Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
Universidade da Beira Interior (UBI) in Covilhã, Portugal, established the Faculty of Health Sciences (Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde – FCS) in 1998 to implement a national strategy to increase medical education outside the major coastal cities, and opened its doors in 2001/2002 with its first Medicine program.
About Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
Since its inception, the faculty has been known for its progressive method of teaching, embracing integrated curricula and problem-based learning (PBL) methodologies, prioritizing student-centered learning over the traditional memorization. Clinical training is conducted through robust partnerships with neighbouring hospitals and health centres, allowing students to acquire hands-on, real-world experience during their studies.
Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Ranking
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Fee Structure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
- FAQ’s
The faculty has numerous health-related academic programs covering all study cycles. Undergraduate level offers students the opportunity to study Biomedical Sciences and Optometry – Vision Science. Integrated master programs are Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, both of which integrate bachelor and master levels in one course of study.
At postgraduate level, the faculty offers master’s degrees in Biomedical Sciences, Gerontology, and Optometry in Vision Sciences and also doctoral programs in Biomedicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Medicine. Research is a core activity at FCS-UBI, facilitated by the Health Sciences Research Centre (CICS-UBI), which converges approximately 200 researchers in disease areas with significant public health relevance, neurological, infectious, respiratory, endocrine, and oncological disorders.
Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
The government’s keen perception of the necessity of a qualitative jump in human resource development in the health sector prompted its approval of the establishment of two additional Medical Schools in the country, even though it was immediately clarified that the candidate projects would be required to submit deep changes in the medical course, thereby making it possible to modernize medical education in Portugal.
In line with this provision, the University of Beira Interior launched another great challenge and filed an application for an innovative medical program, which was accepted by Council of Ministers Resolution No. 140/98 of December 4. The proposal suggested the creation of innovative training models, underpinned by high-quality scientific, pedagogical, and healthcare standards, in which coordination with healthcare units would be guaranteed through a unique and innovative organizational model.
Biomedical Sciences, Gerontology, Optometry in Vision Sciences and Doctorates in Biomedicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicine.
Advantages of Studying in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Strong Reputation in Teaching & Research
- FCS-UBI is recognised in international rankings. For example, in the Times Higher Education clinical / pre-clinical & health subject area, UBI’s Health Sciences was ranked.
2. Innovative Pedagogical Approach
- The staff employs an integrated curriculum rather than an assortment of disconnected courses, with the focus being on problem-based learning (PBL) and outcomes-based learning instead of memorization.
3. Good Clinical / Practical Training
- The college has made arrangements with a number of hospitals and health centers in the area to grant actual clinical practice to students.
- Additionally, there is a specific “Laboratory of Competencies” practice hands-on and simulation, supporting the acquisition of practical and clinical competencies.
4. Robust Research Infrastructure
- FCS-UBI boasts an active research centre in health sciences, numerous researchers, laboratories, and active projects. This presents opportunities for students interested in conducting research, both in and out of the classroom.
5. Emerging University with Youthful Dynamism
- UBI is comparatively young but has progressed rapidly on many fronts, particularly innovation, research excellence, and global reputation. It usually translates into greater flexibility, greater focus on new approaches, opportunities to join expanding programs, and a more relaxed structure compared to very traditional institutions.
6. Industry & Technology Transfer Integration
- Through programs such as UBImedical, UBI provides laboratory, incubation and technology transfer facilities. This ties up students with applied work, entrepreneurship and facilitates research to practice or business translation.
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Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude – Ranking
The University of Beira Interior (UBI) Health Sciences department was, for the first time, classified among the 500 best health sciences departments in the world. According to Times Higher Education Clinical, Pre-Clinical & Health ranking, the quality of UBI’s teaching.
This is an excellent achievement, given the youth of the Faculty of Health Sciences, which was founded in 2001, and due to the fact that it deals with a very competitive sector based on important investments globally.
Medicine, Biomedicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Optometry, and Vision Sciences are the biggest fields of UBI’s teaching and research considered in this ranking.
The newly appointed Faculty of Health Sciences president, Miguel Castelo Branco, views the entry into the sectoral THE “a fantastic result” and the beginning of another challenge: will try to be higher in the next ranking, and thus, wish to keep asserting what has been a good-done, well-established job, an innovative teaching process that already proves and demonstrates the excellence, capacity, and competence of professionals.”
The FCS has around 1,600 students, distributed in bachelor, master, doctor and integrated master degrees. Around 350 professionals participate in the training of the students.
Departments And Course Duration in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Medicine (Medicina)
The course emphasizes patient-centred care, diagnostics, treatment planning, emergency care, and ethical/communication skills. With modern labs, simulation centres, and clinical training.
2. Pharmaceutical Sciences
The 5-year Integrated Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences leads to employment in pharmacy, biotechnology, and drug research. After three years students are awarded a Bachelor in Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences.
3. Optometry and Vision Sciences
The Bachelor of Optometry and Vision Sciences takes 3 years to complete and provides students with skills in primary eye care. Training involves refraction, dispensing glasses and contact lenses, detection of eye disorders, and vision rehabilitation.
4. Master in Gerontology
UBI Master in Gerontology is dedicated to the study of aging, care for the elderly, and public health issues that come with an aging population. Though such as precise ECTS or vacancies isn’t publicly advertised, it usually lasts 2 years
5. Master in Optometry / Vision Sciences
The Master in Optometry and Vision Sciences builds upon the undergraduate degree, offering specialized training in advanced vision science, ocular disease detection, and innovative optical technologies.
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Facilities And Infrastructure in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Academic & Learning Facilities
Teaching & Skills Labs – for hands-on practice, medical simulation, and clinical skills training.
Classrooms & Auditoriums – With projectors, smart boards, e-learning technologies.
Health Sciences Library (Biblioteca FCS) – Specialized on medical and health sciences, having study rooms, computer access, journals, and e-resources.
2. Research Centers & Laboratories
CICS-UBI (Health Sciences Research Centre) comprising advanced labs:
- Cell Culture & Molecular Biology Labs
- Microbiology & Immunology Labs
- Physiology & Pharmacology Labs
- Fluorescence Microscopy Unit
- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Unit
- Cytometry & Proteomics Labs
- Organic Synthesis & Pharmaceutical Technology Labs
- Supporting research at the highest level of medicine, biomedicine, pharmacy, and health technologies.
3. Sports & Recreation
- Two Sports Pavilions (Gymnasiums) at UBI with courts for basketball, volleyball, handball, and badminton.
- Synthetic Turf Fields & Outdoor Courts – football, handball, and futsal.
- Fitness & Wellness Programs – yoga, athletics, football, etc., student clubs.
- Shared by the Health Sciences Faculty and other faculties.
4. Sustainability & Green Campus
- Solar Energy Project – more than 1,300 photovoltaic panels at the FCS parking area.
- CO₂ emissions are cut by 327 tons per annum.
- New energy-efficient systems – heat pumps, air treatment units, and building modernization projects.
5. Student Life & Support
AAUBI on the organizing side:
- Public events, cultural programs, health campaigns, and parties.
- Volunteering & Social Responsibility Programs – where students participate in community health projects.
Official site For Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude: Click Here
Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude Fee Structure
Estimated Fee Between 80 lakhs to 90 lakhs
Required Documents For Admission in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
- Completed Application Form (online portal or via international admission system).
- High School Certificate / Secondary Education Diploma (12th grade equivalent).
- Official Transcripts / Mark Sheets of previous studies.
- Proof of subjects studied (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics) – since these are entrance requirements for Medicine/Pharmacy.
- Passport Copy (valid for entire duration of studies).
- Recent Passport-size Photographs.
Eligibility Criteria For Admission in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Academic Requirements
- Secondary Education: Completion of secondary education equivalent to the Portuguese 12th grade.
- Subject Prerequisites: Strong academic background in:
- Biology and Geology
- Physics and Chemistry
- Minimum GPA: Typically, a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
2. National Admission Examination
- Required Exams: Applicants must take the National Medical Admissions Exam administered by the Portuguese Directorate-General for Higher Education (DGES), which includes:
- Minimum Score: A minimum score of 140 out of 200 is generally required for each exam.
3. Selection Process
- Admission Grade Calculation:
- Secondary School Average: 50% of the final admission grade.
- National Exam Scores: 50% of the final admission grade.
- Vacancies: Approximately 150 seats available for the 2025 intake.
- Minimum Admission Grade: The lowest admission grade in the first phase of 2024 was 177 out of 200.
4. Valid documents
- Valid Passport Copy
- Recent Passport-sized Photographs
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation (usually two)
- Proof of Financial Means to cover tuition and living expenses
- Health Insurance valid in Portugal
Admission Process For Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Check Eligibility
- Must meet the academic requirements: completion of secondary education equivalent to Portuguese 12th grade with strong scores in Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
2. Language Requirement
- Portuguese proficiency is required (course is taught in Portuguese).
- Provide a CAPLE or CELPE-Bras certificate or proof of completing a Portuguese language course.
3. Application Submission
- Apply through the DGES portal (for EU students) or UBI International Office (for non-EU/international students).
- Submit all Required Documents:
- High school diploma & transcripts
- Passport copy
- Photographs
- Language certificate
- Motivation letter, CV, recommendation letters (for international applicants)
- Proof of financial means
4. Entrance Exam / Evaluation
- For Medicine, admission requires a National Medical Admission Exam in Portugal with subjects:
- Biology & Geology
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Benefits of Studying in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Academic Excellence
International Reputation: The University of Beira Interior (UBI) Health Alternative Resources faculty is ranked among the top 500 in the world in the Times Higher Education Clinical, Pre-clinical and Health Rankings, not only based on commitment to high-quality teaching and research but international profile as well.
2. Clinical Training Opportunities
UBI has established protocol agreements with a number of hospitals, the Cova da Beira Hospital Centre and Amato Lusitano Hospital, where students are able to participate in hands-on, practical clinical training.
3. Student Support Services
Accommodation: UBI accommodates students in various forms and also has a number of dorms that offer affordable and convenient accommodation services to students.
Health and Well-being: The university provides medical assistance to students thereby allowing them to get healthcare whenever the need arises.
Sports and Recreation: UBI makes use of its sporting facilities and programs through which students can remain physically fit, thereby keeping to a healthy lifestyle.
4. Research Opportunities
UBI is involved in many research works especially in health sciences and biomedicine in which the students are offered the option of joining the innovative research work.
Ties and Interactions: The university has connections with other academic institutions and research centres and this gives them a wider and enhanced influence of their research projects.
5. Advanced Technology and State of the Art Infrastructure.
The Health Sciences Faculty of the University of Beira Interior (UBI) consists of high-tech and modernised laboratories, simulation centres, smart classrooms and medical equipment, through which the students are learning directly using the latest medical technologies.
6. Good Career Advice and Alumni Network.
Career counselling, summer employment and mentoring programs are facilitated in the university. The hospitals, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies can include graduates of the university in Portugal and abroad, therefore the alumni network can guarantee not only a job but also a career advancement.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Universidade da Beira Interior Faculdade de ciencias da saude
1. Fast-Track Recognition of Indian Qualifications
Applicants may have Indian qualifications recognised on a fast-track basis which is not based on an authentic foreign qualification in their own person.
UBI is accustomed to the assessment of Indian CBSE/ISC/State Board certificates; therefore, the transfer of Indian applicants to this university is less complicated than in other European universities.
2. Special Orientation Programs of Indian students.
Pre-arrival and on-campus orientation program specially designed to address the needs of the Indian and other foreign students such as orientation on how to adapt to the Portuguese culture, the health systems and academic expectations.
3. Indian Student Community and Cultural Clubs.
To make students feel at home, UBI has an active group of Indian students who hold festivals such as Diwali and Holi, networking events and community gatherings.
4. Opportunities of collaboration with Indian Universities.
UBI also has exchange programs and research partnerships with Indian institutions, through which Indian students are given the opportunity to take part in joint research work or internships.
6. Career Advice European Union Healthcare of Indian Students.
Specialized workshops assist Indian students to learn about the EU medical licensing standards, residency, and clinical internship opportunities unlike in other colleges where students generally receive career advice.
6. Flexible Language Support
UBI provides Portuguese language classes to Indian and other international students, and even the option of the course setting off prior to the start of the semester, simplifying the language barrier to the clinical training.
7. Appreciation of Indian Clinical Internships / Research.
Trained Indian medical interns or Indian medical research students might receive credit or exemption in some of the pre-clinical courses to speed up the learning process.
FAQ’s
1. Is Portuguese language required?
- Yes, courses like Medicine are taught in Portuguese.
- UBI offers Portuguese language preparatory courses for international students.
2. How is clinical training handled for Indian students?
- UBI has partnerships with hospitals (Cova da Beira, Amato Lusitano) for practical training.
- Indian students receive hands-on experience in labs and clinical rotations.
3. Are there Indian cultural communities at UBI?
Yes, there is an Indian student group organizing cultural events like Diwali and Holi, plus networking activities.
4. Is there an entrance exam in Portugal for Medicine?
Yes, Students must take the Portuguese national admission exams in Biology & Geology, Physics & Chemistry, and Mathematics A. International students may need equivalent recognized exams.
5. Can Indian 12th-grade marks (CBSE/ISC) be accepted?
Yes, UBI recognizes CBSE/ISC/State Board certificates, but you must have strong marks in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
6. Is attendance mandatory for classes and labs?
Yes, Regular attendance is required, especially for labs and clinical training.
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