University of Minho, founded in 1973, is one of the then named "New Universities" that, at that time, deeply changed the landscape of higher education in Portugal.
Located in the region of Minho, known for its significant economic activity and by the youth of its population, University of Minho has played the role of development agent in the region.
The level of the scientific, technological and cultural activity of the University has granted its international recognition. Its students finish their degrees and diplomas with a universal perspective, acquiring a rich knowledge and experience that qualifies them over a broad range of competences for their professional activity, and assimilate this reality.
The reputation of University of Minho is reinforced by demonstrative projects, namely: formats the introduction of teaching methodologies, the offer of teaching typologies that address new audiences, the configuration of innovative interfaces, consistent with the scientific structure, and subject to entrepreneurial management.
Sport Service and sport program in University of Minho is recognised by Sports and Academic Authorities, at national and international level, by the excellence of the facilities, skilled and experienced staff, quality of service. Sport program is planned for the Academic community and is fully orientated to the needs and expectations of the Academic community: Students, Staff and Professors. In the Academic Year of 2013/2014, 9563 sports cards have been issued, representing 45.4% of the Academic community with a regular practise of sport in University of Minho sport facilities.
University of Minho Sports Service has been created in 1995, and since that, a large experience in organising national and international sport events has been developed: 1998 World University Futsal Championship, 2004 European Universities Volleyball Championship, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2007, 2012 and 2015 the final stage of Portuguese University Championships, Qualifying Tournament for the World FIFA Futsal Championship’04, 2006 European Universities Basketball Championship, 2008 World University Badminton Championship, 2009 European Universities Taekwondo Championship, 2011 European Universities Taekwondo Championship, 2012 World University Futsal Championship, 2012 World University Chess Championship, 2014 World University Handball Championship, 2015 European Universities Handball Championship, 2016 World University Karate Championship and 2018 World University Cycling Championship.
The Portuguese national federations of Basketball, Futsal, Handball, Badminton and Karate use on a regular base the University of Minho Sport facilities to host national and international events, as well as to prepare national teams for important events.
University of Minho was considered in 2017 the Most Active University in Europe, by EUSA. In 2016 was the second best European University. So far, the year of 2013 was the best year of University of Minho regarding sports activity. Amongst more than 400 Universities from 44 different countries, the University of Minho was considered the Best European University based on sports achievements and results in EUSA competitions.