The School of Health Sciences (ESS), an integral part of the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), is a distinguished institution in the landscape of higher education in Portugal. Established by decree in 1973, its installation committee took office in 1979, initially located in Lordelo, adjacent to Vila Real Hospital.
In 2004, ESS was officially integrated into UTAD, maintaining its polytechnic nature, and subsequently relocated its facilities to Polo II of ECVA, where it is currently headquartered.
The core mission of ESS focuses on excellence in nursing education and research. The school offers a wide range of academic programmes, including:
- The Undergraduate Degree in Nursing, preparing future professionals with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
- Various Master's programmes, allowing for specialisation in crucial areas of nursing:
- Nursing
- Community Nursing
- Family Health Nursing
- Nursing for Individuals in Critical Situations
Beyond academic training, ESS stands out for its
strong interaction with the community. The school actively responds to numerous community demands, being widely recognised for the civic participation of its students and faculty. This involvement is one of its distinctive hallmarks, significantly contributing to the development of health projects, both individual and collective, and strengthening its relationship with the surrounding context.
ESS is a fundamental pillar in the training of health professionals, promoting research and the continuous development of nursing in Portugal, with a direct and positive impact on society.