Why study an MBA in Portugal?
Portugal is an important and popular destination for international students looking to study an MBA in Europe. Portugal’s membership of the European Union makes it an attractive place to study for both EU and non-EU businesspeople, with many options for post-study employment.
Portugal’s economy has been negatively affected by the economic recession and is taking time to recover. Despite this, important economic sectors in Portugal include banking, tourism, agriculture and biotechnology – plenty of options for specialisation in your international MBA program in Portugal.
What international MBA programs are offered in Portugal?
Portugal offers a mix of MBA programs taught in both Portuguese and English, including traditional MBAs, executive MBAs, distance learning MBAs and many specialisations. Some of the most popular MBA specialisations in Portugal include marketing, operations management and finance.
You should expect a full-time MBA in Portugal to take one year to complete, with part-time programs adding a extra year of study.
Immigration and visas in Portugal
EU students who want to study a graduate program in Portugal will be able to do so under the terms of the EU free movement. Non-EU students will have to apply for a study visa, with rules and regulations depending on the country you are applying from. In all cases your chosen university should be able to help you through the process.
As a guide, all students will have to demonstrate the following regardless of nationality:
- You have a confirmed place on a course at a recognised education institution
- You are studying for more than three month
- You have paid all relevant visa fees
- You have sufficient funds to support yourself
- You have comprehensive health insurance cover
What are the costs of studying for an MBA in Portugal?
The cost of studying an international MBA program in Portugal varies depending on the course, mode of study and business school you opt for. As a guide, you should expect a full-time MBA program in Portugal to cost between €20,000-€40,000.
You can usually pay your tuition fees in instalments and there may be a discount for early applications or payments.
Working in Portugal
Portugal’s economy has been one of the hardest hit in Europe by the global recession, with the country experience high unemployment and debt. Despite bailouts by the European Union, 2013 saw the end of a three year aid program worth €78 billion and unemployment set to peak at 18.5% in 2014.
Portugal’s economy has traditionally been based around agriculture and farming, with forestry also playing an important role. However, in recent years Portugal has diversified to include modern technology-based industries and aerospace. As ever, tourism remains a major employer of graduates in Portugal.
What to do next
If you would like more information on choosing and applying for an MBA program in Portugal, sign up to our Free Application Service. We’ll get in touch with you with information tailored to your requirements, including advice on the best business course for you.
