Lisbon, Portugal
Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics is Portugal’s first business school and belongs to the Portuguese Catholic University, one of the leading institutions of its kind. Católica-Lisbon is accredited by all three management education associations, EQUIS, AMBA and AACSB – a great accomplishment as less than 1% of all business schools worldwide can claim this triple accreditation. It is also the first and only Portuguese Business School ranked in the Financial Times Executive Education Rankings. In 2009, the institute was ranked as the 37th best business school in the world and the 17th best in Europe. The Católica-Lisbon experience is made to be international. The student body represents over 30 different nationalities and 50% of the students are international students, in addition, 35% of Católica-Lisbon’s faculty is from abroad.
The City
Lisbon, the “city of seven hills”, is the political and economic capital of Portugal. It stretches along the north bank of the River Tagus in the westernmost country of mainland Europe. Lisbon has a municipal population of 564,477, while the Lisbon Metropolitan Area is home to 2.8 million. The city is not only historic and beautiful, but also friendly and creative, lending it to be widely regarded as one of the most desirable European capitals. In addition to rich cultural traditions, Lisbon displays contrasting architectural styles, ranging from traditional neighborhoods which date back prior to 1755, to the neo-classical style of spaces such as “Praça do Comércio” and the D. Maria II National Theatre. The Mediterranean climate is perfect for year-round enjoyment of sports and outdoor activities along the coast. Students can be found sailing or windsurfing along the coast, hiking around nearby mountain castles, and exploring local wineries. For a quieter day in the city you can choose to visit one of over 75 museums or galleries. There is a good chance of finding yourself in the middle of a festival, as the city proudly hosts a number international music, film and art events each year.
Student Life
Around 140,000 students study in the metro area of Lisbon, contributing creative, fun and youthful energy to the city. Upon arrival, you will have a buddy, a senior Católica-Lisbon student who will guide you through the university and who will help you settle into student life in Lisbon. The office of International Student Affairs can pre-arrange airport pick-up and accommodation support upon arrival. There are many student-centered social groups in the city designed to help exchange students meet each other, practice their language skills and to discover Lisbon and beyond! Students make use of the metro, tram or buses to quickly move around the city. As a Católica-Lisbon exchange student, you can participate in school organized activities including welcome week, social dinners, volunteer opportunities and sightseeing tours. Exchange students are also welcome to join Student Union organized team sport activities, and are permitted to use the award-winning sports facilities at University Stadium.
Term Dates
Fall Semester: Early September to late January*
Spring Semester: Early February to late June
*In case of overlapping academic calendars, Católica-Lisbon may allow exams abroad. This arrangement is subject to the approval of Católica-Lisbon’s Academic Director. Exams would be proctored by UF.
Courses Available
Católica-Lisbon offers a variety of business courses for students to choose from. Please see an academic advisor for information pertaining to requesting additional equivalencies.
Language of Instruction
Courses are taught in English or Portuguese. UF students are able to take a full load of business courses in English.
Grade Conversion
| Católica-Lisbon points from | Católica-Lisbon points to | UF Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | 20 | A |
| 13 | 14.9 | B+ |
| 12 | 12.9 | B |
| 11 | 11.9 | C+ |
| 10 | 10.9 | C |
| 9 | 9.9 | D+ |
| 8 | 8.9 | D |
| 0 | 7.9 | E |
Credit Conversion
| Católica-Lisbon Credits | UF Credits |
|---|---|
| 2 ECTS credits | 1 UF credit |
Accommodation
Católica-Lisbon does not have on campus housing. The International Office provides help to all exchange students to find permanent accommodation after acceptance and upon arrival.
Travel Opportunities
Lisbon is a sea-side city situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. Traveling from Lisbon around Portugal and Spain is most affordable and convenient through buses or trains. Seville – known for the gorgeous Alcazar, cathedrals, and museums – is a beautiful destination for a day trip from Lisbon by train. An hour outside of Lisbon, fairytale-like castles in Sintra have breathtaking views due to their mountainous location, directly overlooking the sea. Known for its sports, museums, and world-renowned Retiro Park, Madrid offers a change of scenery and a look into the classic Spaniard lifestyle. Weekend tropical destinations, such as the Canary Islands or the Madeira Islands, are easily accessible from by ferry or plane. Lisbon is a short flight away from many western European cities and budget airlines including Ryanair and easyJet offer low-cost direct flights. Travelers can also take advantage of the railway which connects Lisbon to many national and international destinations. Both main stations, the Santa Apolónia terminal and the new Gare do Oriente have direct bus and underground connections to the Lisbon city center.