineering
• Environmental Management
• Animal Science and Veterinary Nursing
• Forestry and Natural Resources
• Organic Farming

The campus features experimental farms, greenhouses, and laboratories where students engage in practical training and research. Courses are designed to address contemporary challenges in sustainability, food security, and rural development. The Agricultural Engineering program focuses on modern farming techniques and technology, while Environmental Management trains students in conservation and ecological balance. Animal Science and Veterinary Nursing provide specialized skills for livestock care, and Forestry programs emphasize sustainable resource management. Organic Farming reflects the growing demand for eco-friendly agricultural practices. The campus collaborates with local farmers and organizations to promote innovation in the sector, offering students opportunities for internships and community projects. Its location in Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal’s oldest towns, also enriches the student experience with cultural and historical immersion. Research initiatives at ESA contribute to regional development, focusing on biodiversity, soil health, and climate adaptation. This campus is ideal for students passionate about nature, agriculture, and environmental stewardship, providing a solid foundation for careers in these vital fields.

The Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer (ESDL) in Melgaço is a campus of Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo focused on sports, leisure, and outdoor activities. Located in a scenic area near the Minho River, this campus leverages its natural surroundings to provide unique training opportunities in adventure sports and nature-based tourism.

• Sports and Physical Education
• Adventure Sports and Nature Tourism
• Leisure and Recreation Management
• Exercise and Health Sciences
• Outdoor Leadership

The campus is equipped with sports facilities, including fields, gyms, and access to river and mountain environments for practical training. The Sports and Physical Education program prepares students for teaching and coaching roles, while Adventure Sports and Nature Tourism focus on guiding and managing outdoor activities like rafting and hiking. Leisure and Recreation Management trains students in event planning and facility operations, and Exercise and Health Sciences emphasize fitness and wellness. Outdoor Leadership develops skills for leading groups in challenging environments. The campus promotes a healthy lifestyle and sustainable tourism, collaborating with local businesses to offer real-world experience. Its location in Melgaço, known for its natural beauty and thermal springs, enhances the learning environment, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor education. Research at ESDL often explores the intersection of sports, health, and environmental conservation. This campus is ideal for students passionate about active lifestyles and the outdoors, offering a dynamic setting to build careers in sports and leisure industries.

The Escola Superior de Saúde (ESS) in Viana do Castelo is a dedicated health sciences campus of Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo. This campus focuses on training professionals in various healthcare fields, combining theoretical knowledge with clinical practice to meet the needs of the healthcare sector.

• Nursing
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy
• Clinical Analysis and Public Health

The campus is equipped with simulation labs, clinical training rooms, and partnerships with local hospitals and health centers, ensuring students gain practical experience. The Nursing program prepares students for patient care across diverse settings, while Physiotherapy focuses on rehabilitation and mobility. Occupational Therapy trains students to support individuals with physical or mental challenges, and Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy covers diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Clinical Analysis and Public Health emphasize laboratory skills and disease prevention. The campus fosters a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration among future healthcare professionals. Its location in Viana do Castelo provides access to a supportive community and real-world healthcare environments for internships and placements. Research at ESS often addresses regional health challenges, contributing to improved care practices. The campus also promotes international partnerships, offering students opportunities for global learning experiences. With a strong emphasis on ethics and patient-centered care, ESS prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in healthcare, addressing both individual and community needs in a rapidly evolving field.

The Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Gestão (ESTG) in Valença is a campus of Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, focusing on technology and management disciplines. Located near the border with Spain, this campus offers a strategic position for cross-border collaboration and regional development initiatives.

• Computer Science and Information Systems
• Business Management
• Industrial Engineering and Management
• Accounting and Taxation
• Digital Marketing

The campus features modern computer labs, collaborative workspaces, and facilities tailored to technical and business education. The Computer Science and Information Systems program trains students in software development and IT solutions, while Business Management focuses on leadership and organizational skills. Industrial Engineering and Management combines technical and managerial expertise for process optimization, and Accounting and Taxation prepares students for financial roles. Digital Marketing addresses the growing need for online business strategies. The campus emphasizes applied learning, with projects and internships often linked to local and international companies. Its proximity to Spain facilitates partnerships and cultural exchange, enriching the student experience. Research at ESTG often explores innovation in technology and sustainable business practices, contributing to the economic growth of the region. The campus supports entrepreneurship through incubators and networking events, encouraging students to develop innovative ideas. With a focus on practical skills and industry relevance, ESTG in Valença prepares graduates for dynamic careers in technology and management, meeting the demands of a globalized economy.