Founded in 1979, Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal (Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of Setúbal (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Setubal. This institution also has a branch campus in Barreiro. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior, Portugal (Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education of Portugal), Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal (IPS) is a medium-sized coeducational Portuguese higher education institution. Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal (IPS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study. This 42 years old Portuguese higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. IPS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.