Planetary Health Studies (ULisboa)

The PhD in Planetary Health Studies at the University of Lisbon faces urgent global challenges, linking the areas of health, environment, society and public policy. With an interdisciplinary approach, this program prepares students to analyze and solve complex problems that transcend traditional barriers between disciplines.

Focused on action and transformation, the PhD program addresses planetary health issues at the local, regional, and global levels. Students are encouraged to develop and test innovative solutions, both in the laboratory and in virtual environments, through collaborative projects. This distinctive, problem-solving methodology is reflected in a curriculum that integrates diverse perspectives on the challenges of planetary health

Doctoral theses are structured around real-world problems and often developed in partnership with institutions such as state laboratories, hospitals, museums, companies, and NGOs, which may also be future employers of graduates.

The program has the participation of 18 schools of the University of Lisbon, including teachers and thesis advisors specialized in various areas and sectors, both academic and non-academic. These professionals are committed to creating a research environment of excellence, ensuring a significant impact on the advancement of knowledge and practical application of the solutions developed.

5 reasons to choose this program

1.

Study at one of the best universities in Europe.

2.

Learn in English and explore a variety of international opportunities.

3.

Work with real-world data to develop high-demand skills.

 

4.

Gain insights from experts in Health, Environment, and Socioeconomic Sciences.

5.

Benefit from personalized career guidance tailored to your goals.

Educational Plan

The curriculum combines courses, seminars, and internships, allowing students to specialize in six areas, such as Global Health, Urban Health, or Climate Change and Health.

Objectives

  • This doctoral program aims to create leaders capable of generating actionable evidence and developing sustainable public policies.
  • This program adopts a multidimensional perspective, uniting health sciences with environmental and social areas, to understand and address the global challenges of planetary health.
  • With a focus on problem-solving, the program helps students co-create and test solutions at both local and global levels, stimulating innovation through collaboration between different sectors and the involvement of various stakeholders. Through an integrative and multidisciplinary approach, the program prepares students to apply global concepts and make operational decisions based on concrete data, promoting transformative interventions.
  • This program is ideal for professionals and academics in the fields of health, environmental sciences, and social policy who want to develop innovative solutions to the most pressing issues of planetary health.

 

Study Plan and Specializations

Students have the opportunity to participate in courses, seminars, and internships, choosing from six areas of specialization: Climate Change and Health, Global Health, Health in Extreme Environments, Planetary Health Policy and Governance, Tropical Health, and Urban Health.

In the first semester, students complete four foundational courses that address the dimensions of health, environment, socioeconomics, and politics in Planetary Health. These courses, which include case studies, promote a critical perspective and provide an understanding of different local and global contexts. Students also have the opportunity to choose two optional courses, which address cross-cutting themes and skills aligned with their personal interests.

At the end of the first year, each student defines their doctoral specialization, charting their own academic path. Throughout the four years of the program, seminars and internships contribute to academic and professional development, promoting collaborative learning, constructive feedback, networking, and exposure to new ideas.

The program utilizes active teaching methodologies, focused on enhancing skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability.

 

Important Dates

1st Phase:
Candidaturas: 3 a 28 de março 2025
Matrícula e inscrição: 5 a 8 de maio de 2025

2nd Phase:
Candidaturas: 12 de maio a 6 de junho de 2025
Matrícula e inscrição: 14 a 17 de julho de 2025

 

Tuition Fees

2750 € / year

 

Places Available

30

 

Duration

4 academic years

 

ECTS Credits

240

 

Language

English

 

Type and Modality

Intensive modular course in person

 

Location

University of Lisbon Rectorate

TTC@Ulisboa