.The Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave (IPCA) is a public institution of higher education, based in Barcelos. Created in 19994, the IPCA offers undergraduate courses, professional master's degrees, higher professional technical courses (CTeSP) and non-degree courses (post-graduate and specialization), in daytime, post-employment and distance learning. The IPCA is an institution that invests in teaching quality and excellence, as well as its affirmation in the national and international space.