Instituto Politécnico do Cávado e do Ave

About

Instituto Politécnico do Cávado e do Ave (IPCA), located in Barcelos, Portugal, is a public polytechnic institute renowned for its practical, career-oriented education in applied sciences, technology, management, and design. It is particularly strong in areas like Management, Accounting, Computer Science, and Design, emphasizing hands-on learning and industry collaboration. For international students, IPCA offers a welcoming environment with a dedicated International Relations Office that facilitates exchange programs like Erasmus+, provides support services, and organizes integration activities. While the primary language of instruction is Portuguese, the institute offers a growing number of English-taught courses, especially for master's degrees and exchange students, and hosts international summer schools. A distinctive characteristic is its strong focus on entrepreneurship and fostering innovation through close ties with regional businesses.

Background

The Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, (Portuguese: Instituto Politécnico do Cávado e do Ave), is the youngest polytechnic institute in Portugal. It was created on December 19, 1994, in Barcelos, with two higher Schools: the Management School and the Technology School. The Management School provides four degree courses: Accounting and Public Finance, Management Accounting, Taxation and Solicitorship. The Technology School provides four degrees as well: Health Informatics, Graphic Design, Industrial Design and Management Information Systems. As of 2007 both schools counted over 1400 students enrolled in the various courses degrees available.

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