The Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (IPVC) established in 1980 is a state-run, regional polytechnic institute of higher education in Portugal, whose aims are a qualified human, cultural, scientific, technical and professional training, to carry out necessary research to accomplish its mission and to cooperate with the regional community of Alto-Minho, particularly with its productive and entrepreneurial sectors. The IPVC is made up of six Schools offering undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses, very often in collaboration with national and international polytechnics and universities.