Global Internship Program in Coimbra

Students in Portugal

Summary

Gain first-hand knowledge, connections, and international work experience through an academic internship in Coimbra, Portugal. On this program, you will:

  • Undertake a professional internship at Instituto Pedro Nunes, focusing on innovation and technology
  • Earn academic credit for the internship via a ten-week online course
  • Learn about Portuguese culture and history through an on-site course at the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Live with other program participants in a tranquil and historical seminary

About Coimbra

Coimbra is a riverfront city in western Portugal, just 130 miles north of Lisbon. The country's former capital is like a mini-Lisbon, containing all the highlights of urban life in a smaller population. Those interested in history, culture, and local markets will delight its medieval old town. Coimbra is known as a "city of students" thanks to its university- the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. It's also the most English-proficient city in the country.

Berkeley students in this program are eligible for a $5,000 Scholarship provided by the Institute of European Studies - Center for Portuguese Studies.You will be automatically considered, no application is necessary.

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Student Marta Vieira's Global Internship Experience in Coimbra

Fieldwork at Batalha, Portugal.

Spending six weeks in Coimbra, Portugal as part of a global internship and academic
program was a deeply enriching experience. I had the opportunity to take classes at the
University of Coimbra while interning at Instituto Pedro Nunes (IPN), alongside a small group of
fellow Berkley students. What stood out most was how seamlessly the coursework and internship
complemented each other. Our classes explored themes of globalization, which we then saw play
out in real-time through our work at IPN.
The in-person classes were truly the highlight of each week. The combination of lectures
and fieldwork encouraged critical thinking and allowed us to engage directly with our
environment.

One particularly memorable assignment involved keeping a structured notebook
which pushed us to reflect on our observations in thoughtful and creative ways.
At IPN, the atmosphere was calm, focused, and supportive. We were able to contribute
meaningfully without feeling overwhelmed, which made the experience both productive and
enjoyable. The seminary where we stayed was incredible. It provided the perfect environment for
learning, reflection, and connecting with each other.
The program broadened my academic perspective but also gave me valuable real-world
insight into international collaboration and innovation.