Program Management and Fund System for Innovation and Smart Specialization

The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and located in the historic city of Coimbra, is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a UNESCO cultural landmark. With about 25,580 students, including roughly 4,351 international students, the university blends centuries of academic tradition with a vibrant, international campus life. Its historic colleges, libraries and concert halls coexist with modern research centers across disciplines from law and humanities to engineering and biomedical sciences.

Coimbra offers a broad academic portfolio with strong research output, international exchange programs and multidisciplinary centers that foster innovation. The university is especially well known for its law, arts, social sciences and health faculties, and it participates actively in Erasmus and global partnerships that facilitate study abroad and collaborative research. Students benefit from structured academic advising, language support and numerous cultural activities tied to the city’s student traditions.

Student life is shaped by rich traditions, lively academic societies and a compact city layout that makes it easy to combine study and cultural exploration. International students enjoy access to modern facilities, research opportunities and a welcoming community with a strong focus on academic excellence and cultural exchange. For those seeking a historically rich European university experience with robust research networks and an active international student community, the University of Coimbra offers a compelling academic and cultural environment.

The Program Management and Fund System for Innovation and Smart Specialization is a 3-year non-degree program at the University of Coimbra. It's for professionals who want to improve their skills in managing collaborative R&D projects, especially those funded by European Funds.

The curriculum covers funding mechanisms, user-centered innovation, and collaborative proposal development. Students will develop hard and soft skills through practical learning experiences, helping them generate impactful ideas and navigate project complexities.

Graduates can pursue roles like R&D Project Manager, Innovation Consultant, or Program Coordinator in sectors such as technology, education, and public administration. They'll be equipped to work with organizations managing European funds, driving societal change and enhancing their employability in a competitive job market.