PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND CONTENT

The MSc has duration of one academic year and is held on a rotating basis among partners. Coursework (October - March) is concentrated in two countries each year and dissertation work (April - July) is divided by all involved Institutions. It is expected that students carry out the entire coursework in one location and the dissertation in another location. For 2007/2008 and odd years, the coursework will be held in Portugal and Czech Republic. For 2008/2009 and even years, the coursework will be held in Italy and Spain. The study programme is composed of eight units, with six sequential units, one unit project-based and one dissertation. The units are as follows:

• SA 1: History of Construction and of Conservation
• SA 2: Structural Analysis Techniques
• SA 3: Seismic Behaviour and Structural Dynamics
• SA 4: Inspection and Diagnosis
• SA 5: Repairing and Strengthening Techniques
• SA 6: Restoration and Conservation of Materials
• SA 7: Integrated Project
• SA 8: Dissertation

Units SA 1 to SA 6 are arranged as a mix of theory and application, in a context of a project-led education. The Integrated Project is s truly project-based course, includes a mini group project to solve a real engineering problem, with site visits, and the preparation of a proposal work plan for the dissertation. Lectures are held from 9:30h to 12:30h and individual/group work is carried out at University from 14:00h to 19:00h.

The Dissertation aims at developing research and/or professional competences in the field of conservation and restoration of architectural heritage structures.

The degree awarded is a Master’s degree, provided as a double degree from the institutions involved.