The School of Health at the Polytechnic University of Viana do Castelo welcomed the first students of the new Physiotherapy degree, which is part of the educational offering for the 2026/2027 academic year. The welcome for new students took place simultaneously in Viana do Castelo, Santarém and Viseu, as the course is delivered in association by the three Polytechnic Universities.
The rector of UNIPVC, Carlos Rodrigues, highlighted the historic nature of the moment, reminding the students that they are "the first" and that they will go down in the institution's history. The director of the School of Health, Luís Graça, stated that the investment in Physiotherapy is linked to the increase in life expectancy and the need to ensure a better quality of life for the population.
The president of the Order of Physiotherapists, António Lopes, recalled that the profession has evolved beyond traditional rehabilitation, taking on a significant role in public health policies and primary healthcare. He also emphasised that it is a profession regulated throughout the European Union, which gives the training an international dimension.
The new degree results from a partnership between the Polytechnic Universities of Viana do Castelo, Santarém and Viseu, with the heads of the three institutions highlighting the joint work carried out to establish the programme and meet the need for professionals in the field.
