The Department of Medical Sciences (DCM) at the University of Aveiro (UA) is a modern and highly innovative medical school. Known for its strong focus on research and the "One Health" approach, it offers a distinct academic environment in one of Portugal’s most beautiful coastal cities.
Established: 2008 (Medical Sciences Department).
Location: Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
Program: Integrated Master’s in Medicine (6 years, 360 ECTS).
Language of Instruction: Portuguese.
International Students: Proficiency in Portuguese is essential. While the university offers Portuguese language courses for foreigners, students are expected to be fluent enough for clinical practice by the 3rd year.
Accreditation: Fully accredited by A3ES and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
The "Venice of Portugal": The campus is famously beautiful, located alongside the Aveiro lagoon (Ria de Aveiro). The DCM building is a modern architectural landmark within the Santiago Campus.
Curriculum Style: UA is known for its interdisciplinary approach. Medical students often collaborate with the departments of Biology, Physics, and Materials Science, especially in the field of nanomedicine and biotechnology.
Research Excellence: Home to the iBiMED (Institute of Biomedicine), which focuses on areas like aging, molecular genetics, and neurosciences.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
The university operates within a regional clinical network:
Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga (CHBV): The primary clinical partner, with its main hospital (Hospital Infante D. Pedro) located in Aveiro city.
Other Partners: Includes the Hospital Center of Entre o Douro e Vouga and local Primary Healthcare Units (ACES).
Simulation Lab: The department features a well-equipped clinical simulation center for early-stage medical training.
State University Affordability
National/EU Students: Capped at the standard public rate of €697 per year.
International Student Tuition: Approximately €5,500 – €7,000 per year (Medical programs are usually on the higher end of the UA international fee scale).
Payment: Can be paid in a lump sum or in 10 monthly installments.
Application Fee: Roughly €50.
Vibe: A mid-sized, safe, and very flat city (ideal for cycling). It is famous for its canals, "Moliceiro" boats, and Art Nouveau architecture.
Quality of Life: High. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to beaches like Praia da Barra and Costa Nova.
Transport: Excellent train connections to Porto (45 mins) and Lisbon (2.5 hours).
University Residences: Managed by the Social Services (SAUAS).
Cost: Between €150 and €250 per month for students.
Quality: UA residences are generally well-maintained and located within walking distance of the Santiago Campus.
Private Housing: Aveiro is generally more affordable than Lisbon or Porto.
Shared Apartment Room: €300 – €450 per month.
Private Studio: €550 – €700 per month.
Mess/Dining:
University Canteens: A full meal costs between €2.80 and €4.50.
Monthly Food Budget: Approximately €200 – €300 if using the canteen and self-catering.
International Student Statute: UA has a specific intake for non-EU students who meet the necessary academic criteria.
Admission Requirements:
High School Grades: Strong focus on Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Entrance Exams: International students must provide equivalent scores to the Portuguese national exams (e.g., IB, A-Levels, or ENEM).
NEET (For Indians): Mandatory qualification is required for students who wish to return to India to practice.
Language Requirement: Usually requires a declaration of proficiency or an interview to ensure the student can follow the Portuguese curriculum.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus