Master in Social Dynamics, Natural and Technological Risks

General Objectives of the Course

The degree programme aims to provide solid theoretical and technical training in the different areas concerned with risk issues, both from a prevention and intervention perspective in the cases of catastrophes caused by natural and technological processes. As the programme was designed to a diversified group of students, including social sciences, natural, exact and technological sciences, the contents promote an integrative rather than a specialized approach, which combines the ability to interpret quantitative data with qualitative methodologies for evaluating and perceiving risk in human communities. The fundamental concern is to stress the importance of the social structures and dynamics of local communities in risk prevention, as well as in the acquisition of analytical and intervention tools that allow the diagnosis and definition of guidelines in the event of a catastrophe or other events.

Admission Requirements

"1. a) Holders of a Bachelor's degree or equivalent who prove to be familiar with the scientific area and to have capacity for the qualification to a master’s degree; b) Holders of a foreign higher academic degree, that was awarded after accomplishing a 1st cycle which should be structured according to the principles of the Bologna Process; c) Holders of a foreign academic degree that is recognized as meeting the objectives of a bachelor's degree; d) Holders of a scientific and professional curriculum vitae that is recognized as attesting the capacity to successful complete this cycle of studies. 2. The recognition referred to in the 1st paragraph only gives access to the cycle of studies and it does not grant the equivalence to a Bachelor’s degree or the recognition of that degree.
A solid knowldege of the English language is also recommended."

Candidates should check the admission requirements available on this site, in addition to the information provided here.

Professional Goals

In research centers related with risk analysis, in national and municipal entities responsible for emergency planning and management, national and international public and private organizations associated with Natech risk management.

Mode of Study

Face-to-Face

Teaching / Evaluation language(s)

Portuguese

Examination Regulations, Assessment and Grading

As assessment is a pedagogical activity inseparable from the teaching process, its aim is to establish the students' competencies and knowledge, their critical sense, ability to recognize and resolve problems, as well as their written and oral presentation skills. Students may only register for exams for classes they are currently registered for under the terms of number 6 of article 4 of the University of Coimbra Pedagogical Policy. The following are examples of assessment items: Oral or written exams, written or practical work, individual and group projects that may require an oral defense, as well as class participation. Assessment for each class may include one or more of the above mentioned items. Grading is based on a scale of 0 to 20 and a grade of 10 is required to pass. Whenever assessment includes more than one item, the final grade is calculated by taking into account the relative weight of each item according to a formula published in the course outline under the terms of number 2 of article 7 of the UC Pedagogical Policy.

Learning Objectives and Intended Skills

The acquired skills will allow the establishment of policies for prevention, minimization, management and communication of risk, determining at each moment, before, during or after a hazardous event, the mobilization and rehabilitation capacity of affected communities. The role of civil protection as a major player in prevention and management measures associated with natural hazards is highlighted. The knowledge of the legal and compensatory instruments and the spheres of action of each of the public entities, both local and national, is essential. Training with a wide range of knowledge, as much as possible, up-to-date and relevant in the area, as well as the distinction between Physical and Social areas, enable the acquisition of tools and methodologies aimed at personal and systemic competences, capable of different professional settings in the areas of Civil Protection and Emergency.

Course Coordinator(s)

José Manuel Oliveira Mendes
jomendes@fe.uc.pt

Lúcio José Sobral da Cunha
luciogeo@fl.uc.pt

Pedro José Miranda da Costa
uc45117@uc.pt

ECTS Departmental Coordinator(s)

António Manuel Portugal Duarte
portugal@fe.uc.pt

Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of prior learning is carried out in accordance with the Academic Regulation of the University of Coimbra.

Qualification Requirements and Regulations

The legal framework for the qualification is established by the decrees: Decree-Law nr 74/2006, 24th March, in its current wording

Graduation Requirements

In order to receive the degree, the student must achieve the minimum number of 120 ECTS. With the approval of the 60 ECTS of the 1st year curricular units students will have access to a Postgraduate Certificate in Social Dynamics, Natural and Technological Risks.

Access to Further Studies

PhD

Study Programme

Social Dynamics, Natural and Technological Risks

Academic year
2024-2025

Course Type
2nd Cycle Studies - Lifelong Learning Master Programme

DGES Code: 6072

Qualification Awarded: Mestre

Duration: 2 Year(s)

ECTS Credits: 120.0

Category: Lifelong training second cycle

Applications

Call for Applications

Calendar

1st Semester: Start date: 09-09-2024
End date: 14-12-2024
2nd Semester: Start date: 03-02-2025
End date: 22-05-2025

Accreditations

Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior: 2017-01-05 a 2023-01-04
Direcção Geral de Ensino Superior: Nº Registo: R/A-Ef 1560/2011; 2011-03-18