Programme Structure and Content

The SAHC programme has duration of one academic year (60 ECTS credits) and is held on a rotating basis among partners. Coursework (September - March) is concentrated in two countries each year and dissertation work (April - July) is divided by all involved institutions. 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. Dissertation can be performed in any of the involved institutions.

It is expected that students carry out the entire coursework in one location and the dissertation in another location. Mobility track is based on students preferences taking into account adequate balance between different institutions. The curriculum is exactly the same, no matter the student mobility track.

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. A schematic course calendar can be found here.

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.