GROWTH THROUGH EDUCATION: A PERSPECTIVE RESEARCH ON SHORT-CYCLE PROGRAMS

This study examines the implementation and impact of Short-Cycle Technical Higher Education Programmes (Cursos Tcnicos Superiores Profissionais -CTeSP) at the Polytechnic University of Cvado and Ave (IPCA), located in the Minho region of northern Portugal.Drawing on document analysis and institutional data, the research explores how CTeSP respond to regional labour market demands, strengthen cooperation between higher education and industry, and promote social inclusion through flexible learning pathways.Between 2017 and 2020, IPCA developed over 8,000 internships in partnership with 2,650 companies-mainly small and medium-sized enterprises-demonstrating a strong alignment with the local economic profile.The results highlight the value of co-designed curricula, hybrid teaching models, and work-based learning in enhancing graduate employability.With 35% of students attending evening or part-time programmes, CTeSP show particular relevance for adult learners and non-traditional students.Despite the positive outcomes, challenges remain concerning the transferability of this model to less industrialised regions, its dependence on European funding, and the limited academic progression options.The study concludes with recommendations to support the sustainability and expansion of short-cycle higher education, including stable funding, enhanced vertical mobility, and context-sensitive replication of best practices.