Capstone Programme @Técnico

CAPSTONE projects are a new model for master dissertations, in the shape of multidisciplinary, integrative curricular projects designed to address real-world challenges.

CAPSTONE projects have three main objectives:

1) Consolidating learning by integrating and applying concepts acquired throughout the academic journey;

2) Solving real and multidisciplinary problems, whose complexity requires teams composed of students from different study cycles at IST;

3) Addressing societal challenges, including those presented by companies, public or non-governmental institutions, or entrepreneurial initiatives led by students (e.g., Student Groups).

The execution of CAPSTONE projects — proposed by companies, institutions, or student groups and supervised by multidisciplinary teams of Técnico professors and researchers — spans the entire second year of Técnico’s master’s programs.

In the first semester, within the scope of the Second-Cycle Integrative Project course (PIC2 – 12 ECTS), student teams analyze the proposed challenge, study its context, and define the specific objectives of the project.

In the second semester, each student develops an individual contribution as part of the team effort, working on their specific role within the project, under the Dissertation course (30 ECTS).

CAPSTONE projects offer an innovative approach to completing a degree in Engineering, Science, and Architecture at Técnico, with significant impact on student training, strengthening the link between Academia and Society, and fostering technological and societal development.