Instituto Superior de Agronomia

The Instituto Superior de Agronomia (ISA) is the largest and oldest school of graduate and postgraduate degrees in Agricultural Sciences in Portugal, belonging to the prestigious University of Lisbon. With over 160 years of history, the institute is a leading center for research and innovation in the fields of agriculture, forestry, and food science. It offers a unique academic environment that combines historical tradition with cutting-edge scientific advancement.

Academics

The institute is organized into several specialized departments focusing on areas such as crop science, animal production, and environmental engineering. ISA is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, offering highly ranked programs in Viticulture and Enology, Landscape Architecture, and Forestry Engineering. The teaching methodology emphasizes a strong link between theoretical knowledge and practical application, often utilizing the school's extensive experimental farms and laboratories.

International Students

ISA provides a welcoming environment for international students through its dedicated Mobility and International Relations Office, which assists with integration and administrative processes. While many undergraduate courses are taught in Portuguese, the institute offers an increasing number of Master’s and PhD programs entirely in English to accommodate a diverse global student body. Students can participate in various organizations like the ISA Students Association, which organizes cultural events and field trips to help newcomers integrate into Portuguese life.

Campus & Location

The campus is located within the Tapada da Ajuda, a magnificent 100 hectare botanical park in the heart of Lisbon that features an astronomical observatory and a vibrant green landscape. Students benefit from a peaceful study environment while being only minutes away from the historic center of Lisbon and the lively riverside district of Belém. The campus is well connected by public buses and trams, providing easy access to the city’s famous cultural landmarks and Mediterranean coastline.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of ISA enjoy high employability rates due to the school’s strong reputation and its established partnerships with major agribusiness firms and environmental agencies. The university provides active career services, including job fairs and internship placement programs that connect students with industry leaders across Europe. Many alumni go on to lead successful careers in food production, sustainable resource management, or launch innovative startups within the growing Portuguese agrotech sector.