The general course aims to promote the acquisition of advanced knowledge in European, International and Comparative Legal Science. To this end, the study cycle aims to develop human resources capable of participating in advanced scientific research projects in European, International and Comparative Law with the epistemological and methodological rigor indispensable for international scientific research in Legal Science. The study cycle requires fundamental ethical practices and principles appropriate to legal science research, with a view to problem-solving from an ethical and responsible perspective, to ensure relevant scientific research for society. The study cycle includes an individual research project that in its term will be a demonstration of highly specialized knowledge, which supports the capacity for original reflection and research.

- Holders of a degree or legal equivalent in law; - Holders of a foreign academic degree conferred following a 1st cycle of studies in Law organized accordingly to the principles of Bologna; - Holders of a foreign academic degree recognized as meeting the objectives of a degree by the Scientific Board of the Portucalense University; - Holders of academic, scientific or professional CVs recognized by the Scientific Board of the Portucalense University as attesting the capacity to undertake this course. Candidates are ranked by criteria defined in the programme regulation of the course taking under consideration the academic training, professional development, publications and communications, research and participation in projects.