The model of the degree in higher education

Abstract

The relationship between higher education and the society has changed radically over time. However, the Portuguese university has shown itself to be reluctant to draw pedagogical conclusions from these changes. The basic graduate course continues to be long and textbook-based, restricted to one discipline and with little orientation towards a general education. Using the social sciences as a reference, this essay is a critique of the conservatism which is sustained by the old model of the professional degree.