Program structure

The SAHC programme has a duration of one academic year (60 ECTS credits) and is held on a rotating basis among partners. Coursework (September – March) is concentrated at University of Minho and dissertation work (April – July) can be performed in any of the involved institutions. It is expected, but not mandatory, 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.

Changes of mobility path from the one defined by the Consortium and informed to the candidate will not be accepted, unless for exceptional reasons. Any student requesting a change in path must provide a substantiated request before the start of the program. After the start of the program, no changes will be allowed.

The study programme is composed of eight units, with six sequential units, one unit project-based and one dissertation. The units are as follows:

• SA1: History of Construction and of Conservation
• SA2: Structural Analysis Techniques
• SA3: Seismic Behaviour and Structural Dynamics
• SA4: Inspection and Diagnosis
• SA5: Repairing and Strengthening Techniques
• SA6: Restoration and Conservation of Materials
• SA7: Integrated Project
• SA8: Dissertation

Units SA1 to SA6 are arranged as a mix of theory and application, in a context of a project-led education.

Attendance is mandatory during the morning classes and afternoon assignments (SA1-SA6) for all students.

The Integrated Project (SA7) is s truly project-based course, including a mini-group project to solve a real engineering problem, with site visits.

The Dissertation (SA8) aims at developing research and/or professional competencies in the field of conservation and restoration of architectural heritage structures.