Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions

Program Overview: Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions at the University of Minho

The Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions program offered by the University of Minho is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for the assessment, preservation, and restoration of historic structures. This specialized postgraduate program integrates principles of structural engineering, materials science, and conservation techniques, focusing on the unique challenges associated with heritage monuments and ancient constructions.

Throughout the coursework, students explore advanced methods for analyzing the structural integrity of complex historical edifices, including load assessment, stress analysis, and failure mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on the use of modern computational tools and experimental methods to evaluate existing structures and predict their behavior under various environmental and operational conditions. The program also covers the legal and ethical aspects of heritage conservation, ensuring that future engineers are well-versed in sustainable and responsible restoration practices.

The curriculum combines theoretical lectures with hands-on workshops, site visits, and case studies, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Topics include materials deterioration, structural rehabilitation techniques, seismic retrofitting, and the use of innovative materials in restoration. Special attention is given to the preservation of architectural authenticity and the integration of modern interventions with historic fabric.

Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with experts from various fields, including archaeology, architecture, and civil engineering, fostering a multidisciplinarity approach vital for successful heritage conservation projects. The program also prepares graduates for careers in consultancy, research, and management of restoration works, as well as further academic pursuits in the conservation sciences.

The University of Minho’s state-of-the-art facilities, combined with its strong connections to industry and heritage organizations, provide an ideal learning environment. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the technical expertise and ethical awareness required to contribute effectively to the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

The SAHC – Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions program is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and advanced skills necessary for the preservation, restoration, and analysis of historical structures and monuments. This multidisciplinary program combines principles from civil engineering, architecture, materials science, and conservation, providing a robust understanding of the structural behavior and degradation mechanisms of heritage assets. Throughout the course, students will engage with innovative analytical techniques, including finite element modeling, nondestructive testing, and structural health monitoring, tailored specifically for complex and delicate structures.

The curriculum emphasizes a deep understanding of the historical and cultural significance of monuments, fostering an appreciation of the interdisciplinary approach required in heritage conservation. Students will learn to assess the safety and stability of structures subjected to environmental, geological, and human-induced factors, developing risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Practical training includes case studies of existing monuments, internships with preservation organizations, and laboratory experiments that simulate real-world challenges in structural analysis.

Furthermore, the program covers modern technologies such as 3D scanning, digital documentation, and virtual reconstruction, enabling students to develop innovative solutions for the restoration and maintenance of historic constructions. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are emphasized to prepare graduates for careers in structural engineering consultancy, heritage conservation agencies, research institutions, and international organizations focused on cultural heritage preservation. By the end of the program, students will be capable of conducting detailed structural assessments, proposing suitable intervention methods, and contributing to the sustainable preservation of our cultural heritage through advanced technical expertise.

Program requirements for SAHC — Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions typically include a combination of academic prerequisites, language proficiency, and other eligibility criteria. Applicants are generally expected to possess a relevant undergraduate degree such as Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Structural Engineering from an accredited institution. A solid foundation in structural analysis, materials science, and conservation techniques is often required, illustrating the interdisciplinary nature of the programme. Additionally, candidates may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL, as most instruction is delivered in English. Prior experience or coursework related to historic structures, restoration, or cultural heritage conservation can be advantageous and may be considered during the selection process. Some universities require a motivational letter or statement of purpose highlighting the applicant's interest in heritage structures and their career aspirations in the field of structural analysis and conservation. A curriculum vitae (CV) outlining relevant academic and professional experience is typically necessary. In certain cases, letters of recommendation from previous instructors or employers may be requested to assess the applicant's potential to succeed in advanced studies. The programme might also require a portfolio or project work demonstrating practical skills or research related to structural analysis of monuments. Applicants should ensure they meet the specific criteria set by the University of Minho, which may include passing an interview or entrance examination. Overall, the selection process aims to identify motivated and qualified students capable of engaging with complex structural challenges in the context of cultural heritage preservation.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Three types of scholarships are made available.
Category A scholarships, currently of 24,000 Euro (full coverage of costs), are available to third-country applicants applying within the 1st Call. These Erasmus Mundus scholarships are directly sponsored by the European Commission, under the scope of Erasmus Mundus Programme.

The European Commission makes available additional Category A scholarships for applicants from:

* · Western Balkans and Turkey (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo, and Turkey)
* · Southern Neighbourhood Countries (Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, Occupied Palestinian Territory)



Category B scholarships, currently of 10,000 Euro (with a tuition fee waiver of 50%), are available to students not eligible to the Category A scholarship applying within the 1st Call as well. These Erasmus Mundus scholarships are directly sponsored by the European Commission, under the scope of Erasmus Mundus Programme.

Please note that each student is allowed to submit a maximum of three applications for Erasmus Mundus scholarships at different Erasmus Mundus Masters Courses.

Also, a number of Consortium Scholarships are planned for students from any geographical origin applying within the 1st Call and 2nd Call. These scholarships are financed by the SAHC Consortium itself and are open to students of any nationality. However, non-third-country nationals will have a higher chance of being selected. These Consortium Scholarships are divided as follows:

* · One to two scholarships of 13,000 Euro
* · Eight scholarships of 6,000 Euro
* · Ten scholarships of 3,500 Euro

In addition to Consortium Scholarships, European Union students (not going to Czech Technical University in Prague or Technical University of Catalonia for dissertation) might be eligible for a possible LLP/Erasmus mobility grant, depending on the number of grants available.

Any selected applicant must bear in mind that, if selected to a scholarship, the confirmation of acceptance of the scholarship by the student implies automatically that other interested applicants will not receive a scholarship, as the number of applicants is larger than the number of grants. Therefore, the SAHC Consortium will request to all students selected for a scholarship the payment of a deposit of 250 Euro to confirm their acceptance of the scholarship and enrolment in the Master Course. This deposit will be returned to students only if they register at the University. The only purpose of this measure is to avoid filling up the MSc places with students that will not finally participate and that will compromise the enrolment of other interested students.

Third-country nationals eligible for an Erasmus Mundus Category A scholarship are nationals coming from all countries other than:

* · the 28 EU Member States
* · the EEA-EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway)

who are not residents of any of the above countries, and who have not carried out their main activities (studies, work, etc.) for more than a total of 12 months over the last five years in any of the above countries.

European students and third-country students non-eligible for a Erasmus Mundus Category A scholarship are considered eligible for a Erasmus Mundus Category B scholarship.

The Advanced Structural Analysis of Monuments and Historical Constructions program offered by the University of Minho provides a comprehensive and specialized education dedicated to the preservation, study, and restoration of historic structures. This program aims to equip students with advanced skills in structural assessment, innovative analysis techniques, and conservation methodologies applicable to heritage buildings and constructions of historical significance. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, including the use of modern computational tools and modeling software to simulate structural behavior under various conditions. Students learn about material properties specific to historical materials, such as stone, brick, mortar, and timber, and how these materials influence structural performance and deterioration mechanisms. The program emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches, combining principles of civil engineering, architecture, archaeology, and conservation science to develop sustainable preservation strategies. Throughout the course, students engage in case studies of renowned monuments, gaining insights into challenges associated with restorations and stabilizations of complex historical structures. The program also fosters research skills, preparing students for careers in academia, consultancy, or conservation agencies. Collaborative projects and internships with heritage sites or engineering firms specializing in restoration are often integral parts of the learning experience, providing real-world exposure. The University of Minho's facilities support this focus with advanced laboratories equipped for materials testing and structural analysis. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute to the protection of architectural heritage, ensuring the longevity and cultural significance of historical constructions for future generations.