As a scientific discipline, Palaeontology unravels the mysteries of life’s past on Earth, enabling the reconstruction and comprehension of the diversity of life forms that have existed throughout geological time.
By studying fossils of animals, plants, and microorganisms preserved in rocks, palaeontologists can reconstruct ancient ecosystems and understand how biodiversity has changed over time, contributing to contextualising and expanding the knowledge of life’s evolution.
This program aims to provide master’s students with skills through a cohesive set of knowledge that enables them to address contemporary questions related to the evolution of life on the planet.
This master’s program addresses a critical gap in the national educational system, providing a unique opportunity for specialisation in this interdisciplinary and dynamic field.
Applications 2024/25
1st Phase: FEB. 3rd to MAR. 22nd
2nd Phase: JUN. 2nd to JUL. 18th
Vacancies: 20
Duration: 2 years (120 ECTS)
Format: Daytime
Language: Portuguese / English
Course Coordinator: Paulo Alexandre Legoinha, mp.coordenador@fct.unl.pt
Academic divison: mestrados@fct.unl.pt
Master’s program in partnership with the University of Évora and taught at both institutions.
This master’s combines theoretical learning with laboratory and fieldwork components.
Educational Service Unit
Ciência Viva - National Agency for Scientific and Technological Culture
“I chose NOVA FCT because it has professors who are leading figures in the field of Paleontology and because, at the time, it was the only university offering a Master’s degree in Paleontology.
The program helped me develop a more critical approach to the decisions I need to make in my profession. I feel better prepared for my tasks, particularly in designing activities for the public, consulting on exhibitions, training teachers, among other responsibilities.
The Master's degree offers a broad and diverse range of skills. However, for me, it was especially valuable in my professional field of museology.
The Master's program, which I completed in 2022, is well-structured, with dedicated professors always willing to help. I have been working for over 22 years at Ciência Viva - National Agency for Scientific and Technological Culture.”
Tuition fee - Portuguese students: 1500€ / year
Tuition fee - Foreign students: 1500€ / year
Accepted candidates will be required to pay (within 7 consecutive days from the placement date) a non-refundable fee of €100, which will be deducted from the total tuition fee after enrolment.
Non-payment within this period will result in automatic exclusion of the candidate. No exceptions or late payments will be considered. Any payment made after the deadline will not be refunded, and the candidate will remain excluded.
The Department of Earth Sciences (DCT) at NOVA FCT constitutes a graduate, postgraduate and research teaching unit, currently organized into 3 scientific areas: Geology, Geological Engineering and Agroindustry.
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