Study Abroad Programs in Porto, Portugal

Portugal, a thriving nation that once ranged widely throughout the world, is still a nexus of European commerce and ideas — there’s no better place to diversify your learning than Porto, where the ships (and new concepts!) enter the country.

Popular subjects to study. Health Sciences is one of the most chosen when studying in Porto, followed by Technology and Business, which come up high on the list for students interested in studying in universities in particular. At the same time, the local architecture and history are excellent topics to cover in your program specifically because of the local access to examples of important moments in European history as well as beautiful designs in the buildings that line the rua, or streets. Just taking a stroll can turn into a lesson by the banks of the Douro river.

Short term and summer programs vs. long term programs. Selecting a longer course of study in Porto, like a year long or semester long program, gives you a chance to really dive into the language and culture of the place while also noticing how modern Portugal is experiencing technological, business, and scientific growth. Selecting a short-term program, on the other hand, can allow you to package an affordable part of your education into what might be a longer course of study in other cities and countries, or to fit it in between terms at your home institution.

Attending universities vs. other program type. While studying in Porto, you will find a variety of courses and degrees offered in a traditional university setting at University Fernando Pessoa, many of which are taught in English. At the same time, low-cost programs that operate through institutes of education around the city offer the chance to dive deep into studies. These programs also allow the local culture to teach you in areas that are even outside some of the more traditional disciplines in college.