A trailblazer both in the teaching and research in Psychology and Behaviour in Portugal, Ispa has been recognised and distinguished nationally and internationally for its excellent pedagogical and cultural programmes, its quality in scientific research and the relevance of its academic extension. Founded in 1962, the then Instituto Superior de Psicologia Aplicada has cemented its position as an indispensable reference in the Portuguese college education scene, having been the first university to ever teach Psychology in the country. In 2009, after broadening its educational offer to other areas of knowledge, it took on the name of ISPA - Instituto Universitário (dropping the abbreviation's meaning in the process as well).