Transportation Systems
Programme Overview
The Doctoral Programme in Transportation Systems covers key topics in the field of transportation.
It covers various aspects including transportation policy and planning, as well as the management, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure across different spatial scales (ranging from international to local/urban settings). The programme also addresses diverse modes of transportation (such as air, water, and land—encompassing rail, urban and regional public transit, cars, bicycles, and pedestrian systems).
*This doctoral programme is the result of a partnership between the Instituto Superior Técnico (Universidade de Lisboa), the Faculty of Engineering (University of Porto) and the Faculty of Science and Technology (University of Coimbra), and was established as part of the MIT-Portugal Program.
Programme Structure
The doctoral programme typically lasts four years (240 ECTS), with a strong emphasis on innovation and development. Additionally, the Técnico Doctoral Programme provides flexibility to adapt each student’s path to their specific research goals.
Overall structure:
- Doctoral Programme: 60 ECTS
- Doctoral Thesis: 180 ECTS
The doctoral programme is organised into a three-block framework:
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36
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24
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180
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Core Structure (36 ECTS)
Curricular units in Research Methodology and a Thesis Project on Transportation Systems, enabling students to deepen their knowledge in topics directly related to the thesis.
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Options (24 ECTS)
Curricular units on topics relevant to transportation systems.
The core structure of the doctoral programme focuses on research, innovation and development, scientific output, international mobility, and the public defense of the doctoral thesis, which typically takes place in the fourth year.
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Doctoral Thesis (180 ECTS)
Flexible academic tracks with active participation in national and international research and innovation projects. The doctoral programme supports the development of the thesis and encourages an entrepreneurial spirit, aiming to expand the frontiers of knowledge.
Research Areas
The Doctoral Programme in Transport Systems covers a wide range of scientific fields, showcasing the diversity and excellence of the research conducted at Técnico. Students have the opportunity to engage in advanced research on both fundamental and applied topics, including:
- Transportation Policy
- Accessibility and Urban Mobility
- Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance
- Planning and Management of Transportation Systems Operations
The doctoral programme strongly encourages interdisciplinary research, fostering collaborations with other scientific fields within Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, and international institutions. Research is conducted at one of the 25 Research Units (RU) affiliated with Técnico, particularly in those RUs that are most closely aligned with this doctoral programme:
Target Audience
Admission to the Técnico doctoral programmes is open to candidates with a strong academic background and a demonstrated motivation for advanced research.
Entry Requirements
- Holders of a master’s degree (or equivalent) in Science, Engineering or related fields.
- Holders of an undergraduate degree who have demonstrated exceptional academic and scientific achievements may be considered, pending evaluation.
- Candidates from other scientific fields may also be admitted and may be assigned preparatory curricular units.
The doctoral programme is intended for candidates with a background in engineering, urban planning, computer science, economics and other social sciences or related fields. A master’s degree is the typical entry requirement, but applicants with other relevant academic backgrounds may be admitted and may be assigned preparatory curricular units, when appropriate.
Student Community
PDEIC students are part of a vibrant, diverse, and supportive academic community, benefiting from multiple student-led and institutional initiatives:
- Técnico Doctoral School: Offers transversal training, seminars, and support services for all doctoral students.
- Técnico PhD Hub: Brings together the Técnico’s PhD community with experience, interests, and insights, promoting the value of the PhD.