Academic Degrees
Since the Bologna Process was introduced at IST in 2006/07 all the training offers have been structured in terms of 1st, 2nd and 3rd cycles of studies (Bachelor, Master and PhD):
![[Esquema] Academic degrees structure at IST since Bologna Process was introduced](/img/ensino/graus_academicos_en.png)
Bachelors
The Bachelor Degree (B.Sc) (three years) is obtained after the student has completed course requirements that amounts to 180 ECTS in a certain area of specialisation. The B.Sc degree certifies basic scientific and technical training as well as professionally relevant skills. After obtaining a B.Sc diploma, students can either enter the job market directly or continue his/her studies in a Master Program.
Masters
The Master Degree (M.Sc) corresponds either to two additional years of training (90-120 ECTS) after the completion of a B.Sc, or to a total of 5 years training (300 ECTS). These M.Sc programmes provide an advanced level of qualifications with a stronger scientific and technical content, usually involving a larger domain of specialization. IST is proud to offer a wide variety of M.Sc programmes to both national and international students.
PhD
The Doctoral Degree (Ph.D) takes typically between 3-4 years of studies and is strongly driven by research activities and the generation of new knowledge. Students that enrol in a Ph.D programme need to fulfil 30-60 ECTS of training in an Advanced Training course on related area. PhD students are usually integrated in one of the IST research centers where they can conduct advanced studies and research as well as interact with IST faculty members, researchers and students.